8 Easy To Find Substitutes for Chorizo (Try These First)

When you’re in the mood for chorizo but don’t have any on hand, it’s time to get creative. Chorizo is a type of sausage that is popular in Mexican and Spanish cuisine. It can be substituted with other types of sausage or even bacon.

In this article, we’ll provide a list of chorizo substitutes and explain the differences and similarities between them so you can easily recreate your favorite recipes!

Substitutes for chorizo:

  1. Pepperoni
  2. Salami
  3. Bacon
  4. Other sausages
  5. Linguica
  6. Chickpeas
  7. Ground pork
  8. Andouille

Pepperoni

Pepperoni is a type of salami that is typically made from pork and beef. It is then seasoned with paprika and other spices like garlic, fennel seed, and chili pepper, and it has a spicy, chewy texture.

Pepperoni is often used as a pizza topping, but you can also use it as a substitute for chorizo. When used as a substitute, Pepperoni provides a similar mouthfeel to chorizo, but it is not as fatty.

Pepperoni is also seasoned with paprika and garlic, which gives it a similar flavor profile to chorizo. In addition, it is usually less expensive than chorizo, making it an ideal substitute for those on a budget.

Some dishes that you could use pepperoni as a substitute for chorizo in are pasta, pizza, pepperoni and cheese quesadillas, calzones, and soup.

Salami

Salami is a type of cured sausage that can be used as a substitute for chorizo in certain dishes. It is typically made from beef or pork, and it is flavored with garlic, spices, and wine. Salami is drier and firmer than chorizo, and it has a milder flavor.

In order to replicate the spiciness of chorizo, you may need to add paprika to your dish.

Salami also has a different texture than chorizo, so it may not be suitable for dishes where the sausage is meant to be highly visible. However, if you are looking for a less spicy alternative to chorizo, salami is a good option.

Bacon

Bacon is a great substitute for chorizo, and it’s easily available at most supermarkets. It is pork that has been cured and smoked, so it has a similar flavor to chorizo.

To give the bacon a more authentic flavor, you can add smoked paprika to it.

Bacon is also lower in fat than chorizo, so it’s a healthier option. Another benefit of using it as a substitute for chorizo is that it’s less expensive.

So if you’re looking for a delicious and affordable option, bacon is the way to go!

Other sausages

Other sausages can be used as a substitute for chorizo. This is because they have a similar taste and texture.

For example, if you are making a dish that requires the sausage to be cooked, such as paella or a stew, any type of sausage can be used. Similarly, if you are looking for a less spicy alternative, you can use a milder sausage like kielbasa.

The main difference is that chorizo is usually made with pork, while other sausages can be made with beef, chicken, or turkey.

You can use both dried and soft sausages as a substitute, depending on the dish you’re making. You can also replicate the flavor of chorizo by adding different spices, such as paprika or chili peppers.

Linguica

Linguica is a type of smoked pork sausage that originates from Portugal. It is made from pork butt that is seasoned with garlic, paprika, and other spices.

Linguica has a slightly smokier flavor than chorizo and is often used in dishes that call for the latter. In many cases, linguica can be used as a direct substitute for chorizo.

However, it is important to note that linguica is a bit spicier than chorizo, so you may want to use less of it if you are not a fan of spicy food.

Additionally, it must be cooked before it is eaten.

Chickpeas

Chickpeas are an excellent vegan alternative to chorizo. They have a similar texture and can be easily spiced with smoked paprika to create the same flavor profile.

Chickpeas are also a good source of protein and fiber, making them a healthier option than traditional chorizo.

When substituting chickpeas for chorizo, I recommend adding them to dishes that would normally be served with rice or potatoes. This will help to bulk up the dish and make it more filling.

Ground pork

Ground or minced pork is a great substitute for chorizo. In some cases, you might not be able to find chorizo or it might be too expensive.

To make it, simply grind up the pork and add smoked paprika and oil with a little bit of oil. This will make it taste almost exactly like chorizo.

Since ground pork has a different texture than chorizo, it might not be suitable for all recipes. But it is a great alternative if the dish you’re making is not too big on texture.

All in all, if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, ground pork is a great choice.

Andouille

Andouille is a type of smoked sausage made from ground pork. It is usually seasoned with garlic, pepper, and other spices, and then smoked over a fire.

Andouille has a very strong, sharp taste and is very smoky. It is also much spicier than chorizo. It is generally used in small amounts because of its strong flavor.

When substituting andouille for chorizo, it is important to use less andouille than you would chorizo, as the former is much stronger in flavor.

You can use it in any dish where you would use chorizo, such as in paella or on pizzas. You can also slice it into big rounds and use it as a replacement for chorizo on sandwiches or in salads.

FAQs

Is there a vegetarian substitute for chorizo?

There are a few vegetarian substitutes for chorizo. Some of the most popular substitutes are chickpeas, lentils, and Field Roast Frankfurters.

Each of these substitutes has a different texture and flavor profile than chorizo, so you might have to experiment with them to see which one works best for your dish.

What is the difference between chorizo and other sausages?

The main difference between chorizo and other sausages is that chorizo is usually made with pork, while other sausages can be made with beef, chicken, or turkey.

Additionally, chorizo is a bit spicier than most other sausages.

Can I use any type of sausage as a chorizo substitute?

Yes, you can use any type of sausage as a chorizo substitute, as long as it is seasoned with smoked paprika and other spices to replicate the chorizo flavor.

Are chorizo and salami the same?

Salami is a type of dry sausage that is made from beef, pork, or turkey. It is usually seasoned with salt, black pepper, and other spices. Chorizo is a type of dry sausage that is made from pork. It is usually seasoned with garlic, paprika, and other spices.

While chorizo and salami are both types of dry sausage, they are made from different meats and have different seasonings.

Conclusion

Whether you’re looking for a vegan, pork, or beef substitute, there is definitely an option out there that will work for you.

Chorizo is a very versatile sausage that can be substituted in many different dishes.

So don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with some of these substitutes to see which one works best for you.