The moment that warm, comforting aroma of Caldo de Res fills the kitchen, I can’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me. This traditional Mexican beef soup isn’t just a meal—it’s a family gathering in a bowl, overflowing with tender meat and an array of colorful vegetables simmered together in a rich, savory broth. On particularly chilly evenings, there’s nothing quite like serving up a hearty ladle of this nutritious dish, complete with a squeeze of lime to elevate the flavors.

I discovered this gem during a cozy Sunday cook-off with friends, where we combined our spice racks and recipe books to create something special. The inviting flavors of Caldo de Res turned our kitchen into a fiesta, and I’ve been hooked ever since. Ready to bring warmth and joy to your own table? Let’s dive into this comforting bowl of goodness that’s sure to become a staple in your home too!

Why is Caldo de Res a Must-Try?

Heartwarming and satisfying, this Caldo de Res will instantly become a favorite comfort dish in your household. Easy to customize, you can tailor the ingredients based on your preferences and what’s in your fridge. Flavor-packed, each spoonful offers tender beef and vibrant, nutritious veggies steeped in a rich broth. Perfect for gatherings, this dish is not only delicious but also feeds a crowd, making it ideal for family meals or cozy get-togethers. A healthy option, it provides a wholesome, nutrient-dense meal that’s delightful for any time of year. For extra ideas, check out my guide on serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience!

Caldo de Res Ingredients

• Get ready to create this delicious, hearty dish!

For the Beef Stock

Beef Shank (or Short Rib/Beef Chuck) – The main protein source, providing rich flavor and texture; Oxtail can be used for extra richness.
Water – The base for the stock, essential for simmering the beef and vegetables; Adjust amount as needed during cooking.
Onion – Adds depth of flavor to the broth; Shallots can be used for a milder taste.
Celery – Contributes to the soup’s aromatic profile; Leeks can be a suitable alternative.
Garlic – Enhances flavor complexity.
Chile de Arbol Peppers – Optional for heat and smoky flavor; Any dried chili peppers may serve as a substitute for various heat levels.
Bay Leaves – Infuses aromatic notes into the broth.
Black Peppercorns – Adds spiciness and depth; Freshly cracked for best flavor.
Salt – Essential for enhancing all flavors.

For the Vegetables

Potatoes – Adds heartiness and creaminess to the soup; Any waxy potato works well.
Carrots – Provides sweetness and a beautiful color contrast.
Zucchini – Adds texture and lightness.
Jalapeno Peppers – Optional for an extra kick of spiciness.
Corn – Offers sweetness and crunch.
Tomatoes – Adds acidity and depth; Canned tomatoes can replace fresh if they’re unavailable.
Cabbage – Gives a crunchy texture and flavor; Other greens like kale can be substituted.
Tomato Sauce – Contributes richness and body to the soup.

For Finishing Touches

Lime Juice – Brightens the entire dish and enhances flavors.
For Serving: Red pepper flakes, fresh chopped cilantro, hot sauce, and lime wedges to elevate your dining experience.

Let’s begin your delicious journey to making Caldo de Res that will warm not just your body but your soul!

How to Make Caldo de Res

Make the Beef Stock:
In a large pot, combine the beef, water, onion, celery, garlic, chiles, bay leaves, peppercorns, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, skimming fat as needed for a clean broth.
Shred the Beef:
Once the beef is tender, carefully remove it from the pot, shred it into bite-sized pieces, and set aside. Strain the broth to remove any solids, returning the clear liquid to the pot.
Prepare the Soup:
Return the strained broth to the stove and add water if necessary. Simmer the potatoes and carrots for about 20 minutes, until they’re tender and fragrant.
Add Remaining Vegetables:
Stir in zucchini, jalapenos, corn, tomatoes, cabbage, and tomato sauce. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 10 minutes until all the vegetables are cooked through and tender.
Combine and Serve:
Add the shredded beef back into the soup along with the lime juice. Heat through and taste, adjusting salt as necessary. Serve hot, garnished with red pepper flakes, fresh cilantro, hot sauce, and lime wedges.

Optional: Mix in some avocado for extra creaminess!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Caldo de Res

Skimming Fat: Keep the broth clear by skimming the fat frequently; this helps maintain a clean soup and enhances the flavor.
Simmer Low and Slow: Allow the Caldo de Res to simmer on low heat for longer; this melds the flavors beautifully, making for a richer broth.
Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to experiment with vegetables you have on hand; using seasonal produce adds variety and freshness to your Caldo de Res.
Choosing Beef Cuts: Go for cuts like beef shank or chuck for the best flavor; avoid lean cuts that can lead to a less hearty dish.
Adjusting Spice Level: For a milder soup, remove the seeds from jalapenos or use less chile; taste testing is key to achieving your desired heat level.

How to Store and Freeze Caldo de Res

Fridge: Keep leftover Caldo de Res in a sealed container for up to 5 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before storing to maintain freshness.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Portioning into smaller containers makes it easy to reheat just what you need.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a pot over medium heat until hot. Add a splash of water or broth if needed for consistency.

Tip: Fresh vegetables may lose texture when frozen, so consider adding delicate veggies like zucchini right before serving.

Make Ahead Options

Preparing Caldo de Res in advance is a fantastic way to save time during your busy week! You can make the beef stock and shred the beef up to 24 hours ahead. Simply cool the stock completely, then refrigerate it in an airtight container. Additionally, you can chop all the vegetables (potatoes, carrots, zucchini, etc.) and store them in the fridge in separate bags for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy the soup, just simmer the stock to heat through, add the prepped vegetables, and cook until tender. This approach keeps the soup just as delicious while offering the convenience of a quick meal that bursts with flavor!

What to Serve with Caldo de Res?

Elevate your dining experience by pairing this comforting beef soup with delicious side dishes that complement its rich flavors.

Mexican Rice: A fluffy, flavorful addition that soaks up the broth perfectly, enhancing each spoonful of soup.
Corn Tortillas: Soft, warm tortillas invite you to scoop up the hearty goodness—simple and delightful!
Charro Beans: Hearty and savory, these beans add a protein-packed side that balances the meal wonderfully.
Fresh Guacamole: Creamy avocado with a hint of lime brings a cool contrast to the warmth of the soup.
Spicy Salsa: A zesty kick that brightens up the meal, incorporating fresh flavors to every bite.
Side Salad: A light, crisp salad topped with a tangy dressing adds a refreshing crunch to balance the warmth of Caldo de Res.
Cilantro Lime Rice: Especially fragrant, this rice dish echoes the soup’s flavors while bringing an extra layer of zest.

These pairings not only enhance the flavor profile but also create a festive atmosphere, perfect for gatherings with family and friends!

Caldo de Res Variations

Explore delightful twists to make this comforting soup your own!

Vegetarian Swap: Replace beef with hearty tofu or tempeh, using vegetable broth for a cozy plant-based version.
Extra Veggie Boost: Add green beans or peas to the mix for an extra burst of freshness and color.
Spice It Up: Swap jalapeños for serrano peppers for an even spicier kick that will warm the soul.
Different Proteins: Use chicken thighs for a lighter twist, ensuring to adjust the cooking time for tenderness.
Herb Infusion: Stir in fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley just before serving for a vibrant flavor lift.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle peppers for a smoky depth that tantalizes the taste buds.
Creamy Comfort: For a richer texture, blend in a cup of cream or coconut milk near the end of cooking.
Lime Zest Upgrade: Grate some lime zest into the soup for an extra zing that brightens every bowl!

Caldo de Res Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best beef for Caldo de Res?
Absolutely! For the richest flavor and texture, I recommend using beef shank, short rib, or beef chuck—these cuts become tender and delicious with slow cooking. For extra richness, oxtail is a fabulous choice. Just be sure to avoid lean cuts, as they can yield a less hearty soup experience.

What is the best way to store leftover Caldo de Res?
Very! You can keep leftover Caldo de Res in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Make sure it has completely cooled before sealing to maintain its freshness. I often make a large batch and enjoy it for a few days, which is perfect for busy weeknights!

Can I freeze Caldo de Res?
Certainly! This delightful soup freezes wonderfully. Portion it into airtight containers and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re craving comfort again, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove. If the texture of veggies has changed, feel free to add some fresh ones during reheating!

What if I don’t have all the ingredients?
No worries! Caldo de Res is super customizable. If you’re short on certain vegetables, feel free to swap in whatever you have on hand, like green beans or peas. You can even use chicken instead of beef or create a vegetarian version with tofu and vegetable stock. The more, the merrier!

Is Caldo de Res safe for pets?
Very! While the soup itself can smell delightful to your pets, please do not serve it to them. Ingredients like onion and garlic can be harmful to dogs and cats, so it’s best to enjoy this hearty dish solely for your human family.

How can I adjust the spice level of Caldo de Res?
Of course! If you prefer a milder flavor, simply remove the seeds from the jalapeno peppers or use fewer dried chiles. Start with a small amount, and gradually add more if you want to crank up the heat. Taste testing as you go will help you achieve the right balance!