Caldo de Costilla (Colombian Beef Rib Soup)

🧂 Ingredients

• 500g Beef ribs(Cut into individual ribs or 2-3 inch pieces.)
• 2 liters Water(Approximately 8 cups.)
• 4 medium Potatoes(Yukon Gold or similar waxy potatoes work well. Peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes.)
• 4 Scallions (Green Onions)(White and light green parts, roughly chopped. Reserve some green tops for garnish.)
• 3 cloves Garlic(Peeled and lightly smashed.)
• to taste Salt
• to taste Black Pepper
• 1 bunch Fresh Cilantro(Chopped, for garnish.)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the beef ribs, 2 liters of water, the chopped scallions (reserving some green tops), and the smashed garlic cloves. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.

   ⏱️ 10 minutes
2. 2

   Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface during the first 15-20 minutes. Continue to simmer for at least 45 minutes, or until the beef ribs are becoming tender.

   ⏱️ 45 minutes
3. 3

   Add the cubed potatoes to the simmering broth. Continue to cook, covered, for another 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender but not mushy.

   ⏱️ 20-25 minutes
4. 4

   Season the caldo generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Stir well and let it simmer for a final 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes
5. 5

   Ladle the hot soup into individual bowls, ensuring each serving gets a portion of beef ribs and potatoes. Garnish generously with fresh chopped cilantro and the reserved green parts of the scallions.

   ⏱️ 5 minutes

💡 Pro Tips

• ✓This soup is a beloved Colombian breakfast staple, often enjoyed to start the day.
• ✓It's considered a restorative and comforting dish, perfect for any time you need a warm, nourishing meal.
• ✓Using fresh, high-quality cilantro is key to the authentic flavor of this caldo.

🔄 Variations

• Add chunks of yuca (cassava) along with the potatoes for a different starchy element.
• Incorporate other vegetables like carrots or corn on the cob pieces during the last 20 minutes of cooking.
• For a richer broth, you can add a small piece of beef shank along with the ribs.

🥗 Nutrition

Per serving