Caldo de Res: The Hearty and Nourishing Mexican Beef Soup

Introduction

Caldo de Res, or Mexican beef soup, is a hearty and nourishing dish that is perfect for cold nights and family gatherings. Made with beef shank, corn, carrots, potatoes, and cabbage, this soup is loaded with vegetables and protein, making it a complete meal in itself. In this blog post, we will show you how to make Caldo de Res step by step, so you can enjoy this delicious and comforting soup at home.

Ingredients

For 4 portions, you will need:

• 1 kg beef shank with bone
• 2 corn on the cob, cut into 3 pieces each
• 2 large carrots, peeled and cut into 3 pieces each
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 4 pieces each
• 1 onion, peeled and halved
• 4 garlic cloves, peeled
• 1/2 head of cabbage, quartered
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp whole black peppercorns
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Clean the beef shank and remove any excess fat.
2. Place the beef in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface of the pot.
4. Add the onion, garlic, peppercorns, bay leaves, and oregano. Simmer for another hour, or until the beef is tender.
5. Add the corn, carrots, potatoes, and cabbage to the pot. Simmer for 30 minutes or until the vegetables are cooked through.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve hot with lime wedges and chopped cilantro on top.

Vegetarian/Vegan Version

For a vegetarian or vegan version of Caldo de Res, you can substitute the beef shank with vegetable broth and add your favorite vegetables. Some good options include zucchini, squash, chayote, and green beans. You can also add some tofu or seitan for extra protein. Follow the same instructions as above, but substitute the beef with vegetable broth and adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Tips and Variations

• You can add some diced tomatoes and jalapeño peppers for extra flavor and spice.
• Use bone-in beef for a richer and more flavorful broth.
• If you like it spicy, add some hot sauce or chili flakes to taste.
• Serve with warm tortillas or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Caldo de Res is a delicious and comforting Mexican beef soup that is perfect for cold nights and family gatherings. With its hearty and nourishing ingredients, this soup is not only tasty but also good for you. Follow our step-by-step instructions to make Caldo de Res at home and enjoy a bowl of warm and satisfying soup with your loved ones.

FAQ

What is Caldo de Res?

Caldo de Res is a traditional Mexican soup that is made with beef, vegetables, and aromatic herbs. It is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for cold weather.

What ingredients do I need to make Caldo de Res?

To make Caldo de Res, you will need beef shanks, water, onion, garlic, potatoes, carrots, celery, corn, zucchini, cilantro, and lime.

Can I use a different type of meat instead of beef shanks?

Yes, you can use a different type of meat, such as beef brisket or chuck roast, but beef shanks are traditionally used in Caldo de Res because they add flavor and richness to the broth.

How long does it take to make Caldo de Res?

It takes about 2-3 hours to make Caldo de Res, depending on the tenderness of the meat.

Can I make Caldo de Res in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make Caldo de Res in a slow cooker. However, it will take longer to cook, about 6-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high.

Can I freeze Caldo de Res?

Yes, you can freeze Caldo de Res. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Can I add other vegetables to Caldo de Res?

Yes, you can add other vegetables to Caldo de Res, such as green beans or squash. However, make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How should I store leftover Caldo de Res?

Store leftover Caldo de Res in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make Caldo de Res without meat for a vegetarian version?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of Caldo de Res by using vegetable broth and omitting the beef shanks. You can also add more vegetables, such as mushrooms or bell peppers, to make it more filling.

How should I serve Caldo de Res?

Serve Caldo de Res hot, garnished with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime. You can also serve it with tortillas or rice on the side.