If you’re in search of food that adds warmth, comfort, and strong flavor to the dinner table, then take a look at caldo de res. The traditional Mexican soup made of beef and vegetables isn’t only a feast for the eye but also a warm, comforting hug served within the bowl. Imagine the smell of stewed beef shanks simmering, the smoky soup infused with marrow, as well as the refreshing flavor of lime, cilantro, and jalapenos blending. It doesn’t matter if you’re fighting a cold or looking for delicious, home-cooked food; caldo de res provides satisfaction with every spoonful.

What is Caldo de Res?

The heart of the dish, caldo de res, is the most well-known Mexican stew made of beef that is packed with vegetables and enhanced by beef shanks that have been bone-in. The secret behind its rich, delicious taste lies in cooking the beef using bone marrow, which fills the soup with a smooth texture and a delightful taste. Traditionally served in large bowls, caldo de res can be a food item that is often served with tortillas, rice, and fresh garnishes, such as onion, cilantro, and lime.

In Mexican tradition, caldo de res is more than just a dish. It’s a shared experience, often enjoyed with friends and family. It’s the kind of dish that fills your home with the scent of slow-cooked deliciousness on a lazy Sunday afternoon. Many find it to be more than just a bowl of soup. It’s an opportunity to nourish the body and soul, especially when it’s cooked with care and love.

Ingredients for Caldo de Res:

One of the most appealing aspects of Caldo de Res is its simplicity. The ingredients are easy to find and combine to create a rich and delicious dish. You’ll need:

For the Soup:

• Beef Shank with Bone is the highlight of the evening, with a rich flavor; it is crucial for good broths.
• Vegetable oil is needed to brown the meat.
• Salt and Pepper Basic seasonings are used to spice the taste of the beef.
• Onion adds sweetness as well as depth.
• Beef broth and water are the base of soup, and broth provides an extra layer of richness.
• Diced tomatoes provide a subtle acidity that is balanced by the richness of beef.
• Vegetables such as corn, carrots, potatoes, chayote, and cabbage. These vegetables add texture, color, and taste.
• New Cilantro: A fresh, vibrant flavor to connect it all.

Garnishes:

• New Cilantro It’s a must to get that last burst of brightness.
• The Pickled Jalapenos For those who enjoy a bit of heat.
• Very Finely Chopped Onion The sharpness of the onion is enhanced by its finely chopped bite.
• Lime Wedges: Squeeze a little lime juice for a zesty flavor.
• Radishes Crunchy and fresh, it’s the perfect topping.

How to Make Caldo de Res: A Step-by-Step Guide

After you’ve got all the ingredients, let’s go over how you can make your own delicious homemade soup. It’s much easier than you think and well worth it.

1. Prepare the beef. Begin by cutting up the beef from the bones into small pieces that measure 1/2 inch in size, leaving a bit of meat on the bone. This will ensure that you have tender pieces of beef with the marrow-yet-rich flavor that is present in broth.
2. Brown the meat. In a large pot, cook the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. When it is hot, add the beef and bones and season them with salt and spice. Cook the meat thoroughly on all sides. This step is essential for establishing the flavor.
3. Make the broth: Add the chopped onion to the pan and cook until lightly cooked. Add the tomato dice and beef broth, making sure the liquid covers your bones by about a half inch. After bringing it to a boil, place a lid on it and continue cooking for approximately an hour, or until the meat reaches your desired doneness.
4. Add the vegetables: After cooking the beef, add the 4 cups of water and bring it to a boil. Add the chopped carrots and cilantro, simmering for around 10 minutes. After that, add the chayote, corn, and potatoes. Allow them to simmer until soft.
5. End with cabbage. Then, push your cabbage pieces into the soup and allow them to cook for approximately 10 minutes, or till they are soft. At this time, your soup will be deliciously fragrant!
6. Serve and garnish: Pour the soup into large bowls. Ensure that every portion has a healthy mixture of vegetables, beef, and a bit of bone-in marrow to add flavor. Serve with fresh jalapenos, a diced cilantro onion, and quarters of radish. Make sure to squeeze some fresh lime juice on top to add that zesty punch.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Caldo de Res:

Do not skip the marrow. The marrow that is found in the bones gives this soup its amazing flavor and richness. You can take the marrow and then eat it on a piece of bread, or you can let it melt in the broth to add flavor.
Modify the vegetables to suit your preferences. In the event that you do not have chayote, use zucchini instead, or even leave it out entirely. The great thing about caldo de res’s versatility is its flexibility.
Skim off the fat: If the soup is slightly oily because of the beef, simply skim any excess fat off the top of the soup with a spoon to create a more clean and lighter broth.

How to Store and Reheat Caldo de Res?

If you’re fortunate enough to have leftovers, you can store caldo de reces beautifully. Simply place the soup in an airtight container, then refrigerate for up to five days. When you’re ready for the soup again, heat it on the stove on moderate heat or in the microwave. Overnight, the flavor will be more intense, and the soup will be tasty the following day.

Variations and customizations:

Traditional preparations of caldo de Res use shanks of beef, but you can alter the ingredients to suit your tastes or what’s in your pantry:

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the beef and use a vegetable broth base, adding more hearty veggies like zucchini, green beans, or even mushrooms.
• Spice it Up: If you like a little more heat, toss in fresh jalapeños or even a splash of your favorite hot sauce into the broth.
• Different Cuts of Beef: While beef shanks are the traditional choice, short ribs or brisket can also work well, adding their own unique flavors to the soup.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

Don’t believe us; home cooks have raved over this dish. It’s warm, hearty, and helps bring people together around the dinner table. One reviewer commented, “It’s absolutely perfect and delivers a wonderfully hearty soup that will warm you up on cool days.” Another reviewer said, “It was straightforward and came out just like my grandma used to make in El Paso. I like it with a side of Mexican rice, corn tortillas, and lots of lime.”

Frequently Asked Questions About Caldo de Res:

Conclusion: Get Warm with homemade Caldo de Res:

If you’re new to Mexican cuisine or just craving an authentic soup that is tasty and nutritious, caldo de res is a delicious dish to try. With its succulent stewed beef, tender broth, and colorful vegetables, it’s bound to become a household favorite. Try it, and make sure to serve it with a side of lime wedges and tortillas and perhaps an entrée of Mexican rice. Enjoy!

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