Caldo de pollo, also known as Mexican chicken soup, is a flavorful and comforting dish that is perfect for chilly days or when you’re feeling under the weather. This traditional Mexican soup is made with chicken, vegetables, herbs, and spices, creating a delicious and hearty meal. Follow this easy recipe to make your own caldo de pollo at home!
Ingredients:
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 tomato, diced
- 1 ear of corn, cut into rounds
- 1 teaspoon of cumin
- 1 teaspoon of oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime wedges
Instructions:
- Prepare the chicken:
- Clean the chicken pieces under cool running water and pat them dry with paper towels.
- Season the chicken pieces with salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano.
- Cook the chicken:
- In a large pot, heat some oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken pieces and brown them on all sides.
- Remove the chicken from the pot and set it aside.
- Sauté the vegetables:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic.
- Cook until the onion is translucent.
- Add the rest of the ingredients:
- Return the chicken pieces to the pot.
- Add the carrots, potatoes, zucchini, tomato, corn, and enough water to cover the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Season to taste:
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve:
- Remove the pot from the heat and discard any excess fat that may have risen to the surface.
- Serve the caldo de pollo hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.
Tips and Variations:
Here are some additional tips and variations to enhance your caldo de pollo:
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to customize your caldo de pollo by adding other vegetables such as bell peppers, celery, or peas.
- Use chicken broth: For extra flavor, you can substitute some of the water with chicken broth.
- Make it spicy: If you like your soup spicy, add some chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
- Top with avocado: Serve your caldo de pollo with sliced avocado on top for a creamy and delicious addition.
- Pair with tortillas: Enjoy your caldo de pollo with warm tortillas or crusty bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
Conclusion:
Caldo de pollo is a classic Mexican soup that is a favorite among many for its savory flavors and nourishing ingredients. By following this simple recipe and incorporating your own personal touches, you can create a delicious pot of caldo de pollo that will warm your soul and satisfy your taste buds. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving a comforting meal, caldo de pollo is the perfect dish to enjoy any time of the year.
