Kale Soup & Local Traditions: Cooking with Maria in the Azores

Maria has been welcoming us into her home for the past three years, and every visit feels like reconnecting with an old friend. Our culinary adventure with her always begins at the local fish market, where she shares her deep knowledge of Azorean seafood, introducing us to the freshest catch of the day. But the real magic happens when we step into her world—her home, her kitchen, and her lush private garden.

Before we start cooking, Maria takes us on a tour of her garden, encouraging us to pick and taste the ingredients we’ll use. She tells stories about the plants she nurtures, the traditions she keeps alive, and the recipes that have been passed down through generations. One of her favorites—and ours—is Kale Soup, a dish that perfectly captures the heartiness and warmth of Azorean cuisine.

Below, you’ll find the recipe, but nothing compares to experiencing it firsthand. Join us for Azores Culinary Experience 2025 (September 20–27, 2025) and meet Maria yourself, along with other incredible chefs, farmers, and hosts who bring the flavors of the Azores to life. Registration is open, all the information is available on the link here.

Kale Soup Ingredients:

Kale
1 carrot
Potato
Onion, minced or diced
Garlic, minced or diced
Chorizo
Olive oil
Salt

Directions:

Cut the kale into very thin slices (the thinner, the better).

Slice the potato and carrot as well.

In a pan, bring water to a boil, then add the potato, garlic, onion, and chorizo.

Once everything is cooked, removethe chorizo and blend the mixture into a purée using an immersion blender (Magic Wand).

Bon appetite!
Jan