Cocido Recipe (Mexican Beef Soup)
Ingredients
2 quarts water
3 pounds beef shank, cut
½ white onion, cut in wedges
3 garlic cloves, peeled
2 large carrots, peeled and cut into chunks
2 large ears of corn, husked, and cut across the cob into 1 ½ inch pieces
2 medium red skin potatoes, scrubbed and quartered
1 stalk celery, cut into 1 inch
⅓ head green cabbage, sliced
2 zucchini cut into 1-inch pieces
⅓ cup fresh cilantro leaves
Salt added to taste
Hot Sauce added to taste
Instructions
Begin to cook the meat in a pot of water.
At boiling point skim the impurities from the surface as appropriate.
Add the onion and garlic.
Reduce the heat and cook until the meat is tender, which takes about 2 hours.
Add salt to taste, then add the potatoes, corn, carrot, cabbage and celery and continue cooking for 15 to 20 minutes.
Add zucchini and cook just long enough until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
Before removing from flame add the cilantro leaves.
Serve.
Cocido Recipe Tips
Vegetables and Herbs must always be fresh, as this maintains the quality of flavor.
Wash the fruit with a brush or sponge, then disinfect for 15 minutes. Rinse and let them air out for a while before applying them to the recipe.
Nutrition Information:
YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1
Calories: 420
Total Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 130mg
Sodium: 220mg
Total Carbohydrates: 18g
Dietary Fiber: 3g
Sugars: 4g
Protein: 39g
Frequently Asked Questions:
Can I use a different cut of beef instead of beef shank for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other cuts of beef such as brisket, chuck roast, or stew meat.
However, beef shank is preferred for its rich flavor and tenderness when cooked in soups like cocido.
Is it necessary to skim impurities from the surface of the boiling water?
Skimming impurities helps to ensure a clearer and cleaner broth.
While it’s not strictly necessary, it can improve the overall appearance and flavor of the soup.
Can I add other vegetables to the cocido?
Yes, you can customize the cocido by adding other vegetables such as squash, green beans, or bell peppers.
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables to suit your taste preferences.
What type of hot sauce is recommended for serving with cocido?
Traditionally, a Mexican-style hot sauce such as salsa roja or salsa verde is served with cocido.
However, you can use any hot sauce of your choice, depending on your preferred level of heat and flavor.
How long can leftover cocido be stored in the refrigerator?
Leftover cocido can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
Reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Can I use a different type of meat instead of beef shank?
Yes, you can use other cuts of beef such as chuck roast or brisket.
You can also use chicken or pork if you prefer.
However, beef shank is traditional for cocido and adds rich flavor to the soup.
What if I don’t have beef shank?
If you don’t have beef shank, you can use other cuts of beef suitable for stewing or braising.
Look for cuts with good marbling and connective tissue, as they will add flavor and tenderness to the soup.
Can I make cocido in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker or Instant Pot.
Simply follow the instructions for cooking the meat and vegetables in your preferred appliance, adjusting the cooking times as needed.
What is the best way to store leftover cocido?
Leftover cocido can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
You can also freeze it for longer storage, for up to 3 months.
Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Is it necessary to use fresh herbs for cocido?
Using fresh herbs will enhance the flavor of the cocido, but you can also use dried herbs if fresh ones are not available.
Just remember to adjust the quantities, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.
How do I properly wash and disinfect vegetables for cocido?
To wash and disinfect vegetables, use a brush or sponge to scrub them under running water.
Then, soak them in a solution of water and vinegar or a vegetable wash for 15 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly with water and let them air dry before using in the recipe.
Can I add other vegetables to cocido?
Yes, you can customize cocido by adding other vegetables such as squash, green beans, or bell peppers.
Feel free to experiment with different vegetables to suit your taste preferences.
What type of hot sauce pairs well with cocido?
Traditional Mexican hot sauces such as salsa roja or salsa verde are commonly served with cocido.
However, you can use any hot sauce of your choice, depending on your preferred level of heat and flavor.
How do I adjust the seasoning of cocido to my taste?
Season cocido with salt and hot sauce according to your taste preferences.
Start with a small amount of each and adjust as needed after tasting the broth.
Can I make cocido ahead of time?
Yes, you can make cocido ahead of time and reheat it before serving.
In fact, cocido often tastes even better the next day as the flavors have had time to meld together.
Just store it properly in the refrigerator or freezer, and reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.