Mexican Beef and Vegetable Soup (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the Stock

01 - 3 pounds beef shank (or short rib/beef chuck)
02 - 8-10 cups water
03 - 1 large onion, roughly chopped
04 - 2 celery stalks, roughly chopped
05 - 10 cloves garlic, roughly chopped
06 - 5 chile de arbol peppers (optional)
07 - 3 bay leaves
08 - 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
09 - 1 tablespoon salt

→ Vegetables

10 - 3 potatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces
11 - 2 carrots, cut into bite-sized pieces
12 - 2 zucchini, cut into bite-sized pieces
13 - 2 jalapeño peppers, sliced (optional)
14 - 2 ears corn, quartered
15 - 3 medium tomatoes, cut into bite-sized pieces
16 - ¼ head cabbage, chopped
17 - 8 ounces tomato sauce

→ Finishing and Garnish

18 - Juice from 1 lime
19 - Red pepper flakes to taste
20 - Fresh cilantro for garnish
21 - Hot sauce to serve
22 - Lime wedges for serving

# Instructions:

01 - Put your beef, water, and stock vegetables (onion, celery, garlic) in a big pot with the spices. Bring it to a boil, then let it simmer covered for about 2 hours until the meat's tender.
02 - Take out the beef, shred it, and set aside. Strain your stock and throw away the used vegetables and spices.
03 - Bring that stock back to a simmer and cook your potatoes and carrots for about 20 minutes.
04 - Toss in the zucchini, jalapeños, corn, tomatoes, cabbage, and tomato sauce. Cook about 10 more minutes.
05 - Put the shredded beef back in, add lime juice, and adjust your seasonings.
06 - Ladle into bowls and let everyone garnish with red pepper flakes, cilantro, hot sauce, and lime wedges.

# Notes:

01 - This hearty Mexican beef soup (Caldo de Res) features tender beef and fresh vegetables in a rich, flavorful broth.