Spanish Word for Hard Pork Sausage

The Spanish word "chorizo" means hard pork sausage in English.

Chorizo is eaten in many recipes by the Spanish. It is made from coarsely fatty pork and usually seasoned with paprika and garlic, the former giving it its characteristic flavor. Chorizo comes in picante (hot) form or dulce (sweet) form, the latter contains guindillas secas (small dried hot chilies). These delicious sausages are used extensively in Spanish cooking.

Chorizo comes in many sizes and varieties, so much so that a complete mouthwatering book could be written on the subject. Some chorizos are served whole whilst others are sliced either finely or coarsely. There are some that are better eaten cold, and others that are ideal when they are fried or boiled. Some are great in stews and bean dishes. Even though there are some varieties that are better than others, it can safely be said that they are all delicious. Chorizo ibérico is very highly regarded. Traditionally, the best chorizo comes from La Rioja, even more famous for its wines. Dishes a la riojana always contain chorizo.

Chorizo is also the name that is given to petty thieves, pickpockets, and bag-snatchers!