🥘 What Is Caldo de Res?

Caldo de Res is a rich and comforting Mexican beef soup, traditionally simmered for hours with beef bones and hearty vegetables. The term "caldo de res" literally means “beef broth” in Spanish, but this dish is far more than a broth—it’s a complete, soul-warming meal served in a bowl.  Caldo De Res Recipe

This traditional dish is known for its large chunks of meat and whole vegetables, turning a simple soup into a filling, nutritious feast. Often served with warm corn tortillas, lime wedges, and a side of rice, it’s the definition of Mexican comfort food.

🌟 What Makes Caldo de Res Special?

Unlike lighter soups, Caldo de Res stands out for:

• Its use of bone-in beef shanks, which add deep flavor and gelatin to the broth.

• Vibrant, chunky vegetables like corn, cabbage, carrots, zucchini, and potatoes.

• A slow-cooking process that intensifies the taste and draws out nutrients.

It’s not just food—it’s a cultural tradition, passed through generations and enjoyed at family gatherings, especially during the colder months.

🍲 Ingredients for Caldo de Res (Serves 6–7)

Here's a list of everything you'll need to make this traditional Mexican beef soup:

✅ Beef:

• 4 beef shank steaks (with bone-in)

• Soup bones (marrow bones are best)

✅ Vegetables:

• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped

• 2 zucchinis, chopped

• 2 calabazas (Mexican squash), chopped

• 2 corn cobs, cut into quarters

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• ⅓ head of cabbage, chopped

• 2 Roma tomatoes, chopped

• 2 russet potatoes, peeled and chopped

✅ Aromatics & Seasonings:

• 3 garlic cloves, peeled

• 1 medium onion, halved

• ¼ cup tomato sauce (optional)

• 2 tbsp APC OG seasoning (salt, pepper, garlic)

• 2 tsp cumin

• Water (enough to cover all ingredients and adjust as needed)

🛠️ Equipment You’ll Need

• Large stockpot or Dutch oven

• Skimmer or spoon (for removing impurities)

• Knife and cutting board

• Ladle

• Measuring spoons

👩‍🍳 How to Make Caldo de Res – Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start with the Bones

Rinse the beef bones well and place them in a large stockpot. Cover with water and bring to a simmer. Simmer for 20–30 minutes and skim off any impurities or froth that rise to the top.

2. Add the Beef Shanks

Add the beef shank steaks and let them simmer for an additional hour. This slow process helps extract the beef's flavor and collagen into the broth.

3. Add Base Vegetables and Aromatics

Now add the onion halves, garlic cloves, celery, corn quarters, and tomato sauce (if using). Let it simmer for another 15 minutes.

4. Add Carrots and Simmer

Stir in chopped carrots and simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the sweetness of the carrots to blend with the savory broth.

5. Add Tomatoes and Cabbage

Add the chopped Roma tomatoes and cabbage. Cook for 10–15 more minutes to let them soften and add richness to the flavor profile.

6. Add Potatoes and Simmer Until Tender

Add the peeled, chopped potatoes. Continue simmering for 30–45 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender and the beef is falling apart.

7. Season and Adjust

Add the APC OG seasoning and cumin. Taste the broth and adjust salt, spice, or water levels as needed.

🍛 How to Serve Caldo de Res

This soup is traditionally served hot with:

• A side of Spanish rice

• Warm corn tortillas

• Lime wedges for a bright finish

• Hot sauce or sliced jalapeños (optional, for heat lovers)

• Optional: Bone marrow scooped and eaten directly for an authentic touch

Many families enjoy it with rice stirred directly into the soup—a beloved custom that adds texture and flavor.

📌 Cooking & Customization Tips

🕒 Timing Tip:

Slow and steady wins the flavor. Don’t rush it—3 hours is ideal for rich, deep flavor.

💧 Water Tip:

Start with less water; you can always add more as the broth reduces.

🌽 Vegetable Options:

Swap or add vegetables like chayote, green beans, or even jalapeños for heat.

🍴 Serving Option:

Some serve the meat separately on a plate, and the broth with vegetables in a bowl. Both are delicious—go with your family tradition!

🧠 Nutritional Info (Approximate per Serving)

• Calories: 350 kcal

• Protein-rich, collagen-packed, and loaded with fiber from vegetables

• Gluten-free and highly customizable for different diets

📝 Final Thoughts

Caldo de Res isn’t just soup—it’s a tradition, a comfort food, and a showcase of how simple ingredients and slow cooking can create something incredibly satisfying. Whether it’s a rainy evening or a family reunion, this classic dish brings warmth, flavor, and culture to the table.