Other
chorizo.
VegetarianVeganGluten-freeDairy-freeNut-freePeanut-freeSoy-freeEgg-freeShellfish-freeHoney-freeAlcohol-freeHalalKosherFermented
SERVING
CALORIES
450
PROTEIN
19.8g
CARBS
2.1g
FAT
39.8g
FIBER
0g
NUTRITION PROFILE · per 100 g
Everything in this ingredient.
MACRONUTRIENTS
Calories450kcal—
Protein19.8g40%
Carbohydrates2.1g1%
Fiber0g0%
Sugar0g0%
Total fat39.8g51%
Saturated fat14.1g71%
Trans fat0.12g—
Cholesterol106mg35%
Water35.8g—
MINERALS
Sodium1200mg52%
Potassium290mg6%
Calcium18mg1%
Iron1.8mg10%
Magnesium20mg5%
Phosphorus149mg12%
Zinc1.7mg15%
Copper0.08mg9%
Manganese0.09mg4%
Selenium18.6µg34%
VITAMINS
Vitamin A0µg0%
Vitamin C0mg0%
Vitamin D0.50µg3%
Vitamin E0.22mg1%
Vitamin K0µg0%
Thiamin (B1)0.21mg18%
Riboflavin (B2)0.31mg24%
Niacin (B3)5.5mg34%
Vitamin B60.31mg18%
Folate (B9)0µg0%
Vitamin B122.0µg83%
%DV based on a 2,000 cal diet. Source: USDA FoodData Central. A dash in the %DV column means there’s no established Daily Value for that nutrient.
MEASUREMENT CONVERSIONS
How much is what.
1 cup160g
1 tablespoon10g
1 oz28.4g
1 lb453.6g
HEALTH BENEFITS
Why eat it.
- ✓Rich source of complete protein, essential for muscle building and repair.
- ✓Provides significant amounts of B vitamins, particularly B12 and niacin, which support energy metabolism and nervous system function.
- ✓Good source of selenium, an antioxidant mineral that helps protect cells from damage and supports thyroid health.
- ✓The paprika and chili used for seasoning contain capsaicin, which may have anti-inflammatory and metabolism-boosting properties.
COOKING TIPS
In the kitchen.
- 1For fresh chorizo, remove the casing before cooking. Crumble and cook in a skillet over medium heat until browned, draining off excess fat.
- 2Slice cured chorizo and pan-fry lightly to render its flavorful, paprika-infused oil, which can then be used to cook other ingredients.
- 3The rendered fat from any chorizo is packed with flavor; use it to sauté onions, garlic, or potatoes for an extra dimension of taste.
- 4Chorizo pairs exceptionally well with eggs, potatoes, beans, and seafood like shrimp, clams, or mussels.
STORAGE
Keep it fresh.
- Store fresh (Mexican-style) chorizo in the refrigerator and use within one week, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Keep cured (Spanish-style) chorizo in a cool, dry place like a pantry. Once opened, wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 weeks.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions.
Is chorizo healthy?
Chorizo is a rich source of complete protein and essential B vitamins, but it is also high in calories, sodium, and saturated fat. While it provides beneficial minerals like selenium and metabolism-boosting capsaicin from peppers, it should be consumed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
How much protein and fat are in chorizo?
A 100g serving of chorizo contains approximately 19.8g of protein and 39.8g of fat. While it is an excellent source of protein for muscle repair, its high fat content contributes to a significant calorie density of about 450 calories per 100g.
Is chorizo keto-friendly?
Yes, chorizo is highly keto-friendly because it is high in fat and very low in carbohydrates, containing only about 2.1g of carbs per 100g. It fits well into a high-fat, low-carb lifestyle, though you should always check labels for any added sugars or fillers.
What is the difference between Spanish and Mexican chorizo?
Mexican chorizo is usually fresh, raw pork that must be cooked before eating and is seasoned with vinegar and chili peppers. Spanish chorizo is cured and smoked, flavored with pimentón (smoked paprika), and can often be eaten sliced without further cooking.
Do I need to cook chorizo before eating it?
It depends on the variety. Mexican chorizo is raw meat and must be thoroughly cooked until browned and crumbly. Cured Spanish chorizo is fermented and dried, making it safe to eat raw, though it is often cooked to release its flavorful oils into a dish.
Is chorizo gluten-free?
While the primary ingredients of meat and spices are naturally gluten-free, some commercial brands may use wheat-based fillers or cross-contaminated spices. Always check the packaging for a gluten-free certification if you have a strict dietary restriction.
How do you store chorizo and how long does it last?
Fresh Mexican chorizo should be kept in the refrigerator and used within 1-2 days. Cured Spanish chorizo can last for several weeks in the fridge; once sliced, wrap it tightly in parchment or plastic wrap to prevent it from drying out.
Can I freeze chorizo?
Yes, both fresh and cured chorizo freeze very well. To maintain the best quality, wrap the chorizo tightly in freezer-safe packaging to prevent freezer burn; it will stay good for up to 3 months.
What does chorizo taste like?
Chorizo has a bold, savory, and smoky flavor profile with a distinct tang. It is heavily seasoned with garlic and either chili peppers or smoked paprika, which gives it a characteristic deep red color and a spicy, aromatic kick.
Is chorizo good for weight loss?
Because it contains 450 calories per 100g, chorizo is not a low-calorie food. However, its high protein content can help with satiety, so using small amounts to add intense flavor to vegetables or eggs can be a strategy for a weight-loss diet.
RECIPES
Cook with chorizo.
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