If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dish that brings authentic Portuguese flavors straight to your table, look no further than Portuguese Chourico and Peppers. This slow-cooked classic combines smoky sausage, sweet onions, and tender peppers in a rich tomato and wine sauce. It’s the kind of recipe that fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas and makes dinnertime unforgettable.
What is Portuguese Chourico and Peppers?
Portuguese Chourico and Peppers is a traditional dish featuring chourico sausage—a smoky, garlicky pork sausage seasoned with paprika and spices. Unlike Spanish chorizo, Portuguese chourico tends to be less spicy but richer in flavor. When slow-cooked with onions, bell peppers, garlic, tomato paste, and red wine, the sausage infuses everything with deep, savory notes.
This recipe is often served over rice or tucked inside fresh Portuguese rolls, making it perfect for both family meals and gatherings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into this delicious slow cooker recipe:
- 2 pounds chourico sausage, casings removed and crumbled
- 2 green bell peppers, seeded and chopped
- 2 sweet onions, peeled and chopped
- 1 (6-ounce) can tomato paste
- 1 cup red wine
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons crushed garlic
Choosing the Right Chourico
Look for authentic Portuguese chourico at your local butcher or specialty market. If unavailable, linguica (another Portuguese sausage) or even smoked kielbasa can be used as a substitute.
Why Wine and Tomato Paste Matter
The red wine adds depth and richness to the sauce, while the tomato paste thickens it and balances the smokiness of the sausage.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps for a no-fuss, flavorful dish:
- In a slow cooker, add the chourico, bell peppers, onions, tomato paste, red wine, water, and garlic.
- Stir everything together until well combined.
- Cover and cook on Low for 8 hours.
- Remove the lid and cook an additional 2 hours to reduce liquid and intensify flavors.
- Serve hot over rice or inside Portuguese rolls.
Optional Tip: For extra flavor, brown the chourico in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker.
Serving Suggestions
There are many ways to enjoy this dish:
- Over rice – Classic pairing with fluffy white rice or arroz branco.
- With Portuguese rolls – Spoon the mixture into crusty bread rolls for hearty sandwiches.
- As a stew – Add potatoes or beans for a fuller meal.
Tips for Making the Best Portuguese Chourico and Peppers
- Use fresh peppers and onions for maximum sweetness.
- Don’t skip the garlic—it’s the heart of Portuguese cooking.
- Cook long and slow to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day as the spices deepen.
Variations and Substitutions
- Swap green bell peppers for red or yellow for a sweeter taste.
- Use Portuguese red wine (like Vinho Tinto) for authenticity.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you prefer heat.
- For a lighter option, try chicken sausage instead of pork.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make Portuguese Chourico and Peppers without wine?
Yes. Simply replace the wine with chicken broth or extra water.
Q: What’s the difference between chourico and linguica?
Both are Portuguese sausages, but chourico is smokier and more heavily spiced, while linguica is milder and slightly sweeter.
Q: Can I cook this on high for less time?
Yes. Cook on High for 4–5 hours, but the flavors develop best when cooked slowly.
Q: What sides go well with this dish?
Rice, roasted potatoes, Portuguese rolls, or even a simple green salad pair beautifully.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 420
- Protein: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fat: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Portuguese Chourico and Peppers recipe is:
- Authentic and packed with traditional Iberian flavors
- Easy to prepare with simple, wholesome ingredients
- Perfect for meal prep, family dinners, or gatherings
- Adaptable with plenty of variation options
Final Thoughts
Portuguese cuisine is all about warmth, comfort, and family. With its smoky sausage, sweet peppers, and rich sauce, this Chourico and Peppers recipe embodies everything we love about hearty home cooking. Whether you serve it over rice or tucked into rolls, it’s a dish that will have everyone asking for seconds.
