If you’ve been craving the spicy richness of chorizo but want to skip the meat, Trader Joe’s Soy Chorizo is your answer. Packed into a plump casing, this plant-based version looks like sausage, after you dig it out of its plastic casing, and brings undeniably vibrant flavor to tacos, scrambles, and more. It’s bold, convenient, and vegan-friendly.
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Review
Trader Joe’s Soy Chorizo comes in a 12 oz vegan tube made from textured soy protein, seasoned with smoky paprika, sea salt, garlic and vinegar. It’s gluten-free, spicy, and built to stand in for traditional Mexican-style chorizo.
First off, packaging alert: the soy chorizo arrives in a casing that’s more plastic than sausage. You’ll need to carefully slice it open and squeeze the contents into your pan. A little messy, yes, but totally doable.
Once out and cooking, this stuff sizzles beautifully. The aroma jumps out with warm, peppery, smoky spices that feel authentic. I sautéed onions and garlic alongside, and the soy chorizo clung to everything nicely. It browns well, offering a texture that’s chewy in a satisfying, meaty way.
Flavor-wise, it’s a winner. The smoky paprika and garlic combine to create that familiar chorizo punch that wraps around your mouth. You get a gentle heat without blasting your tongue, which means it’s versatile enough for breakfast tacos, chili, rice bowls—you name it. I even stirred some into a tofu scramble for a vibrant morning twist.
My favorite discovery? Freezing leftover portions in a reusable container. Just thaw and use whenever you want a burst of chorizo flavor without meat.
It’s not perfect, though. That casing is annoying to remove and can be messy. Plus, if you’re expecting it to taste exactly like pork chorizo, there’s a plant-based distinction—you’re pleasantly surprised, but not gasping “this tastes like pork.” For me? The flavor is bold and satisfying enough that meat eaters will give a nod—and vegans will rejoice.
How to Serve
- Tacos & Burritos: Sauté and build breakfast or dinner tacos
- Bowls & Salads: Use as a protein-packed topping for bowls or salad
- Scrambles & Quesadillas: Stir into eggs, tofu, or melty cheese quesadillas
- Chili & Sauces: Simmer into chili, stews, or marinara for bold flavor
Creative Uses
- Perfect Spot Potatoes: Add to potatoes with eggs or breakfast hash
- Stuffed Peppers: Mix with rice and beans for flavorful filling
- Chorizo Pizza: Sprinkle on pizza with peppers and onions
- Vegan Nachos: Layer over chips, beans, jalapeños for a spicy plate
The "casing" of the "chorizo":
FAQs about Trader Joe's Soy Chorizo
The following are commonly asked questions about this product:
Yes! Trader Joe’s Soy Chorizo is completely plant-based and vegan-friendly, made from textured soy protein, seasonings, and spices.
No, it’s gluten-free. This makes it a great option for anyone following a gluten-free diet, as well as those looking for a meatless alternative.
It has a smoky, spicy, and savory flavor profile, reminiscent of traditional Mexican chorizo. The texture is chewy and satisfying, making it a versatile meat substitute.
Made into tacos and topped with Trader Joe’s Reduced Guilt Chunky Guacamole and Trader Joe's Mexican Cheese Blend I had some really tasty tacos.
Final Thoughts
Trader Joe’s Soy Chorizo is a bold, vegan twist on traditional chorizo. It delivers rich, smoky flavor in a gluten-free, plant-based form that converts veggies and meat eaters alike. Yes, ditching the casing can be a bit messy, but the flavor payoff is totally worth it. Stock up, freeze extras, and prep for easy, flavorful meals all week long.
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Trader Joe’s Soy Chorizo
Product Name: Trader Joe’s Soy Chorizo
Product Description: Trader Joe’s Soy Chorizo brings smoky, spicy goodness to plant-based meals (yes, even meat lovers approve). Tacos, scrambles, chili—you name it.
Price: $2.99
Summary
Trader Joe’s Soy Chorizo delivers bold, smoky chorizo flavor in a vegan, gluten-free package that’s easy to cook with.
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Taste
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Value
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Worthy of Repurchasing
Pros
- Flavorful: Smoky, spicy, and chorizo-like without the meat
- Vegan & Gluten-Free: Plant-powered with no compromise
- Versatile: Works in tacos, scrambles, bowls, and more
Cons
- Casing Hassle: More plastic than sausage shell—needs careful removal
- Slight Texture Difference: Not quite pork but satisfyingly chewy
- Price vs. Quantity: You might run out fast—freeze extras
KingOfBeacon says
I make a bunch of different soups with this as the protein (and flavor base). The best being one with cabbage.
becomebetty says
That's an awesome suggestion. I never thought about adding this to a soup. I'm sure it has quite a kick to it.
KingOfBeacon says
It's not so bad because it gets diluted. Every August I make a big batch with seasonal veggies and eat it during the coldest days of winter.
Ttrockwood says
I have gotten every single friend and family member hooked on the soyrizo too! And they’re all omnivores. It’s fantastic added into black beans, or a breakfast casserole, my dad likes to cook it with cubed red potatoes to have with eggs, i like it on a taco salad so the veggies temper the heat.
It freezes great, so i just stock up once in a while
Matt K says
I am not a vegan or a vegetarian, but I order vegan chorizo tacos from taco stand and I was hooked! Thanks for the other ideas. I wish it had less fat. I have had very high triglycerides and trying to stay away from meat is important, but at 10 mg of fat per chorizo serving I am eating raw veggies all day.