Chourico Picante, Iberian Pork (Spicy)

​Chouriço picante, a staple of Portuguese cuisine, is a spiced pork sausage known for its distinctive flavour and cultural significance. Traditionally crafted from black pork, a breed native to Portugal’s Alentejo region, “chouriço” has been savoured for centuries. The black pork’s unique genetics and free-range diet, rich in acorns, contribute to the meat’s exceptional taste and quality. A fun fact: in Portugal, it’s common to flambé chouriço with aguardente, a local brandy, using a traditional ceramic grill, enhancing its smoky aroma and flavour. ​

Visually, chouriço picante presents a deep reddish hue, attributed to the paprika and spices infused during preparation. Its firm texture encases a well-marbled interior, reflecting the black pork’s natural fat distribution. Upon slicing, it releases a robust, spicy aroma with hints of garlic and smoked paprika. The taste is a harmonious blend of savoury pork, piquant spices, and a subtle smokiness, delivering a mildly spicy kick that lingers pleasantly on the palate.​

To complement the bold flavours of chouriço picante, consider pairing it with a semi-hard cheese like Manchego. The cheese’s nutty undertones and firm texture balance the sausage’s spiciness, creating a delightful contrast. Enjoy this pairing with crusty bread and a glass of robust red wine for a truly authentic Iberian experience.​