Linguica is a Portuguese sausage known for its rich, smoky flavor. It’s also incredibly versatile, popping up in all sorts of dishes and cuisines.
This article explores a range of linguica recipes, from traditional preparations to some fun, adaptable ideas. We’ll cover classics like linguica with peppers and onions, and even dive into a Cape Verdean-style linguica dish.
Get ready to discover some new ways to enjoy this delicious sausage!
What is linguica?
Linguica is a Portuguese smoked sausage with a distinctive spicy flavor. You’ll find it in a lot of Portuguese and Cape Verdean cooking.
Sometimes people use the words “linguica” and “chouriço” to mean the same thing, but they’re technically different sausages. Linguica is generally made from pork and flavored with garlic and paprika. Chouriço may include other meats and spices, depending on the recipe.
However, both sausages are super versatile and can be used in a ton of dishes.
Traditional Linguica, Peppers, and Onions
This dish is a crowd-pleaser for a reason. It’s easy to make, and it’s packed with flavor. Here’s how you do it.
Ingredients
- Linguica or chouriço (about a pound)
- One large onion
- Two bell peppers (any color)
- A few cloves of garlic
- A dollop of tomato paste
- Olive oil
- Beer, wine, or water (about a cup)
- Spices: paprika, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder
Instructions
- Slice the linguica into half-moons about 1/4 inch thick.
- Slice the onions and peppers into strips.
- Heat some olive oil in a large pan, then sauté the onions and peppers until they’re soft.
- Add the sliced linguica and minced garlic and cook until the sausage is browned.
- Stir in the tomato paste and spices.
- Add beer, wine, or water and simmer until the liquid has reduced slightly.
Tips and Variations
Feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your tastes. If you don’t have linguica, you can use any type of smoked sausage. And if you don’t have all the spices on hand, just use what you like.
Serve this dish on sandwiches or over rice. It’s also great with a side of potatoes or a simple salad.
Cape Verdean-Style Linguica with Onions and Peppers
This recipe is based on my grandmother’s version of linguica, which she made for our family for generations. It’s a simple dish but full of flavor, and it always brings back happy memories.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound linguica or chourico, sliced
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium tomato, chopped
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 cup water
- Optional: 1 packet sazon (with saffron)
Preparation:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and peppers and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add linguica and garlic and cook for another 3-5 minutes, until linguica is lightly browned.
- Stir in tomato paste, spices, and water. Break up the tomato with a wooden spoon to help it cook down faster.
- Simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your liking. Adjust the amount of tomato paste to achieve your desired sauce consistency.
Serving Suggestions:
This dish is incredibly versatile! Here are a few ways you can enjoy it:
- Serve over rice for a hearty and satisfying meal.
- Serve with eggs for a flavorful breakfast or brunch.
- Serve in a Portuguese roll for a delicious sandwich.
- Serve with Cape Verdean Cuscuz for a traditional Cape Verdean experience.
Putting It All Together
As you can see, linguica is a versatile ingredient that can be adapted to all kinds of tastes and cuisines. Whether you like it spicy or mild, Portuguese or Cape Verdean, there’s a linguica recipe out there for you.
I encourage you to try out some of the recipes I’ve shared and experiment with your own variations. With its delicious flavor and rich cultural history, linguica is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.