Old Fashioned Caldo de Res

Ah, Old-Fashioned Caldo de Res—a traditional Mexican beef and vegetable soup that’s hearty, comforting, and full of rich, savory flavors. It’s essentially a slow-simmered beef broth with tender meat and vegetables, often served with warm corn tortillas and lime.

Here’s a detailed breakdown:

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Key Ingredients

• Beef: A mix of meaty bones and cuts like shank, short ribs, oxtail, or brisket (for flavor and tenderness)

• Vegetables:

  • Corn on the cob (cut into chunks)

  • Carrots

  • Chayote (optional)

  • Zucchini

  • Potatoes

  • Cabbage

  • Green beans

  • Onions and garlic (for the broth)

  • Tomatoes (fresh or roasted for extra depth)

• Herbs & spices:

  • Cilantro stems

  • Bay leaf

  • Salt and pepper

• Optional additions: Lime wedges, radishes, chopped onions, and fresh cilantro for serving

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How It’s Made

1. Prepare the broth:

   • In a large pot, cover beef bones and meat with water.

   • Add onion, garlic, bay leaf, and a little salt.

   • Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.

   • Skim off any foam or impurities.

   • Simmer 1.5–2 hours until meat is tender and broth is flavorful.

2. Add heartier vegetables first:

   • Carrots, potatoes, and corn take longer to cook.

   • Simmer 15–20 minutes.

3. Add quicker-cooking vegetables:

   • Zucchini, cabbage, green beans, chayote, or any other tender veggies.

   • Simmer another 10–15 minutes until all vegetables are cooked but still slightly firm.

4. Adjust seasoning:

   • Taste and add more salt or pepper as needed.

5. Serve:

   • Ladle hot soup into bowls with chunks of beef, corn, and vegetables.

   • Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and optional chopped onions or radishes.

   • Serve with warm corn tortillas or crusty bread.

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Tips for Authentic Caldo de Res:

• Use a mix of bones and meaty cuts for a rich, flavorful broth.

• Don’t overcook vegetables; they should hold their shape.

• Serve with condiments on the side so everyone can adjust to taste.

This soup is hearty, nourishing, and perfect for family meals or cold days.

I can provide a full, step-by-step recipe with exact measurements, cooking times, and optional add-ins for extra flavor if you want it to turn out perfectly every time. Do you want me to do that?