Are you craving a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner? Look no further! This Spicy Shrimp and Chorizo Soup, inspired by the culinary genius of Bobby Flay, is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's a vibrant blend of smoky chorizo, succulent shrimp, and a fiery kick that will tantalize your taste buds. This easy recipe is perfect for both beginner cooks and experienced chefs alike, promising a delicious and satisfying homemade meal in under 30 minutes. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this stunningly simple yet sophisticated dish!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound chorizo sausage, casings removed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, chopped
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (or more, to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon cumin
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Lime wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
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Sauté the Chorizo: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chorizo and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and slightly crispy. Remove the chorizo from the pot and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion and bell pepper to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Build the Flavor: Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), chicken broth, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and cumin to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
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Add Shrimp and Chorizo: Gently stir in the cooked chorizo and shrimp. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the shrimp is pink and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp.
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Season and Garnish: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the fresh cilantro.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve immediately. Garnish with a lime wedge, if desired.
Cooking Tips for the Best Soup:
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preference. For a milder soup, use less; for a fiery kick, add more!
- Don't overcook the shrimp: Overcooked shrimp becomes tough and rubbery. Cook it just until it turns pink and opaque.
- Fresh is best: Using fresh cilantro adds a vibrant flavor and aroma. If fresh cilantro isn't available, you can substitute with 1 tablespoon of dried cilantro.
- Make it a meal: Serve with crusty bread for dipping to soak up all that delicious broth.
Variations:
- Add different vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, corn, or spinach.
- Use different protein: Substitute the shrimp with chicken, fish, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Creamy version: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier soup.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 15-20g
This Spicy Shrimp and Chorizo Soup is a perfect example of delicious and healthy food recipes that are easy to make. It’s a quick dinner idea, perfect for busy weeknights, and a testament to the power of homemade cooking. Enjoy this flavorful and satisfying dish!