Caldo de Res, or Mexican beef soup, is a timeless family favorite that brings everyone together around the table. Packed with tender chunks of beef chuck roast, hearty vegetables, and vibrant spices, this comforting dish is the perfect remedy for a chilly day or a craving for authentic home-cooked flavor. So whether you’re reconnecting with your roots or introducing friends to a new favorite, Caldo de Res is more than just a meal - it’s a celebration of love, heritage, and the simple joys of home-cooked food.
3 lbs. Swift Chuck Roast, cut into 2-3 inch pieces
2 lbs. Swift Short Ribs
1 lb. Swift Beef Shank
1 head of garlic, cut in half
1 whole onion (keep the root on)
4 tbsp. salt
11 quarts water
3 ears of corn, cut into chunks
2 chayotes, peeled and chopped
2 Mexican zucchinis, sliced
4 carrots, peeled and chopped
10 small potatoes, unpeeled
1 bunch of cilantro
Caldo de Res Instructions:
Prep the Meat: Grab your Swift meats—3 lbs of chuck roast, 2 lbs of short ribs, and 1 lb of beef shank—and clean them up under cold water to get rid of any extra blood.
Cook It Up: Add the meat to a big pot with 11 quarts of hot water over medium heat. Make sure the water’s simmering when you add the meat to avoid splashes. Season it well with 4 tablespoons of salt, and toss in the garlic and onion (cut the onion in half but leave the root on).
Skim the Foam: Cover the pot and keep an eye out for foam rising. Skim it off every few minutes for about 15-20 minutes. Rinse the sieve and bowl between scoops to keep your broth nice and clear.
Simmer: Once the foam stops, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer on medium-low for about 2 hours, or until the meat is tender.
Prep the Veggies: While the meat’s cooking, chop up your veggies. Keep the hard ones (corn, carrots, potatoes) in one bowl, and the softer ones (zucchini, chayote, cilantro) in another.
Add Veggies: After 2 hours, add the hard veggies (corn, carrots, potatoes) and cook for about 10 minutes. Then toss in the soft veggies (zucchini, chayote) and cook for another 10 minutes. Add the cilantro at the end. Be careful not to overcook—veggies should be tender but still hold their shape.
Serve: Your caldo is ready! I love topping mine with rice, a squeeze of lime, and some salsa verde. And definitely make a taco to go with it!
Recipe Courtesy of Maria Herrera
SPREAD THE PASTA
Why keep this culinary masterpiece to yourself? Share the recipe on social media and let the world join in the fun of twirling spaghetti like pros and savoring the juicy, flavorful meatballs. It's a surefire way to spread joy, laughter, and deliciousness across the world!
Learn from the Meat Master Our Founder, Gustavus Swift