Caldito
A hearty, comforting stew with savory ground beef, tender potatoes, and aromatic onion, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal served with warm tortillas. Ideal for family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the lean hamburger, chopped onion, and flour in a skillet.
- Add the finely chopped potatoes to the skillet.
- Pour water into the skillet until it is three-quarters full, then cover.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for 20 to 25 minutes until the potatoes are done.
- Serve hot with tortillas.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Caldito, consider adding garlic or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can add more flour or even use cornstarch as a substitute. For a heartier version, include diced carrots or celery along with the potatoes. This dish is also great with ground turkey or chicken as alternatives to hamburger.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Caldito hot, accompanied by warm tortillas for a complete meal. It pairs wonderfully with Mexican Pinto Bean Soup for a satisfying combination. For added freshness, consider a side of avocado slices or a simple salad. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top can also elevate the dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to restore moisture. It can also be microwaved in a covered dish, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Caldito contains roughly 116 calories, with 3g protein, 22g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 496mg per serving (22% 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 make Caldito ahead of time?
Yes, Caldito can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors often deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious. Just be sure to reheat it gently to maintain the texture of the potatoes.
What can I serve with Caldito?
Caldito is excellent on its own but pairs beautifully with sides like Mexican Corn Bread Salad or a light avocado salad. You can also serve it with chips for dipping, making it a versatile meal option.
Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute the hamburger with a plant-based protein or lentils. Use vegetable broth instead of water, and feel free to add more vegetables such as bell peppers and zucchini to enhance the dish.
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).