Caldo de Res: Best Mexican Beef Soup Recipe

Caldo de Res, the traditional Mexican beef soup, is a heartwarming dish filled with rich flavors and a nutritious medley of vegetables. This comforting soup, known for its wholesome ingredients, is a staple in Mexican homes and often served during cold weather or as a nutritious meal after a long day. With chunks of tender beef, flavorful broth, and hearty vegetables, Caldo de Res is satisfying and easy to make, even for beginners.

This recipe is perfect for home cooks seeking a nourishing, gluten-free, and delicious meal that can easily fit into various dietary needs. Whether you’re a busy parent, a working professional, or someone looking for a cozy bowl of soup to enjoy, Caldo de Res can become a family favorite. With minimal prep time and straightforward cooking steps, it’s an ideal option for any weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the best Mexican beef soup recipe, from the ingredients you need to step-by-step instructions. We’ll also offer tips on how to customize the dish to your preferences, plus ways to store it for later enjoyment.

Why Choose Caldo de Res?

Choosing Caldo de Res over other soup recipes has plenty of advantages. First, its ease of preparation makes it perfect for novice cooks and busy individuals. With just a few ingredients and a bit of simmering time, you’ll have a pot of flavorful soup ready in no time. The beef becomes tender, and the vegetables infuse the broth with a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.

Packed with Nutrients

One of the key reasons Caldo de Res stands out is its nutritional profile. Beef provides high-quality protein and essential vitamins such as B12 and iron, which are vital for maintaining energy levels and healthy blood cells. Meanwhile, the vegetables (carrots, corn, potatoes, and zucchini) offer fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Together, these ingredients make for a balanced and wholesome meal.

For more insights into recipes that can pack a nutritional punch, check out the recipe for Chuck Eye Steak: No Fuss, Rich Flavor.

Customizable for Dietary Needs

Whether you’re looking to reduce calories or avoid gluten, Caldo de Res is flexible. You can easily adjust the ingredients to fit different dietary preferences. For a lower-calorie version, you can trim the fat off the beef or substitute it with leaner cuts. If you need a gluten-free meal, simply ensure the stock you use is gluten-free (most are, but it’s always good to check). The soup is naturally dairy-free, making it a great option for those with lactose intolerance or dairy sensitivities.

Simple and Affordable

Caldo de Res is also an affordable meal. With basic ingredients like beef shanks, potatoes, and vegetables, you won’t need to break the bank. Most of these items can be found at any local grocery store or even in your pantry, making this recipe not only delicious but also budget-friendly.

A Taste of Tradition

For those who love exploring authentic cuisine, Caldo de Res offers a taste of Mexico’s culinary traditions. This hearty soup is a favorite in many Mexican households, often served with warm tortillas and a side of salsa. The combination of rich broth and tender meat makes it a comforting and nostalgic dish for many families.

Now, let’s dive into the ingredients you’ll need to make him at home.

Ingredients Overview

What You’ll Need for Caldo de Res

To make Caldo de Res, you’ll need a combination of beef, vegetables, and seasonings. Here’s a detailed list:

  • 2 pounds of beef shank or short ribs (with bone)
  • 1 onion (cut into large chunks)
  • 3 cloves of garlic (peeled and smashed)
  • 3 large carrots (peeled and cut into large pieces)
  • 2 ears of corn (cut into 3-4 pieces)
  • 3 medium potatoes (peeled and quartered)
  • 2 zucchini (cut into thick rounds)
  • 1/2 small cabbage (cut into wedges)
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 8-10 cups of water or beef broth
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)
  • 1 bunch of fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
  • Lime wedges (for serving)

These ingredients create a rich, flavorful broth while providing essential nutrients. The vegetables and beef shank add depth and heartiness to the soup, making it a complete meal.

Substitutions to Customize Caldo de Res

One of the best parts about Caldo de Res is how versatile it is. You can easily adjust the recipe to suit your dietary needs or to make use of the ingredients you already have on hand.

  • Beef substitutes: If you prefer a leaner option, you can replace the beef shank with brisket or stew meat. For those looking to reduce the fat content, trimming the visible fat from the beef before cooking can also help.
  • Vegetable variations: Feel free to swap or add vegetables depending on your preferences. Some popular substitutions include chayote, green beans, or bell peppers. For a low-carb version, you can replace the potatoes with turnips or cauliflower.
  • Broth options: While beef broth enhances the flavor of Caldo de Res, you can use chicken broth or vegetable stock in a pinch. If using water, be sure to add extra seasonings like cumin, oregano, or garlic powder to deepen the flavor.
  • Herbs and spices: To elevate the soup, you can add a small amount of ground cumin, a dash of chili powder, or fresh oregano. If you enjoy spicier dishes, consider adding a chopped jalapeño or serrano pepper for an extra kick.

 

Best Mexican Beef Soup Recipe

Step-by-Step Preparation of Caldo de Res

Cooking Caldo de Res is straightforward and requires minimal hands-on time, making it perfect for busy days. Follow these easy steps to create a flavorful pot of soup.

First Step: Brown the Beef

Start by preparing your beef shanks. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add a small amount of oil, and once hot, place the beef shanks into the pot. Brown the beef on both sides for 4-5 minutes per side. Browning the beef helps to develop the flavor in the soup.

Second Step: Add the Aromatics

Once the beef has browned, add the onion chunks, garlic, and bay leaves to the pot. Stir everything together for a couple of minutes until the onions start to soften. This step helps to release the aromatic flavors that will infuse the broth.

Third Step: Simmer the Beef

Next, pour the water or beef broth into the pot, enough to cover the beef and vegetables. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender and falls apart easily. During this time, occasionally skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.

Fourth Step: Add Vegetables

After the beef has become tender, add the potatoes, carrots, and corn to the pot. Continue simmering for another 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are cooked through. If using zucchini or cabbage, add them during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking so they retain some texture.

Fifth Step: Season and Garnish

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may need to add more salt, pepper, or other seasonings depending on your preference. Once the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well developed, remove the pot from the heat. Garnish the soup with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for an added burst of freshness.

Caldo de Res is best enjoyed with warm tortillas and a side of salsa. The fresh lime juice adds brightness to the dish, balancing out the rich flavors of the broth and tender beef.

Enhancing Caldo de Res: Tips and Variations

Want to take your Caldo de Res to the next level? Here are a few tips and variations to elevate your soup:

1. Use Homemade Beef Broth

For an even richer flavor, use homemade beef broth instead of store-bought. Simmer beef bones with aromatics like onions, garlic, and bay leaves for several hours to create a deeply flavorful broth.

2. Add Spices for Extra Flavor

While the traditional recipe uses minimal spices, you can add a bit of ground cumin, paprika, or even chili powder to give the soup more depth. A dash of smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor that complements the beef well.

3. Serve with Rice

In many Mexican homes, Caldo de Res is served alongside rice. The rice soaks up the flavorful broth and adds extra substance to the meal.

4. Make it Spicy

If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños, serrano peppers, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup. You can also serve the soup with a side of spicy salsa for those who want to kick up the heat.

How to Store 

Caldo de Res stores well and makes for excellent leftovers. Follow these tips to ensure it stays fresh:

Refrigeration

After cooling, store any leftover Caldo de Res in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last for up to 4 days. When reheating, do so over low heat to avoid overcooking the vegetables.

Freezing

To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator, then warm it on the stove over low heat.

Nutritional Benefits of Caldo de Res

Caldo de Res isn’t just delicious—it’s packed with nutrients that support overall health:

  • Calories: 300-350 per serving
  • Protein: 25-30 grams from the beef, essential for muscle repair and growth.
  • Vitamins: A rich source of vitamins A (from carrots) and C (from zucchini and cabbage).
  • Minerals: High in iron, calcium, and potassium, which are vital for maintaining healthy bones and proper bodily functions.
  • Fiber: Thanks to the variety of vegetables, Caldo de Res contains ample dietary fiber to support digestion.

Common Questions 

1. Can I make Caldo de Res in a slow cooker?

Yes! To make Caldo de Res in a slow cooker, brown the beef first, then transfer it to the slow cooker with the broth and seasonings. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, adding the vegetables during the last hour of cooking.

2. What cuts of beef work best?

Beef shank with the bone is the traditional choice, but you can also use short ribs, oxtail, or even beef stew meat. The bone adds a lot of flavor to the broth, so it’s ideal to include cuts with bones.

3. How do I add more flavor to my broth?

To intensify the flavor of the broth, try roasting the beef bones and vegetables before simmering. You can also add herbs like thyme, oregano, or a bay leaf for added depth.

4. Can I make Caldo de Res ahead of time?

Absolutely! Caldo de Res actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

5. What should I serve with Caldo de Res?

Traditionally, Caldo de Res is served with warm corn tortillas, lime wedges, and a side of Mexican rice. You can also serve it with a simple green salad for a complete meal.


Enjoy your delicious, heartwarming Caldo de Res, a perfect meal for any occasion!

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