As the chill of the evening sets in, I’m reminded of the comfort and warmth that a steaming bowl of Caldo de Res brings. This traditional beef soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, brimming with tender chunks of meat and vibrant vegetables. I discovered this hearty dish during a cozy family gathering where laughter filled the air and the aroma danced around the room, inviting everyone to the table.

What I love about Caldo de Res is its simplicity and versatility. You can easily customize the ingredients based on your mood or what you have on hand. Whether you’re looking for a nutritious family dinner or a comforting remedy after a long day, this recipe checks all the boxes. Each spoonful is rich with flavor, making it the perfect antidote to fast food fatigue.

Join me on this culinary adventure as we dive into the delightful world of homemade beef soup. You’ll soon find that creating this masterpiece is not only straightforward but also incredibly rewarding. Let’s roll up our sleeves and warm up our kitchens with this delicious Caldo de Res!

Why is Caldo de Res a must-try?

Hearty and Nourishing: This Caldo de Res warms both body and soul, packed with tender beef and fresh veggies.

Easy to Customize: Use your favorite vegetables or whatever you have in the fridge—no two batches need to be the same!

Crowd-Pleasing Comfort: Perfect for family gatherings or a cozy evening in, everyone will love this delightful bowl of goodness.

Effortless Cooking: Simply simmer and let the flavors meld—while you relax or prep for an upcoming event!

Let this recipe be a delightful break from the routine of fast food; it’s a simple way to bring joy back to mealtime.

Caldo de Res Ingredients

For the Soup Base
• Water – 8-10 cups; this creates the flavorful broth for your Caldo de Res.
• Beef shank with bone – 2 pounds; the bone adds richness and depth to the soup.
• Beef chuck roast – 1 ½ pounds, cubed; provides tender, juicy meat that falls apart beautifully.
• Garlic cloves – 4, minced; enhances the dish with aromatic warmth.
• White onion – 1, halved; adds sweetness and complexity to the broth.
• Salt – 1 tablespoon; ensures all the flavors come together perfectly.

For the Vegetables
• Chopped cabbage – 2 cups; adds a lovely crunch and nutritional boost.
• Roma tomatoes – 3, diced; introduces a fresh, tangy element to the dish.
• Large potatoes – 3, cubed; provides heartiness and balances the soup.
• Corn on the cob – 3, cut into thirds; sweet kernels bring joy and bursts of flavor.
• Large carrots – 3, peeled and cut into 2-inch slices; their natural sweetness complements the broth.
• Cilantro – 1 bunch; half chopped for flavor, half whole for garnishing freshness.
• Chayote squash or zucchini – 3, cut into thirds and sliced lengthwise into fourths; a great addition for varied texture.
• Green beans – 1 pound, fresh or frozen; they add crunch and a pop of green.

For Serving
• Limes – 1-2, quartered; a squeeze of lime brightens the soup and enhances its flavors.

How to Make Caldo de Res

Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, pour in 8-10 cups of water and add the beef shank, beef chuck roast, minced garlic, and one half of the onion. This foundation will infuse the soup with incredible flavor.
Season and Boil: Stir in 1 tablespoon of salt and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for several hours, until the beef is tender and easily pulls apart.
Add Vegetables: Carefully add the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, cubed potatoes, corn pieces, carrot slices, half of the chopped cilantro, chayote squash, and green beans to the pot. The colorful medley will create a nourishing blend of textures and flavors.
Simmer Until Tender: Continue simmering the soup until all the vegetables are tender and the flavors meld beautifully together, usually about 30-40 minutes.
Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh lime wedges and the remaining whole cilantro. The lime adds a zesty brightness that elevates each delicious bite.

Optional: For an extra kick, sprinkle in some crushed chili flakes before serving!

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Make Ahead Options

These Caldo de Res are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the beef broth (steps 1 and 2) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply allow the soup to cool completely before refrigerating it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can chop the vegetables (cabbage, tomatoes, potatoes, corn, carrots, and chayote squash) ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy your Caldo de Res, simply reheat the broth, add your prepped vegetables, and simmer until tender, yielding a warm, comforting meal with minimal effort. It’s a convenient way to bring homemade goodness to your table without the last-minute rush!

Caldo de Res Variations

Feel free to take this comforting bowl of Caldo de Res to new heights by experimenting with delightful variations!

Vegetarian: Swap beef for hearty mushrooms or jackfruit, and replace the beef broth with vegetable broth for a plant-based version.
Imagine the umami-rich flavors of mushrooms mingling with fresh veggies in your bowl.
Spicy Twist: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for a fiery kick that tantalizes your taste buds.
A little heat can transform this cozy soup into a vibrant culinary adventure!
Quinoa or Rice: Stir in cooked quinoa or rice during the last 15 minutes for added texture and nutrition.
This boosts the heartiness of the soup, making it even more satisfying!
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano for a fragrant twist that elevates the entire dish.
Fresh herbs bring a burst of brightness, enhancing the flavors beautifully.
Root Veggie Medley: Incorporate parsnips or turnips for a unique flavor profile and nutritional variety.
Their subtle sweetness adds an intriguing layer to your comforting soup.
Coconut Cream: For a creamy version, add a splash of coconut cream to the soup right before serving.
It introduces a rich, velvety texture that contrasts wonderfully with the broth.
Corn Flour: Thicken the broth with a bit of corn flour mixed with water for a luscious, velvety soup.
This gives your Caldo de Res an inviting, creamy consistency that will warm your heart.
Zesty Salsa: Serve with a side of fresh salsa for an extra burst of flavor, or mix some into the soup for added zest.
The bright, tangy elements of salsa complement the savory soup perfectly, awakening your palate!

Expert Tips for Caldo de Res

Choose Quality Meat: Select beef shank and chuck roast with good marbling; this ensures a rich, flavorful broth for your Caldo de Res.
Skim the Fat: During simmering, skim off any excess fat from the surface to keep the soup rich but not greasy.
Don’t Rush Cooking: Allow the beef to simmer gently for several hours; this is key to achieving tender meat that falls apart effortlessly.
Season Gradually: Taste and adjust salt towards the end of cooking; it’s easier to add than to remove saltiness.
Fresh Variations: Feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables; this way, your Caldo de Res can change with the seasons and what you have on hand.

How to Store and Freeze Caldo de Res

Room Temperature: Enjoy your Caldo de Res fresh and hot, but if left out, consume within 2 hours to ensure food safety.

Fridge: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze Caldo de Res in portions for up to 3 months. Use freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to revive the flavors.

What to Serve with Caldo de Res?

As you dive into the heartwarming flavors of this beef soup, let’s explore the perfect accompaniments to elevate your meal experience.

Warm Tortillas: The soft, fresh tortillas are perfect for scooping up the soup, adding a comforting texture that complements the dish.
Avocado Slices: Creamy and rich, avocado adds a smooth element that balances the bold flavors of the broth beautifully.
Zesty Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa brings a burst of flavor and crunch, enhancing the soup with its vibrant tomatoes, onions, and lime.
Cilantro Rice: The fragrant, herb-infused rice acts as a lovely base for the soup, soaking up every drop of the delicious broth.
Spicy Salsa Verde: A drizzle of this zesty green sauce ignites the palate with added heat, providing an exciting contrast to the savory soup.
Chilled Mexican Corn Salad: The sweetness of corn tossed with lime and chili makes for a refreshing side that pairs elegantly with the hearty soup.
Fruity Agua Fresca: A light, fruity drink like hibiscus or melon agua fresca cleanses the palate, with its bright flavors complementing the richness of the soup.
Chocolate Flan: Finish your meal on a sweet note with this creamy dessert, adding a delightful contrast to the savory flavors of Caldo de Res.

Caldo de Res Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best beef for Caldo de Res?
Absolutely! For optimal taste, select beef shank and chuck roast with good marbling. The fat ensures richness and flavor in your broth. Fresh, high-quality cuts of meat really make a difference in the final dish.

How should I store any leftovers?
Very simple! Once your delicious Caldo de Res has cooled down, transfer it to an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, it should last for 3 days. Just remember to reheat gently to keep those flavors intact!

Can I freeze Caldo de Res?
Of course! To freeze, ladle portions of Caldo de Res into freezer-safe containers—leaving some headspace for expansion. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to indulge again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.

What if my soup is too salty?
No worries! If you find that your Caldo de Res has turned out too salty, try adding extra diced potatoes or cooked rice. These ingredients can help absorb some of the saltiness while enriching the soup further. Just simmer for a bit longer until they are tender!

Can my pets enjoy the leftovers?
While your Caldo de Res is absolutely delicious for you, it’s best to keep it away from pets. Ingredients like onion and garlic can be harmful to them. Stick to a basic, pet-friendly beef broth if you want to share a little love with your furry friend.

What experience do I need to make this soup?
No formal culinary experience is required, my friend! This recipe is perfect for home-cooks of all levels. As long as you can operate a pot and follow the steps, you’ll create a comforting Caldo de Res that will impress everyone around your table!