Caldo verde is one of the best-loved soups of Portugal, and a staple of the northern table, including in Porto. Though its origins lie in the Minho region to the north, it is found in traditional restaurants across the city.
The soup is simple: a base of potato, onion, garlic and olive oil, blended smooth, into which very finely shredded couve-galega — a kind of collard greens — is added, along with slices of chouriço sausage. That is essentially all, yet the result is comforting and full of flavour.
Caldo verde is traditionally served with a piece of Portuguese cornbread, and is closely tied to the popular festivals of the northern summer, including the São João celebrations of Porto. It is the kind of dish that tastes of home, and a warming, reassuring start to a meal at any time of year.
⭐ Must-try:
Caldo Verde
Highlights
- One of Portugal's best-loved soups, a staple of the North
- A smooth base of potato, onion, garlic and olive oil
- Finely shredded couve-galega greens and chouriço
- Traditionally served with Portuguese cornbread
- Tied to the popular festivals of the northern summer
Frequently asked questions
What is caldo verde?
It is a traditional Portuguese soup of potato, onion and olive oil with finely shredded greens and slices of chouriço.
Is caldo verde from Porto?
Its origins lie in the Minho region to the north, but it is a staple of the northern table and found across Porto.
How is caldo verde served?
Traditionally with a piece of Portuguese cornbread; it is also a classic of the northern summer festivals.