Caldo De Pollo

🍳 Ingredients

• 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces (or 4–6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs)
• 8 cups water
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup chopped tomatoes (fresh or canned)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving
• Optional: cooked rice or noodles

👨‍🍳 Directions

1. 1
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until translucent and fragrant.
2. 2
   Add chicken pieces and season with salt, pepper, oregano, cumin, and bay leaf. Cook until chicken starts to brown, about 5–7 minutes.
3. 3
   Pour in water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30–60 minutes until chicken is tender and falls off the bone.
4. 4
   Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.
5. 5
   Add tomatoes, carrots, and potatoes. Simmer for 15–20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
6. 6
   Add zucchini and simmer for another 5 minutes until just cooked but still slightly firm.
7. 7
   Taste and adjust seasoning. Add cooked rice or noodles if desired and heat through.
8. 8
   Remove bay leaf. Ladle into bowls, garnish with cilantro, and serve with lime wedges.

🌿 Health Benefits

Caldo de Pollo is a nutritious and well-balanced soup combining lean protein from chicken, vitamins and minerals from vegetables, and energy-sustaining carbohydrates. The broth provides hydration and warmth while aiding digestion. Vegetables add fiber, antioxidants, and essential nutrients that support immune function and overall well-being.

📚 History

Caldo de Pollo is a traditional Mexican soup whose name literally means “chicken broth.” The dish has been a beloved part of Mexican cuisine for centuries, likely created as a way to use leftover chicken and vegetables. It became a comforting and nourishing staple enjoyed by families throughout Mexico. Today it remains popular across Mexico and worldwide, often served with tortillas or rice and seasoned with regional spices and herbs.

❓ Quiz