Mexican Tomato Caldo
A warm, flavorful Mexican tomato caldo featuring beef broth, tomato juice, green pepper, hot sauce, and fresh cilantro—perfect for a comforting, spicy appetizer or light meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine beef broth, tomato juice, chopped green pepper, and hot pepper sauce in a 2-quart casserole.
- Cover tightly and cook on High for 8 to 10 minutes, or until heated through.
- Serve in mugs and sprinkle with fresh cilantro.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier version, consider adding cooked ground beef or shredded chicken to the caldo. You can substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. If you prefer a thicker consistency, blend some of the mixture before serving. Adjust the hot pepper sauce to your taste, and try adding spices like cumin or oregano for extra flavor. This dish is perfect as a base for other Mexican recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Mexican Tomato Caldo in mugs for a cozy presentation, garnished with fresh cilantro. It pairs beautifully with Homemade Tamales or a side of tortilla chips for added crunch. For a complete meal, consider serving a light salad like Garbage(Aka Nacho Supreme Salad) alongside to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pour the caldo into a saucepan and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. For best results, avoid microwaving as it may alter the texture of the vegetables.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mexican Tomato Caldo contains roughly 210 calories, with 15g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (469% of the Daily Value), iron (145% of the Daily Value), and potassium (63% of the Daily Value). At about 210 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 this caldo ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the caldo ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stove for the best flavor and texture.
What can I serve with this dish?
This caldo is delicious on its own, but you can enhance the meal by serving it with crusty bread or quesadillas. For a festive touch, serve it alongside a refreshing Mexican-style salad or as an appetizer before a main course like Julie'S Mexican Casserole.
Can I freeze the leftover caldo?
Yes, you can freeze the caldo for up to 2 months. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove. Note that the texture of the vegetables may change slightly after freezing.
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).