The etiquette rules on how to serve and eat chorizo. Tips to be the ideal host or the perfect guest and avoid any embarrassment.

What chorizo etiquette is

Chorizo etiquette is the set of rules to properly serve and eat chorizo. Such rules help avoid behaviors that can disrespect your hosts or guests, or make you look unpolite.

If you are hosting, follow the etiquette to serve chorizo to your guests appropriately.

As a guest, respect the etiquette rules to properly eat chorizo at the dining table and avoid offending your hosts or embarrassing yourself.

What you should know about chorizo

Chorizo is a type of sausage that originated in Spain and is now popular in many other countries, including Mexico and Portugal. It is made from ground pork or a combination of pork and beef, seasoned with a variety of spices, and stuffed into a casing.

Chorizo typically has a reddish-brown color and a slightly curved shape. It can be either soft or hard, depending on the variety. The texture is usually firm and slightly crumbly, and the flavor is often described as spicy and smoky, with a hint of sweetness.

Etiquette rules to serve and eat chorizo

1) How to store chorizo

The ideal temperature to store chorizo is in a cool, dry place, between 50-70°F (10-21°C). In the pantry, you can store it in a paper or cloth bag or hang it from a hook. To store chorizo in the fridge, wrap it in plastic or place it in an airtight container. You can also freeze chorizo for up to 6 months. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe container.

Store sliced or cooked chorizo in an airtight container in the fridge and consume it within 3-5 days.

2) How to clean chorizo

Chorizo should be cleaned by wiping it with a dry paper towel or cloth to remove any excess moisture. There is a risk of contamination if the chorizo is not handled properly, so it is important to wash your hands and any utensils or surfaces that come into contact with the sausage.

Signs that chorizo has turned bad include a sour or rancid smell, a slimy or discolored appearance, or mold growth.

3) How to prepare & cook chorizo

Chorizo can be eaten raw or cooked, depending on the variety. To prepare chorizo for cooking, you should slice or remove it from the casing and cook it in a skillet or on the grill. Common ways to cook chorizo include frying, grilling, or baking. A cast-iron skillet or griddle is ideal for cooking chorizo.

Chorizo is a common ingredient in dishes such as paella, tacos, burritos, and stews. Other popular dishes include chorizo and egg breakfast burritos, chorizo and potato tacos, and chorizo and bean soup.

You can use chorizo in salads and sandwiches too. Chorizo is not suitable for vegan, keto, or paleo diets, as it contains pork and often includes added sugars and preservatives. Furthermore, some guests may be unable to eat chorizo due to religious dietary restrictions.

4) How to serve & present chorizo

Chorizo is appropriate for both formal and informal meals. You can serve it as a side dish, main course, appetizer, or snack. It is common to serve it as part of a tapas spread or as a topping for pizza.

It is best to serve chorizo at room temperature or slightly warm. Present it on a platter or in a small dish, along with bread or crackers. Serving utensils such as tongs or a small fork are recommended.

You can serve chorizo with a variety of seasonings, such as garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, and vinegar. Ideal accompaniments include bread, olives, and pickled vegetables.

5) Food and wine to pair chorizo with

Chorizo pairs well with vegetables such as peppers, onions, and tomatoes, as well as fruits like apples and figs. It is not common to pair it with leafy greens or citrus fruits.

Chorizo can be paired with cheese and dairy, such as Manchego cheese or sour cream. It is best to avoid pairing chorizo with soft cheeses or heavy cream.

Chorizo pairs well with various meats such as pork, beef, and chicken. You can also use it as a flavor enhancer for stews and casseroles. As for fish, chorizo goes well with oily fish such as salmon or tuna, but it may overpower milder fish such as cod or sole.

When it comes to wine pairings, red wine such as Tempranillo or Rioja from Spain is a classic pairing with chorizo. For white wine, Albariño or Rueda are good choices. Rosé wine can also be a good match, as well as sparkling wine or beer. Avoid overly sweet wines or ones with too much oak influence, which can clash with the spicy and smoky flavors of chorizo.

6) How to eat chorizo

It is polite to slice chorizo and eat it with a fork and knife. Eating it with your fingers is also acceptable in a casual setting. The casing of the chorizo should be removed before eating, but the rest of the chorizo can be eaten.

Chorizo etiquette: the worst mistakes

Avoid the most common chorizo etiquette mistakes:

• 6/10. Not properly removing the casing before serving.
• 6/10. Not slicing chorizo thinly enough.
• 6/10. Not providing a plate for the discarded casing.

Additional information for properly serving chorizo

How many calories per serving?

Counting calories is important to stay healthy and correctly plan a menu.

The number of calories in chorizo can vary depending on the type and brand. On average, one serving (about 1 ounce or 28 grams) contains around 100-120 calories.

How to buy the best chorizo

A crucial factor in chorizo etiquette is serving your guests the best product possible.

Season and availability 

Chorizo is typically available year-round. The best season to buy it may depend on the region and the type of chorizo. In Spain, chorizo is commonly produced in the winter months.

Choose the best

Chorizo can be found in various forms in commerce, including fresh, cured, and dried. It may be sold in links or sliced, and can also be found canned or in other processed forms.

The most popular varieties of chorizo in commerce can vary depending on the region. In Spain, the most prized types of chorizo include chorizo de Pamplona, chorizo de Teruel, and chorizo de León. In Mexico, chorizo verde and chorizo rojo are popular varieties.

When buying chorizo, look for a firm texture and a rich, reddish color. The casing should not be cracked or damaged. Reading labels can also help identify high-quality chorizo that uses natural ingredients and traditional methods.

Alternatives to chorizo

Some common alternatives to chorizo include other cured sausages such as salami, pepperoni, or even bacon. Vegetarian and vegan alternatives to chorizo can also be found, often made from tofu or tempeh.

Resources

• Development of an Iberian Chorizo Salted With a Combination of Mineral Salts (Seawater Substitute) and Better Nutritional Profile: frontiersin.org