Caldillo (Cal-Di-O)(A Traditional Northern Mexican Dish; A Soup)
A hearty Northern Mexican soup with tender beef, potatoes, green chilies, and aromatic seasonings, perfect for warming up on a chilly day or satisfying a comforting craving.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the stew meat until done.
- Add garlic, chopped onion, bouillon cubes or chicken broth, oregano, salt, and pepper to the meat.
- Stir in the diced or chopped green chilies.
- Cook the potatoes separately until tender, then add them to the meat and seasonings and cook together for a few more minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the stew meat before adding the other ingredients. If you don't have green chilies, you can substitute with diced bell peppers for a milder taste. Fresh herbs like cilantro can also enhance the dish. To thicken the soup, blend a portion of the cooked potatoes and stir them back in. This recipe is versatile and pairs well with sides like Easy Chicken Quesadillas.
Serving Suggestions
Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for added brightness. This soup is excellent on its own or paired with warm tortillas. You might also consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or rice. For a complete meal, it goes wonderfully with Arroz Con Pollo Casserole, enhancing the flavors of traditional Mexican recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup thickens, you can add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Alternatively, you can microwave in a covered bowl, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caldillo (Cal-Di-O)(A Traditional Northern Mexican Dish; A Soup) contains roughly 1215 calories, with 20g protein, 163g carbohydrates, and 54g fat. It is an excellent source of potassium (67% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (53% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (50% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2310mg per serving (100% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat for Caldillo?
Absolutely! While beef is traditional, you can substitute with chicken or pork if you prefer. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken cooks faster than beef. Using chicken can also make the dish lighter and is perfect for those looking for alternatives in chicken recipes.
How can I make Caldillo spicier?
To give your Caldillo a kick, add jalapeños or serrano peppers along with the green chilies. You can also sprinkle in some cayenne pepper or hot sauce to taste. Adjust according to your heat preference, and enjoy experimenting with different levels of spice!
Can I make Caldillo in advance?
Yes, this soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together. Just make sure to store it properly in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat gently to preserve the texture of the ingredients. This makes it a great option for meal prep or gatherings.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).