15+ Best Caldo de Res Recipes for a Cozy Mexican Beef Soup Experience
There’s something magical about a warm bowl of caldo de res, especially on a chilly day. This Mexican beef soup wraps you in a cozy embrace, filling your kitchen with the most enticing aromas. Get ready to explore some delightful recipes that will make your taste buds dance and your heart feel right at home.
This traditional version of caldo de res showcases the rich flavors of beef, combined with fresh vegetables simmered to perfection. The cooking technique involves slow simmering, allowing the broth to absorb all the hearty goodness from the meat and veggies.
2 lbs beef shank or short ribs
10 cups water
1 onion, quartered
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, chopped
2 potatoes, diced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 corn on the cob, cut into pieces
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped cilantro for garnish
What makes this recipe special is its simplicity and the ability to let the quality of the ingredients shine through. The slow-cooked beef becomes incredibly tender, while the vegetables add depth and sweetness to the broth. It’s a comforting bowl that feels like a warm hug, perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in.
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: Beef stew meat, green beans, summer squash, sweet corn, hot sauce Total Time: 3 hr 30 min.
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If you’re looking to spice things up, this version of caldo de res incorporates smoky chipotle peppers for a kick that elevates the dish to a whole new level. The technique involves sautéing the peppers with the aromatics before simmering, which infuses the broth with a unique heat and flavor.
2 lbs beef chuck, cut into chunks
8 cups beef broth
1 onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2-3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
1 bell pepper, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 potatoes, diced
Salt and lime juice to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish
This recipe is a favorite for those who love a bit of heat in their meals. The smoky flavor from the chipotle peppers really enhances the beefy broth, creating a rich and complex taste. Pair it with warm tortillas, and you’ll have a meal that’s both exciting and comforting all at once.
This refreshing twist on the classic caldo de res introduces fresh avocado and a squeeze of lime, adding a creamy texture and zesty brightness to the soup. The cooking method remains traditional, but the addition of avocado at the end gives it a unique and vibrant flair.
2 lbs beef short ribs
10 cups water
1 onion, quartered
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 carrots, chopped
2 potatoes, diced
1 zucchini, sliced
1 ripe avocado, diced
2 limes, juiced
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped cilantro for garnish
What makes this recipe stand out is the delightful contrast between the hearty beef and the creamy avocado. The lime juice adds a refreshing tang that lightens the dish, making it perfect for any time of year. It’s a unique combination that’s sure to impress your family and friends.
Ingredients: Short ribs, green beans, beef shank, cabbage, chayote
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This variation incorporates nopales, or cactus paddles, which add a unique texture and flavor to the traditional soup. The cooking method involves first sautéing the nopales to reduce their sliminess before adding them to the simmering broth.
2 lbs beef brisket
8 cups water
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups nopales, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 potatoes, diced
1 jalapeño, chopped (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped cilantro for garnish
The addition of nopales brings a delightful tang to the soup, making it a favorite among those who love traditional Mexican ingredients. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meal. This recipe is perfect for adventurous eaters looking to try something new while still enjoying the comforting flavors of caldo de res.
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: Beef shank, potato, beef broth, diced tomatoes, carrot Total Time: 2 hr 30 min.
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This recipe takes a delicious turn by adding beer to the broth, which deepens the flavor and adds a slight bitterness that beautifully balances the sweetness of the vegetables. The cooking technique involves simmering the beef in both water and beer for a rich and complex taste.
The beer not only adds depth to the flavor but also tenderizes the meat, making it melt-in-your-mouth delicious. This recipe is perfect for gatherings, as it’s sure to impress your guests with its unique twist. Enjoy it with a crusty bread or some warm tortillas for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients: Beef short ribs, beef marrow bones, corn tortillas, tomato paste, mint Total Time: beef short ribs, beef marrow bones, corn tortillas, tomato paste, mint.
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For those who prefer a plant-based option, this vegetarian version captures the essence of caldo de res while completely omitting the meat. The technique involves simmering a variety of vegetables and beans to create a hearty, flavorful broth that is comforting and satisfying.
4 cups vegetable broth
1 onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, sliced
2 potatoes, diced
1 cup green beans, chopped
1 zucchini, sliced
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped cilantro for garnish
This recipe offers a delightful and hearty alternative for those who want to enjoy the flavors of caldo de res without the meat. The combination of beans and vegetables creates a filling meal that’s packed with nutrients and flavor. It’s a wonderful reminder that you don’t need meat to enjoy a comforting bowl of soup.
