Caldito Recipe

Caldito is a hearty and flavorful dish that showcases the richness of browned ingredients, creating a comforting bowl of goodness. This recipe combines caramelized onions, tender potatoes, and seasoned ground beef, all simmered in a savory broth with a splash of beer for depth.

Perfect for warming up on a chilly day, Caldito is not only delicious but also tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers. Enjoy the rich flavors and the warmth of this beloved dish!

Caldito Recipe

Ingredients:

3-4 large onions, chopped

2-3 large potatoes, diced

1 lb ground beef

6-8 cloves garlic, minced

2-3 fresh chiles, peeled and chopped

4 cups chicken stock

1 can (14.5 oz) diced or crushed tomatoes

1 can (12 oz) beer (like Pacifico or Modelo)

Black pepper, to taste

Thyme, to taste

Salt, to taste

Instructions:

Brown the Onions:

In a large pot, sauté chopped onions over medium heat for 30-40 minutes until caramelized. Be patient and stir occasionally. Once done, set aside.

Brown the Potatoes:

In the same pot, add a bit of oil and brown the diced potatoes until golden. Set aside.

Brown the Ground Beef:

Brown the ground beef in the pot, adding minced garlic halfway through. Set aside once cooked.

Prepare the Chiles:

Peel and chop the chiles while the other ingredients are cooking.

Combine Ingredients:

In the pot, combine the browned onions, potatoes, ground beef, chopped chiles, chicken stock, diced/crushed tomatoes, and beer. Season with black pepper, thyme, and salt to taste.

Simmer:

Bring to a simmer and cook for 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Serve:

Caldito is best enjoyed the next day. Serve hot and enjoy!

Tips:

Flavor Development: Browning the ingredients is key to enhancing the flavor.

Storage: This dish keeps well and tastes even better the next day.

Notes:

Take Your Time: Browning the onions, potatoes, and ground beef enhances the flavor, so be patient and let them caramelize properly.

Chili Variety: Experiment with different types of chiles for varying heat levels and flavors. Anaheim or poblano chiles work well if you prefer milder options.

Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or corn for added texture and nutrition.

Use Quality Stock: A good-quality chicken stock can significantly enhance the overall flavor of the dish.

Beer Choice: The type of beer can affect the taste. A lighter lager adds a subtle flavor, while a darker beer will bring richness.

Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go and adjust the black pepper, thyme, and salt to suit your preference.

Let It Rest: Caldito tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld, making it ideal for leftovers.

Serving Suggestions: Pair with warm tortillas, rice, or crusty bread for a complete meal. A squeeze of lime adds a refreshing touch!

Garnishes: Consider topping with fresh cilantro, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and presentation.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

What type of meat can I use in Caldito?

You can use ground beef, turkey, or even shredded chicken.

For a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or plant-based meat alternatives.

Can I make Caldito ahead of time?

Yes! Caldito tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Is it possible to freeze Caldito?

Absolutely! Caldito can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.

How can I adjust the spice level?

To make it milder, use fewer chiles or choose milder varieties.

For extra heat, add more chiles or incorporate spices like cayenne pepper.

What can I serve with Caldito?

Caldito pairs well with warm tortillas, rice, or crusty bread.

You can also serve it with a side salad for a complete meal.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or corn to enhance the flavor and nutrition.

What type of beer should I use?

A light lager, such as Pacifico or Modelo, is recommended.

However, you can experiment with other types based on your taste preference.

How long should I simmer Caldito?

Simmer for about 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

You can simmer longer if you prefer a thicker consistency.

Is Caldito gluten-free?

The recipe is generally gluten-free if you use gluten-free beer and check the stock for gluten content.

Always verify the labels of your ingredients.

Can I use canned beans in this recipe?

Yes! Adding canned beans like black or pinto beans can boost protein and fiber.

Just rinse and drain them before adding to the pot.