How to Make a Mexican Caldo de Pollo

How to Make a Mexican Caldo de Pollo

Mexican Caldo de Pollo, or chicken soup, is a flavorful and comforting dish beloved throughout Mexico and beyond. It's perfect for chilly days or when you're feeling under the weather. This warm and nourishing soup combines tender chicken, vibrant vegetables, and aromatic spices. Follow this simple recipe to create your own homemade Caldo de Pollo.

Ingredients

  • 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds), cleaned and cut into pieces
  • 10 cups of water
  • 2 medium carrots, sliced
  • 2 medium potatoes, diced
  • 1 small onion, quartered
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 2 ears of corn, cut into halves
  • 1/2 cup of chopped cilantro
  • 2-3 bay leaves
  • 2 teaspoons of salt (or to taste)
  • 1 teaspoon of black pepper
  • Juice of 1 lime

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Broth

In a large pot, combine the whole chicken and 10 cups of water. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface. This helps to keep your broth clear and clean.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Once the broth is boiling, add the quartered onion, minced garlic, and bay leaves. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Step 3: Incorporate the Vegetables

Carefully remove the chicken pieces from the pot, and set them aside to cool slightly. Continue to simmer the broth, adding in the carrots, potatoes, and corn. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are just tender.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

While the vegetables are cooking, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces, discarding the skin and bones if desired. Add the shredded chicken back to the pot along with the zucchini and chopped cilantro. Cook for an additional 5-7 minutes until the zucchini is tender.

Step 5: Season the Soup

Add salt, black pepper, and lime juice to the soup. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary. The lime juice adds a refreshing brightness that elevates the flavors.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Caldo de Pollo hot, garnished with additional cilantro, lime wedges, and your favorite hot sauce. It pairs wonderfully with warm corn tortillas or crusty bread.

Conclusion

Making authentic Mexican Caldo de Pollo is not only an enjoyable cooking experience but also a rewarding way to provide comfort and warmth. This recipe can be easily customized with your favorite vegetables or spices, making it a versatile dish in any kitchen. Enjoy this delicious Mexican classic with family and friends!