Mexican Beef Soup
Mexican Beef Soup is a traditional, hearty soup packed with tender beef, vegetables, and a rich broth infused with bold spices. This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy meal and is often enjoyed with warm tortillas, lime, and fresh cilantro. Slow-cooked to perfection, this soup is deeply flavorful, nourishing, and satisfying—a true taste of home-cooked Mexican cuisine!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2-3 hours (stovetop) / 1 hour (Instant Pot)
Total Time: 2.5 – 3 hours
Servings: 6
Ingredients
For the Beef & Broth:
2 lbs beef shank or beef short ribs (bone-in for extra flavor)
8 cups water
1 small onion, quartered
4 cloves garlic, peeled
2 bay leaves
1 tbsp salt (adjust to taste)
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp cumin
1 tbsp beef bouillon (optional, for extra flavor)
For the Vegetables:
2 large carrots, sliced
2 medium potatoes, cut into chunks
2 ears of corn, cut into halves or thirds
1 zucchini, sliced
½ small cabbage, cut into wedges
2 Roma tomatoes, chopped
1-2 chiles (jalapeño or serrano, optional for spice)
¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
For Serving:
Lime wedges
Chopped fresh cilantro
Sliced avocado
Warm corn tortillas
Cooked rice (optional)
Instructions
Prepare the Broth
In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the beef shank, water, onion, garlic, bay leaves, salt, black pepper, cumin, and beef bouillon.
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, skimming off any foam that forms on the surface.
If using an Instant Pot, pressure cook on HIGH for 40 minutes, then do a natural release.
Add the Vegetables
Once the beef is tender, add carrots, potatoes, corn, and tomatoes. Simmer for 20 minutes.
Add the zucchini, cabbage, and optional chiles, cooking for 10 more minutes until all vegetables are tender.
Serve & Garnish
Remove the beef and shred it or leave it in large chunks.
Serve the soup in bowls, ensuring each portion has a mix of meat, broth, and vegetables.
Garnish with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and sliced avocado.
Enjoy with warm tortillas or rice on the side!
Tips & Variations
Extra Flavor:
Add a roasted guajillo or ancho chile for a smoky depth.
Faster Cooking:
Use an Instant Pot to cut down cooking time.
More Spice:
Add chipotle peppers in adobo for a smoky heat.
Protein Options:
Swap beef with chicken for a different take.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)
Calories: ~350
Protein: ~35g
Carbs: ~30g
Fat: ~12g
Fiber: ~6g
Sodium: ~600mg