Dive into the heart of Mexican cuisine with a bowl of Caldo de Pollo con Papa, a comforting chicken and potatoes broth that warms both the body and soul. This traditional dish is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings families together around the table. Imagine tender chicken simmered to perfection, surrounded by hearty potatoes and vibrant vegetables, all enveloped in a rich, aromatic broth. Whether you're seeking a cozy dinner or a remedy for a chilly day, this recipe promises to deliver satisfaction in every spoonful. Ready to uncover the secrets to this delicious dish? Let’s get cooking!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 50 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 3 potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 4 cups water
- 1 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken by rinsing it thoroughly under cold water and patting dry with paper towels. Season the chicken pieces generously with salt, pepper, and dried oregano.
- In a large heavy-bottomed pot, place the seasoned chicken pieces and add 4 cups of cold water. Bring the liquid to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, carefully skimming off any foam that rises to the surface.
- Once the initial foam is removed, add the quartered onion and reduce the heat to medium-low. Allow the chicken to simmer gently for about 25-30 minutes, creating a flavorful base broth.
- Add the sliced carrots and cubed potatoes to the pot. Continue simmering for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Test the chicken for doneness by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the meat easily pulls away from the bone.
- Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. The broth should have a rich, comforting flavor.
- Carefully remove the chicken pieces and vegetables onto a serving platter. Ladle the hot broth over the chicken and vegetables.
- Garnish generously with fresh chopped cilantro just before serving. Serve hot with warm corn tortillas on the side.
Tips
- Choose the Right Chicken: For the best flavor, opt for a whole chicken or bone-in pieces. The bones add depth to the broth, making it richer and more satisfying.
- Don’t Rush the Simmer: Allow the chicken to simmer gently. This slow cooking process extracts all the flavors, resulting in a broth that is both savory and comforting.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste the broth before serving and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference. A well-seasoned broth enhances all the ingredients and makes the dish truly delightful.
- Add Fresh Herbs: While cilantro is a classic garnish, feel free to experiment with other herbs like parsley or even a squeeze of lime for an extra layer of flavor.
- Serve with Corn Tortillas: For an authentic touch, serve your Caldo de Pollo with warm corn tortillas on the side. They are perfect for dipping into the broth or enjoying alongside the chicken and potatoes.
- Make it Ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day! Make a larger batch and store leftovers in the fridge for a quick and satisfying meal later on.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 467kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 100mg