Chorizo, a Spanish and Portuguese sausage, originated in the Iberian Peninsula. Typically made from pork, sometimes it contains beef or chicken. Chorizo gets its distinctive spicy flavor from plenty of spices such as paprika, garlic, and vinegar.
Spanish chorizo is often dried and cured, giving it a firm texture. Like salami or pepperoni, it can be sliced and eaten without cooking. It’s commonly used for making tapas or sliced thin and added to sandwiches or salads.
Mexican chorizo, on the other hand, is typically fresh and uncooked. It’s made with ground pork and a similar blend of spices as Spanish chorizo but has a softer and more crumbly texture. Mexican chorizo commonly adds flavor to Mexican cooking. You can crumble and sauté it to add to dishes like tacos and burritos.
Vegans can also enjoy chorizo, typically made with plant-based ingredients like vegetables and legumes spiced to create real chorizo’s appearance, texture, and flavor. You can also enjoy chorizo’s bold and robust flavor as a vegan. Here are ideas for buying or making the best vegan chorizo.
Chorizo is prized for its bold and robust flavor, making it a popular addition to a wide range of dishes across various cuisines.
Top Vegan Chorizo Brands
Several vegan chorizo sausage brands are available in the US. Choosing the top one can vary depending on personal taste preferences. Here are a few of the best vegan chorizo brands based on consumer reviews:
Trader Joe’s Soy Chorizo – Trader Joe’s offers soy-based chorizo with excellent flavor and texture. It’s affordable and widely available at Trader Joe’s locations nationwide.
Field Roast Mexican Chipotle Sausage—Field Roast is known for its high-quality vegan meat alternatives, and its Mexican Chipotle sausage offers a spicy kick that mimics traditional chorizo flavors.
Tofurky Chorizo-Style Plant-Based Sausage—Tofurky’s chorizo-style sausage contains organic tofu and seasoned with authentic spices. It’s another popular vegan chorizo choice among those seeking a vegan alternative to traditional chorizo.
Beyond Meat Spicy Chorizo—Beyond Meat’s plant-based chorizo is a spicy and flavorful option that works well in various dishes, from tacos to breakfast tofu scrambles.
Lightlife Smart Sausages Chorizo—Lightlife’s chorizo-style sausages have a satisfying flavor profile, making them a popular plant-based chorizo to add to dishes.
It’s always good to check the ingredients list and nutritional information to determine whether the product meets your dietary preferences and needs.
A Delicious Meat-Free Alternative
Vegan chorizo is a plant-based substitute to traditional chorizo sausage. The best vegan chorizo contains vegetables, grains, legumes, and spices.
Common ingredients found in vegan chorizo include:
- Lentils
- Mushrooms
- Textured vegetable protein (TVP) or soy protein
- Bean varieties
- Tomatoes or tomato paste
- Onions
- Garlic
- Typical spices include paprika, cumin, chili powder, oregano, and coriander.
Make vegan chorizo into crumbles or sausage shapes and use it in various dishes, including tacos, burritos, quesadillas, pasta sauces, soups, and breakfast scrambles. Most vegan chorizo sausages need cooking before consuming, as they often contain ingredients like lentils, mushrooms, and spices that need cooking to enhance flavor and texture. Eating raw vegan chorizo might not provide the best taste or texture experience, and some ingredients may be more palatable or safer to consume after cooking.
However, check the product instructions because some vegan chorizo products may be more processed, making them suitable for eating without cooking.
Easy Vegan Chorizo Recipes
Making vegan chorizo for breakfast dishes, pizzas, paellas, snacks, wraps, and sandwiches is easy. In this recipe for Homemade Vegan Chorizo from Vegan on Board, you can make two chorizos in an hour and a half. Store them in the refrigerator for up to a week and a half.
Vital wheat gluten and soy mince are the two main ingredients for imitating the meaty texture of chorizo. Soy gives it a chewy texture, while vital wheat gluten firms it up. The ingredients that add flavor to the vegan chorizo are onion, garlic, paprika, cayenne pepper, mixed herbs, and soy sauce.
Mix the ingredients into a dough after adding the sauteed onion and garlic. Shape the ready dough, wrap it in parchment, and steam it until cooked. Once cooked, you can refrigerate it for a few hours before enjoying it in several ways.
Health Benefits of Vegan Chorizo
The health benefits of vegan chorizo vary depending on the ingredients used and its preparation methods. Here are some possible health benefits associated with eating vegan chorizo when enjoyed as part of a healthy diet:
- It has reduced saturated fat compared to traditional chorizo sausage, helping protect from heart disease and other health issues. The best vegan chorizo ingredients are plant-based, such as lentils, beans, and mushrooms, typically containing less saturated fat and cholesterol. It’s a healthier option for those concerned about heart health.
- Vegan chorizo can be a good source of plant-based protein if it contains lentils, beans, or textured vegetable protein (TVP). Protein aids muscle growth and repair.
- Many plant-based ingredients in vegan chorizo, such as lentils, beans, and vegetables, are rich in dietary fiber. Fiber assists with regular bowel movements and digestive health. It may help lower cholesterol levels and control blood sugar.
- Vegan chorizo provides several essential vitamins and minerals depending on the ingredients used. These include iron, zinc, potassium, and B vitamins, which help with energy metabolism, immune function, and red blood cell production.
- Some vegan chorizo recipes or products may contain less sodium than their traditional counterparts, benefiting overall health.
How to Cook Vegan Chorizo Perfectly
Cooking vegan chorizo is similar to cooking traditional chorizo. Use it in various dishes, from tacos and burritos to pasta sauces and breakfast scrambles. Here’s a general guide on how to cook vegan chorizo:
Prepare the vegan chorizo
If you’re using a pre-made vegan chorizo product, follow any package instructions for preparation, such as thawing if frozen. If you’re making homemade vegan chorizo, prepare the mixture according to your chosen recipe.
Cook the vegan chorizo
Heat a pan over medium heat. You can add a small amount of oil if desired, although vegan chorizo typically contains enough moisture from ingredients like mushrooms or onions.
Add the vegan chorizo to the hot pan. Break up large portions with a spoon and spread the mixture evenly in the pan. Cook the chorizo, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through and starting to brown – about 5-7 minutes.
Taste the vegan chorizo and adjust the seasoning if necessary by adding more spices, salt, or pepper.
Incorporate vegan chorizo into dishes
Here’s how to incorporate the best vegan chorizo into dishes once it’s cooked:
- Spoon the cooked chorizo into tortillas along with your favorite toppings like salsa, guacamole, and shredded lettuce for tacos or burritos.
- Add the cooked chorizo to your sauce or other ingredients and simmer until heated through for pasta dishes.
- Add the vegan chorizo sliced or crumbled onto pizzas.
- Add the cooked chorizo to a skillet along with tofu or scrambled eggs, vegetables, and any other desired ingredients for breakfast scrambles.
Serve and enjoy!
Vegan Chorizo Tacos: A Flavorful Twist
You can use ready-made vegan chorizo to make tacos, but you can also make a delicious mix with seasoning to make them in about 30 minutes.
Here are two excellent ideas from Connoisseurus Veg or Dishing Out Health. The first uses tofu and chopped walnuts, and the second uses mushrooms, chickpeas, and walnuts. Walnuts add texture and contain plant-based omega-3 fatty acids, magnesium, plant antioxidants, and vitamin E. You can also use pecan nuts if you don’t have walnuts or replace the nuts with sunflower seeds if you are not eating nuts.
After preparing the best vegan chorizo mix recipes, fill your corn tortillas and serve them with the toppings you prefer.
Discovering the Best Vegan Chorizo Options
Discovering the best vegan chorizo options involves research, tasting, and personal preference.
The brands mentioned earlier are all excellent chorizo choices. However, here are some easy steps to follow if you can’t find these in your region:
- Research reviews and recommendations online for vegan chorizo brands and products by reading websites, food blogs, and social media platforms. Pay attention to reviews and comments about flavor, texture, and overall quality.
- Check ingredient lists to establish the ingredients and spices used.
- Many specialty and health food stores carry several vegan products, including chorizo alternatives. Ask staff for recommendations if you are unsure.
- Try different brands of vegan chorizo to try, comparing flavors, textures, and overall satisfaction.
- Ask others for recommendations or join online communities for valuable suggestions based on their experiences.
- Attend vegan food festivals or events for the opportunity to taste a variety of options and discover new favorites.
Exploring Vegan Chorizo’s Versatility
Whether you buy or make the best vegan chorizo, it’s a versatile addition to several meals. Here are some delicious ways to use it:
Tacos and Burritos—Fill tacos and burritos with vegan chorizo. Sauté the chorizo until heated through, then spoon it into warmed tortillas along with your favorite toppings.
Pasta Dishes – Incorporate vegan chorizo into pasta dishes for added flavor and protein. Toss cooked chorizo with spaghetti or penne, marinara sauce, roasted vegetables, and fresh herbs for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Pizza Toppings – Crumble vegan chorizo onto homemade or store-bought pizza crusts with other ingredients to make a tasty and flavorful topping.
Stuffed Peppers – Fill bell peppers with cooked vegan chorizo, rice, black beans, corn, and spices. Bake until tender and cooked through.
Breakfast Dishes – Add vegan chorizo to breakfast dishes such as tofu scrambles, burritos, or sandwiches.
Stuffed Mushrooms – Remove the stems from large mushrooms and fill them with a mixture of cooked vegan chorizo, breadcrumbs, vegan cheese, and herbs. Bake the mushrooms until tender and golden brown.
Chili – Add vegan chorizo to your favorite recipe for spiciness and protein.
Stir-Fries, Paella, Soups, and Stews – Incorporate vegan chorizo into these dishes for added flavor.
Dips and Spreads – Blend cooked vegan chorizo with other ingredients until smooth and creamy.
Now that you know how to use vegan chorizo, use it to spice up any meal!
Navigating Vegan Chorizo Choices: Tips for Beginners
Embracing a vegan diet doesn’t mean you have to give up on enjoying the rich, spicy flavors traditionally found in dishes like chorizo. Vegan chorizo offers a fantastic plant-based alternative to spice meals without animal products. For those new to vegan chorizo, here are some tips to help you choose and enjoy this versatile ingredient:
- Understand the Varieties: Vegan chorizo can be made from a wide array of ingredients, including soy, lentils, and mushrooms. Each type brings a different texture and flavor. Soy-based chorizo often closely mimics the texture of traditional chorizo, making it a favorite for those who want a similar mouthfeel. Mushroom and lentil-based versions offer a unique taste and are perfect for those looking for something a bit different.
- Check the Labels: Always read the ingredient list and nutrition facts when selecting vegan chorizo. Look for products with minimal processed ingredients and additives. This helps ensure you choose a healthier option that still packs the bold chorizo flavor you want.
- Cooking Tips: Vegan chorizo is versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. Proper cooking enhances its flavor and texture. For sautéing, add a little oil to your pan and cook the chorizo until it’s crispy on the edges. This mimics the texture of cooked traditional chorizo and enhances its flavor.
- Spice it Up: You might want to add extra spices depending on your taste preferences. Many vegan chorizos come pre-seasoned, but adding a bit of smoked paprika, cumin, or chili powder can enhance the flavor and bring it closer to traditional chorizo.
- Experiment in Recipes: Use vegan chorizo as a substitute in any recipe that calls for traditional chorizo. It’s great in tacos, paellas, and pizza toppings. Its robust flavor makes it a great addition to vegan chili or stuffed peppers.
- Storage Solutions: Store vegan chorizo correctly to maintain its quality and flavor. Check the product’s shelf life and storage instructions if it is unopened. Once opened, store it in the refrigerator and use it within a few days. You can also freeze it to extend its shelf life for use in future recipes.
- Taste Test Different Brands: With so many brands on the market, it’s worth trying a variety of vegan chorizo to find your favorite. Each brand will have a slightly different spice blend and texture, giving you plenty of options for your cooking needs.
By following these tips, you can seamlessly integrate vegan chorizo into your meals, ensuring you enjoy all the spicy goodness of traditional chorizo in a compassionate, plant-based way. Whether whipping up a quick taco night or a cozy paella, vegan chorizo can make your dishes vibrant and satisfying.
