Menudo
Menudo is a traditional Mexican soup made with beef tripe and a flavorful broth seasoned with red chili sauce. It's often enjoyed on special occasions and is known for its unique flavors and hearty ingredients.
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Illustrated cooking guide
Step-by-step visual method
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Written method
Instructions
Read through once, then cook at your own pace with the illustrated guide above.
- 1
In a large pot, combine the cleaned beef tripe, chopped onion, minced garlic, and beef broth. Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
- 2
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 2 hours, or until the tripe is tender, skimming off any foam that rises to the surface.
- 3
While the tripe is cooking, prepare the red chili sauce by boiling the dried guajillo chiles in water for about 10 minutes until softened. Drain and blend the chiles with a bit of the cooking water until smooth.
- 4
Add the blended chili sauce, oregano, and ground cumin to the pot. Stir well to combine the ingredients.
- 5
In the last 30 minutes of cooking, add the hominy to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed before serving.
Cook notes
Tips
For added flavor, serve with chopped onions and cilantro on the side.
Make sure to clean the tripe thoroughly; this step is crucial for flavor.
If you prefer a spicier broth, add more guajillo chiles or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Cook smarter
Helpful notes
Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat on the stove, adding a little broth if it's too thick.
- Freeze portions for up to 3 months in freezer-safe containers.
Substitutions
- Use beef shank instead of tripe for a different texture.
- Canned hominy can be used if you don't have dried hominy.
- Swap dried guajillo chiles for ancho chiles if needed.
What to Serve With
- Chopped onions and cilantro for garnish
- Warm corn tortillas on the side
- Lime wedges for squeezing over the soup
Common Mistakes
- Skimming off foam during cooking helps keep the broth clear and clean.
- Not seasoning adequately can result in bland flavors, so adjust seasoning at the end.
- Overcooking the tripe can make it too soft; check for tenderness.
Recipe FAQ
What is menudo traditionally served with?
Menudo is traditionally served with chopped onions, cilantro, and lime on the side.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute beef tripe with beef shank or pork if preferred.
How can I store leftover menudo?
Store leftover menudo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Kitchen tools
Helpful Tools for This Recipe
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Blender
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Saucepan
Useful for simmering sauces, soups, grains, and small-batch stews.
Chef knife
A basic prep tool for vegetables, herbs, aromatics, and proteins.
Cutting board
Keeps prep organized for chopping, slicing, and staging ingredients.
Measuring spoons
Useful for balancing spices, salt, acids, and sauces.
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