Carne Caldo Recipe

Ingredients:

3 lbs of hamburger meat I’ve also used beef or pork stew meat(sear meat)

4-5 potatoes

1 med yellow onion chopped

1-2 fresh jalapeño pepper sliced

2 cloves garlic minced.

1 tsp cumin

4 tbsp of tomato sauce

I beef bullion cube

1 tomato bullion cube

1 can of rotel

water – enough to cover meat and potatoes

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Cook meat and remove all juices except about a cup

Add Cut up potatoes, onions, jalapeños, garlic

Add enough water to almost cover meat and potatoes.

Then Add rotel, bullion cubes, tomato sauce, cumin, salt and pepper.

Bring to a boil then Cover with lid.

Simmer for at least 30 minutes or so until potatoes are cooked stirring occasionally.

Notes:

Versatile Meat Options: The recipe allows for flexibility in meat choices, including hamburger meat, beef, or pork stew meat, offering versatility for different flavor profiles and dietary preferences.

Adjustable Spice Levels: The spiciness of the dish can be easily adjusted by varying the amount of jalapeño pepper used, accommodating both those who enjoy mild flavors and those who prefer a bit more heat.

Ingredient Substitutions: Substituting fresh tomatoes for tomato sauce offers a fresher flavor option, providing an alternative for those who prefer to use whole, fresh ingredients in their cooking.

Make-Ahead Convenience: Carne Caldo can be made ahead of time and reheated, making it a convenient option for meal prep or entertaining, allowing for stress-free preparation and serving.

Customizable Potato Quantity: The recipe suggests using 4-5 potatoes, but this quantity can be adjusted based on personal preference and the desired ratio of potatoes to meat in the dish.

Controlled Spiciness: The spiciness of the dish can be controlled by adjusting the quantity of jalapeño peppers used, allowing for a tailored flavor experience according to individual taste preferences.

Simmering Time: Simmering the Carne Caldo for at least 30 minutes ensures that the flavors meld together and the potatoes become tender. However, the simmering time can be extended for a richer flavor if desired.

Hearty and Nourishing: Carne Caldo is a hearty and nourishing dish that combines protein-rich meat with nutrient-dense vegetables like potatoes and onions, providing a satisfying and balanced meal option.

Cultural Influence: The use of ingredients like cumin and jalapeño peppers reflects the recipe’s Mexican culinary influence, offering a taste of traditional flavors and cooking techniques.

Nutrition Information:

YIELD: 4 servings | SERVING SIZE: 1

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use a different type of meat in this recipe?

Yes, you can use beef or pork stew meat instead of hamburger meat.

It’s a versatile recipe that allows for variations in the choice of meat.

Can I adjust the spiciness level?

Absolutely! You can control the spiciness by adjusting the amount of jalapeño pepper used.

Add more or fewer slices according to your preference.

Can I substitute fresh tomatoes for the tomato sauce?

Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato sauce.

Simply dice the tomatoes and add them to the recipe.

Adjust the quantity based on your taste preferences.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the Carne Caldo ahead of time and reheat it when needed.

It’s a great dish for meal prep or for serving at gatherings.

Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

How many potatoes should I use?

The recipe suggests using 4-5 potatoes.

You can adjust the quantity based on the size of the potatoes and your preference for the potato-to-meat ratio.

How spicy is the dish with the jalapeño peppers?

The spiciness of the dish will depend on the number and size of the jalapeño peppers used.

Adjust the quantity according to your desired level of spiciness.

How long should I simmer the Carne Caldo?

Simmer the Carne Caldo for at least 30 minutes or until the potatoes are cooked and tender.

However, you can simmer it longer if you prefer a richer flavor.