Caldillo
Caldillo is a hearty stew combining tender meat, potatoes, and rich tomato flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings with warm tortillas.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the stew meat or round steak, diced onion, and diced potatoes in a small amount of oil.
- Add chili powder, stewed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and water to the browned ingredients.
- Cook over low heat until the meat and vegetables are tender, about 6 to 8 hours.
- Serve the stew with rolled, buttered, hot tortillas.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider marinating the meat in the chili powder and a bit of vinegar before cooking. If you prefer a milder stew, reduce the amount of chili powder or substitute with a mild paprika. Fresh herbs like cilantro can enhance the dish just before serving. You can also swap in sweet potatoes for a different texture and taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the caldillo hot, with rolled, buttered tortillas on the side for dipping. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with Black Beans And Yellow Rice or a fresh side salad. This dish also pairs beautifully with Cinnamon Tortillas And Fruit Salsa for a sweet contrast after the savory stew.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the stew. For longer storage, you can freeze the caldillo for up to 3 months; just remember to cool it completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caldillo contains roughly 691 calories, with 13g protein, 96g carbohydrates, and 30g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (36% of the Daily Value), and potassium (32% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 886mg per serving (39% 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 other types of meat for caldillo?
Yes, you can use chicken or pork as alternatives to beef. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly; chicken may take less time, while pork can be similar to beef in cooking duration. Ensure the meat is tender before serving.
Is caldillo suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Yes, caldillo can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free tortillas and ensuring that the tomato sauce and other canned ingredients do not contain gluten. Always check labels for hidden gluten sources.
Can I make caldillo in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Brown the meat and onions first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours until tender. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully and simplifies the cooking process.
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).