Go Back
–+ servings

Authentic Caldo de Res (Mexican Beef Soup)

A hearty and authentic Mexican beef soup made with tender beef shanks, bone marrow, and fresh vegetables in a flavorful broth. This traditional caldo de res is perfect for family meals and special occasions.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Soup
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 234
Ingredients Method Nutrition

Ingredients
  

  • 2 pounds beef shanks with bone
  • 10 cups water
  • 1 large white onion quartered
  • 4 cloves garlic peeled
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tablespoon salt or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 3 large carrots peeled and cut into 2-inch chunks
  • 3 large potatoes peeled and quartered
  • 2 ears of corn cut into 2-inch pieces
  • 1 large chayote cut into large chunks
  • ¼ medium cabbage cut into wedges
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 2-3 limes cut into wedges for serving
  • Fresh jalapeños sliced (optional)

Method
 

  1. Place beef shanks in a large pot and add water until the meat is covered by about 2 inches. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low.
  2. Skim any foam that rises to the top during the first 10-15 minutes of cooking. This removes impurities and ensures a clear, clean-tasting broth.
  3. Add the quartered onion, garlic cloves, bay leaves, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cover partially and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the meat is beginning to become tender.
  4. Add the carrots, potatoes, corn, and chayote to the pot. Continue simmering for another 20 minutes.
  5. Add the cabbage wedges and continue cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender but not mushy.
  6. Taste the broth and adjust seasonings as needed. Remove bay leaves before serving.
  7. Ladle the soup into large bowls, ensuring each serving has a good portion of meat and various vegetables.
  8. Garnish each bowl with fresh chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the soup just before eating.

Nutrition

Calories: 234kcalCarbohydrates: 26gProtein: 22gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 39mgSodium: 1135mgFiber: 7gSugar: 9g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!