Goan Chorizo Pao
Spicy, tangy Goan pork sausage cooked with onions and potatoes, stuffed into a soft pao bread roll. A quintessential Goan street food snack that's bursting with flavor and ready in minutes.
For 4 servings
4 steps. 20 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Sauté Aromatics
- b.Heat 1 tsp of vegetable oil in a heavy-bottomed pan or skillet over medium heat. Be mindful that the chorizo will release a lot of its own fat.
- c.Add the finely chopped onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they turn soft and translucent.
- d.Add the ginger paste, garlic paste, and slit green chilies. Continue to sauté for another minute until the raw aroma disappears.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Cook Potatoes and Chorizo
- b.Add the finely diced potatoes to the pan along with 60 ml (1/4 cup) of water.
- c.Cover the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the potatoes are about 80% cooked and tender-crisp.
- d.Add the crumbled Goan chorizo. Use a spatula to break it up further and mix it thoroughly with the onion and potato mixture.
- e.Cook uncovered for 6-8 minutes, stirring frequently. The chorizo will cook through and render its signature spicy, red oil.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Finish the Filling
- b.Once the chorizo is cooked and the fat has rendered, stir in the turmeric powder.
- c.Taste the mixture before adding salt. Add salt only if needed, as Goan chorizo is typically well-salted.
- d.Pour in the white vinegar and mix well. Allow it to cook for 1-2 minutes, which will mellow its sharp flavor and blend it into the filling.
- e.Turn off the heat and garnish with freshly chopped coriander leaves. Mix well.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Assemble and Serve
- b.Take the pao and slit them horizontally, keeping one edge intact like a hinge.
- c.For the best flavor, lightly toast the inside of the pao in the same pan, allowing it to soak up the flavorful residual chorizo oil.
- d.Generously stuff each toasted pao with the hot chorizo filling.
- e.Serve immediately for the best experience.
What to keep in mind.
6 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the most authentic flavor, source genuine Goan pork chorizo, which is distinct for its use of toddy vinegar and spices.
- 2To easily remove the casing, make a shallow slit along the length of the sausage link and peel it off.
- 3Dice the potatoes very small (about 0.5 cm cubes) to ensure they cook quickly and evenly with the chorizo.
- 4Always taste the filling before adding salt. The curing process for chorizo involves a lot of salt.
- 5Don't skip toasting the pao in the pan drippings; it adds an incredible layer of flavor to the bread.
- 6For a slightly tangier and richer filling, you can add one finely chopped tomato along with the onions.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add an Egg
Top the chorizo filling with a sunny-side-up or fried egg before closing the pao for a richer, more substantial meal.
Add VegetablesAdd Vegetables
Incorporate finely chopped bell peppers (capsicum) along with the onions for added color, crunch, and nutrition.
Vegetarian/Vegan VersionVegetarian/Vegan Version
Replace the Goan chorizo with crumbled firm tofu, soya granules, or finely chopped mushrooms. You will need to add more spices like paprika, cumin, and a bit more vinegar to mimic the flavor.
Cheesy Chorizo PaoCheesy Chorizo Pao
Sprinkle some grated mozzarella or cheddar cheese over the hot filling before serving and let it melt for a gooey, delicious twist.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Source of Protein
The pork chorizo provides a significant amount of protein, which is essential for muscle building, tissue repair, and overall body function.
Provides Energy
The carbohydrates from the potatoes and pao offer a quick source of energy, making this a filling and satisfying snack or meal.
Contains Alliums
Onions and garlic belong to the allium family, known for containing sulfur compounds that may have various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties.
Frequently asked questions
Goan Chorizo Pao is a delicious and indulgent dish, but it is high in calories, saturated fat, and sodium due to the processed pork sausage. It's best enjoyed in moderation as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of a health-focused diet.
