How to Eat Chorizo │ The Best Mexican Recipes with Chorizo

I have beautiful memories of my childhood, gathering with family in my abuelitos’ sunny dining room for breakfast. My abuela had passed away long ago, and a very kind lady named Doña Rafaela used to cook for us. I always asked for over-easy eggs with Mexican chorizo. I loved how the runny yolk mixed with the spicy ground pork chorizo—it’s truly a divine pleasure.

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What is Chorizo?

Mexican chorizo is seasoned raw meat from pork, beef, or soy, seasoned with a flavorful adobo made from chile peppers, spices, and vinegar. This delicious ingredient is a staple in Mexican cuisine, offering a smoky, spicy flavor that enhances a wide range of dishes. There are different types of chorizo, each bringing its unique taste and texture:

• Pork Chorizo: The traditional and most popular version.
• Beef Chorizo: Another flavorful option.
• Soy Chorizo: A vegetarian alternative that still packs a punch.
• Chicken Chorizo: A lighter option, recently popularized by brands like V&V Supremo.

I tested 7 of the most popular chorizo brands in the USA to determine the best option. Check out my outcome!

Are Mexican and Spanish Chorizo the Same?

Mexican chorizo is quite different from its Spanish counterpart. While Spanish chorizo resembles pepperoni or salami, similar to a spicy sausage, with a firm texture and smoky paprika flavor. Mexican chorizo is made with fresh ground meat and crumbles when cooked. The rich blend of regional ingredients gives Mexican chorizo its distinct and robust taste, making it a versatile product in various dishes.

How to Cook Raw Mexican Chorizo

• To cook raw Mexican chorizo, start by cutting one end of the chorizo link and push the fresh meat into a pan.
• Since Mexican chorizo is rich in fat, you don’t need to add any additional oil.

• Cook the chorizo over medium-high heat for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring often.
• You’ll know it’s ready when it turns from a bright red to a deep, dark red and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Where Can I Buy Mexican Chorizo?

Nowadays, it’s easy to find high-quality Mexican chorizo in the United States. While you can make it from scratch, many Mexican households opt for store-bought chorizo, which offers great quality and convenience. I’ve reviewed 8 different chorizo brands—check out my recommendations in this post.

What is Chorizo’s Shelf Life?

Store-bought chorizo typically has a shelf life of up to two months, but you can extend it by freezing it for later use up to three months. Homemade raw chorizo, on the other hand, lasts about 5 to 6 days in the refrigerator, so be sure to use it promptly.

I hope these recipes inspire you to cook delicious Mexican meals with the traditional taste of Mexican-style chorizo. Whether you’re making breakfast tacos, a spicy chorizo omelette, or a chorizo paella, the versatility of chorizo sausage makes it a favorite meal for any occasion.

Delicious Mexican Recipes with Chorizo

I’m excited to share with you my favorite Mexican recipes using chorizo. These recipes showcase my favorite ways to use this versatile sausage, and you can find them all on my blog.

• Tacos de Canasta: These popular Mexican tacos from Mexico City are a true delight. The traditional filling includes mashed potatoes with chorizo, covered in oil infused with guajillo chiles and onions—a delicious way to enjoy chorizo. Here’s the recipe.

• Huevos con Chorizo: Start your day with this classic Mexican breakfast dish—huevos revueltos with chorizo. The spicy sausage pairs perfectly with eggs, making it a great addition to your morning routine Here is the Recipe.

• Huevos Rancheros con Chorizo: If you prefer fried eggs, these huevos rancheros with chorizo are a fantastic option. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, they’re perfect for breakfast or brunch Here is the Recipe.

• Pambazos: One of Mexico’s most beloved street foods, pambazos are a must-try. A crusty bread roll is filled with potatoes and chorizo, dipped in a guajillo sauce, then fried and topped with fresh lettuce, crema, raw salsa verde, and queso fresco or cotija. This hearty dinner is sure to satisfy Here is the Recipe.

• Burritos de Huevo con Chorizo: As a proud girl from Chihuahua, I can’t resist breakfast, lunch, or dinner burritos. These burritos, filled with beans and huevos con chorizo, are perfect for a meal on the go—bold flavors and a satisfying filling Here is the Recipe.

• Grilling Chorizo: In the southern regions of Mexico, chorizo is an essential element for carnes asadas (grilled meats). This type of chorizo is often packed in natural casings, making it ideal for grilling over charcoal. This grilling method is commonly used for making delicious chorizo tacos.