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Quick and Easy Caldo de Res Recipe, Learn how to make a quick and authentic Caldo de Res, a hearty Mexican beef soup, using time-saving tips and modern cooking methods for busy weeknights.

Caldo de Res Secrets: 7 Pro Tips for the Perfect Mexican Beef Stew

A flavorful and hearty Mexican beef soup made in a fraction of the time with pressure cooking or stovetop techniques. Packed with tender beef, nutritious vegetables, and authentic seasonings, this quick caldo de res is perfect for busy weeknight dinners.

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

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:

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. Adjust and Serve:
    Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve in bowls with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and tortillas on the side.

Stovetop Method:

  1. Brown the Meat:
    Heat oil in a large Dutch oven. Brown the meat in batches, then remove and set aside.
  2. 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.
  3. Add Vegetables:
    Add carrots and potatoes. Simmer for 20 minutes. Add zucchini and cabbage in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
  4. 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.
  • Author: Eva Chef
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Category: Soup
  • Method: Pressure Cooker or Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mexican
  • Diet: Gluten Free