Introduction

Welcome back to Iberian Caribbean Kitchen! Today, we’re diving into a recipe that marries the vibrant flavors of Portuguese cuisine with the hearty tradition of a seafood boil. This Portuguese-Inspired Seafood Boil with Chorizo is a celebration of fresh seafood, smoky chorizo, and bold seasonings that will transport you straight to the coasts of Portugal.

Ingredients

For the Seafood Boil:

• 2 lbs shrimp: Deveined and cleaned
• 2 lbs clams: Scrubbed clean
• 2 lbs mussels: Scrubbed and debearded
• 1 lb small potatoes: Halved
• 3 ears of corn: Cut into thirds
• 1 lb Portuguese chorizo: Sliced
• 1 large onion: Quartered
• 4 cloves garlic: Smashed
• 2 lemons: Halved
• 1/4 cup Old Bay seasoning
• 2 bay leaves
• Fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish
• Melted butter: For serving

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Pot

Begin by filling a large pot with enough water to cover all the ingredients. Add the Old Bay seasoning, bay leaves, onion, garlic, and halved lemons. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, allowing the aromatic flavors to infuse the water.

Step 2: Cooking the Potatoes and Corn

Add the halved potatoes and corn segments to the pot. Let them cook for about 10 minutes until they begin to soften but are not fully cooked.

Step 3: Introducing the Chorizo

Next, add the sliced Portuguese chorizo to the pot. The chorizo will release its smoky, spicy oils into the boiling water, enriching the broth with its robust flavor. Allow it to cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 4: Adding the Seafood

Start by adding the clams and mussels, as they take a bit longer to cook. Once they begin to open, after about 5 minutes, add the shrimp. Cook until the shrimp turn pink and opaque, typically 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Serving the Feast

Drain the seafood boil and transfer everything to a large serving platter. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and a touch of freshness. Serve immediately with melted butter and lemon wedges on the side for drizzling.

Conclusion

This Portuguese-Inspired Seafood Boil with Chorizo is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of fresh seafood, smoky chorizo, and fragrant seasonings creates a symphony of flavors that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or a cozy family dinner, this dish brings the essence of Portuguese coastal cuisine to your table.

Final Thoughts

Gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and dive into this delicious seafood feast. At Iberian Caribbean Kitchen, we believe that food is not just about nourishment but about creating memories and celebrating cultures. Enjoy this Portuguese twist on a classic seafood boil, and let the flavors of the Iberian Peninsula and the Caribbean inspire your culinary adventures