Here’s a warm, comforting, authentic Caldo de Arroz con Carne Molida—a simple Mexican-style soup made with ground beef, rice, vegetables, and a light tomato broth. Perfect for cold days or an easy weekday meal.
🍲 Caldo de Arroz con Carne Molida
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 cup uncooked white rice (rinsed)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 Roma tomatoes, blended or finely chopped (or ½ cup tomato sauce)
- 1–2 carrots, diced
- 1–2 potatoes, diced
- 1 zucchini (calabacita), diced (optional but traditional)
- ½ cup peas or corn (optional)
- 6–7 cups beef broth or water
- 1–2 tbsp oil
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 1 tsp cumin (optional)
- 1 tsp oregano (optional)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Lime for serving
Instructions
1. Brown the Meat
- Heat oil in a pot.
- Add ground beef and cook until browned.
- Season lightly with salt and pepper.
- Drain excess fat if needed.
2. Add Aromatics
- Stir in diced onion and garlic.
- Cook until softened and fragrant.
3. Add Tomato Base
- Pour in blended tomatoes or tomato sauce.
- Cook 3–4 minutes to develop flavor.
4. Add Rice & Broth
- Add the rinsed rice and mix it into the meat mixture.
- Pour in broth or water.
- Add cumin and oregano if using.
- Bring to a boil.
5. Add Vegetables
- Add carrots, potatoes, and any other vegetables you like.
- Reduce heat and simmer 20–25 minutes, until rice and veggies are tender.
- Add zucchini and peas in the last 8–10 minutes (they cook faster).
6. Finish
- Adjust salt and pepper.
- Add fresh cilantro at the end.
- Let it rest 5 minutes before serving so everything settles.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with warm tortillas
- Add a squeeze of lime
- Top with avocado slices
- Spoon in some salsa for heat
If you want, I can also give you:
✨ A spicier version
✨ A budget-friendly version
✨ A one-pot Instant Pot version
✨ A recipe card or short TikTok-style steps
