Ingredients
Scale
Meat:
- 1 lb bone-in beef shanks (or short ribs)
- 1 lb beef chuck, cut into chunks
Broth Base:
- 12 cups water (or 8 cups water + 4 cups beef broth)
- 1 head garlic, halved
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 bunch cilantro
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
Vegetables:
- 2 ears of corn, cut into rounds
- 2 carrots, cut into thick slices
- 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ½ cabbage, cut into wedges
- 1 zucchini, cut into chunks
- 1 chayote, peeled and cubed (optional)
Garnishes:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
- Sliced jalapeños (optional)
- Diced onion (optional)
Instructions
Pressure Cooker Method:
- Brown the Meat:
Set the pressure cooker to sauté mode. Lightly coat beef shanks and chuck with olive oil and brown in batches. Remove and set aside. - Prepare the Broth:
Add water/broth, garlic, onion, bay leaves, and cilantro. Return browned meat to the pot. Secure the lid and cook on high pressure for 30 minutes. Allow natural release for 10-15 minutes. - Add Vegetables:
Open the lid and add hard vegetables (carrots, potatoes). Cook on high pressure for an additional 5 minutes, then quick release. Add softer vegetables (zucchini, cabbage), and simmer for 10 minutes until tender. - Adjust and Serve:
Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve in bowls with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and tortillas on the side.
Stovetop Method:
- Brown the Meat:
Heat oil in a large Dutch oven. Brown the meat in batches, then remove and set aside. - Build the Broth:
Add water/broth, garlic, onion, bay leaves, and cilantro. Return meat to the pot and simmer for 2.5 hours until tender, skimming foam as needed. - Add Vegetables:
Add carrots and potatoes. Simmer for 20 minutes. Add zucchini and cabbage in the last 10 minutes of cooking. - Serve:
Adjust seasonings, garnish, and enjoy.
Notes
- Use beef marrow bones for added richness if desired.
- Store-bought pre-cut vegetables save time without sacrificing flavor.
- For a clearer broth, soak beef shanks in cold water for 1 hour before cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Pressure Cooker or Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free