Caldo de Res: Hearty Mexican Beef Soup

A Warm and Nourishing Tradition

Imagine coming home to a steaming bowl of Caldo de Res: Hearty Mexican Beef Soup—its rich broth, tender beef, and vibrant vegetables filling the air with comforting aromas. Whether it’s a chilly evening, a family gathering, or simply a time when you crave something deeply satisfying, this traditional Mexican soup is the ultimate comfort food.

Packed with slow-cooked beef, hearty vegetables, and warming spices, Caldo de Res has been a staple in Mexican households for generations. It’s more than just a soup—it’s a nourishing meal that brings people together. The best part? It’s surprisingly easy to make, and the flavors only get better over time.

If you’re ready to bring the warmth of an authentic Mexican kitchen into your home, let’s dive into the history, ingredients, and step-by-step process of making this beloved dish.

Ingredients for Caldo de Res

To make this flavorful, nutrient-packed soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients

Ingredient	Quantity
Beef shank bones, oxtails, or short ribs	2 lbs
Beef chuck, cubed	1 lb
Garlic cloves, smashed	3
Bay leaves	2
Kosher salt	1 tbsp
Yellow potatoes, cut into 8 pieces	2
Corn on the cob, sliced into 2-inch chunks	2 cobs
Carrots, peeled and sliced into thick pieces	4
Jalapeño, sliced into rings	1 large
Cabbage, cut into quarters	½ head
Zucchini, cut into thick coins	2
Chickpeas, drained	14 oz
Mint sprigs	2

For Serving

• ½ cup chopped cilantro
• 2 limes, quartered

This combination of rich beef, fresh vegetables, and herbs creates a deeply satisfying broth that’s both nutritious and delicious.

How to Make Caldo de Res: Hearty Mexican Beef Soup

1. Prepare the Beef

• In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the beef shank bones, beef chuck, smashed garlic, bay leaves, and kosher salt.
• Cover with 10-12 cups of water and bring to a boil over high heat.
• Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 1-2 hours, occasionally skimming off any foam that rises to the top.
• When the beef is tender, move on to adding the vegetables.

2. Add the Hearty Vegetables

• Add the potatoes, corn, and carrots to the broth.
• Continue simmering for 20 minutes until they start to soften.

3. Add the Tender Vegetables

• Stir in the jalapeño slices, cabbage quarters, zucchini coins, and drained chickpeas.
• Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes until all the vegetables are tender.

4. Season and Infuse with Mint

• Taste the soup and adjust the salt if needed.
• Add the mint sprigs and simmer for 5 more minutes to enhance the flavor.

5. Serve and Enjoy

• Remove the bay leaves and mint sprigs before serving.
• Ladle the soup into bowls, making sure each serving has a mix of beef and vegetables.
• Garnish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime for a burst of freshness.

Why You’ll Love This Mexican Beef Soup

✅ Deep, Rich Flavor – The long simmering process creates a broth that is bold and hearty.
✅ Nutritious and Filling – Loaded with protein, fiber, and vitamins from the beef and vegetables.
✅ Great for Meal Prep – The flavors only get better the next day!
✅ Naturally Gluten-Free – No need to worry about substitutions.
✅ Authentic Mexican Comfort Food – Experience a true taste of tradition with every spoonful.

The Nutritional Benefits of Caldo de Res

1. Bone Broth for Gut Health

The slow-simmered beef shank bones release collagen, minerals, and amino acids, which help support digestion and joint health.

2. High-Quality Protein

The combination of beef shank, chuck, and chickpeas provides a rich source of protein for muscle repair and overall strength.

3. Fiber and Vitamins from Vegetables

This soup is packed with carrots, zucchini, cabbage, and potatoes, which offer essential vitamins like A, C, and K, supporting immune function and heart health.

4. Jalapeños for a Metabolism Boost

Adding jalapeños to your soup brings a slight spicy kick and can boost metabolism and circulation.

Variations and Customizations

1. Make It Spicier

• Add extra jalapeños or a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for heat.

2. Use Different Vegetables

• Try adding chayote, green beans, or bell peppers for extra flavor.

3. Swap the Protein

• Instead of beef, use chicken or pork for a different twist on this classic soup.

4. Make It Low-Carb

• Skip the potatoes and replace them with more zucchini or cauliflower.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy your Caldo de Res with these delicious side options:

🥖 Warm Corn Tortillas – Perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
🍋 Extra Lime Wedges – For a fresh citrusy touch.
🌶 Sliced Avocado or Radishes – Adds a creamy or crunchy contrast.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~350 kcal
Protein	30g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fat	12g
Fiber	6g
Sodium	800mg

This soup is nutrient-dense, satisfying, and perfect for any time of year.

FAQs About Caldo de Res

1. Can I make caldo de res ahead of time?

Yes! The soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

2. Can I freeze caldo de res?

Absolutely! Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stove over medium heat.

3. What if I don’t have beef shank bones?

You can substitute with oxtails, short ribs, or even bone-in beef chuck for a similar rich flavor.

4. Is caldo de res spicy?

No, but the jalapeños add a mild kick. If you prefer a milder soup, simply leave them out.

5. Can I use canned vegetables?

Fresh vegetables are best, but you can use canned chickpeas or frozen corn as substitutes.

6. What’s the best way to reheat caldo de res?

Warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding extra broth if needed. Avoid microwaving for long periods, as it can make the vegetables mushy.

Final Thoughts: A Bowl of Mexican Comfort

There’s a reason Caldo de Res: Hearty Mexican Beef Soup has been cherished for generations. It’s rich, flavorful, nourishing, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a hearty family dinner or a warm dish to lift your spirits, this soup is the perfect choice.

So, why wait? Try this recipe today and experience the comfort and tradition of authentic Mexican cooking!

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