Sopa de Mondongo, a traditional Latin American dish, is a hearty tripe soup infused with vegetables and aromatic spices. Originating from Spain, it has evolved into a beloved staple across various Latin American countries, each adding its own unique twist. The dish typically features tender strips of tripe simmered in a flavorful broth alongside a medley of vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and bell peppers. Seasoned with herbs and spices such as cilantro, cumin, and oregano, it offers a comforting and nourishing meal, often enjoyed during festive occasions or as a comforting remedy during colder seasons. Its rich history reflects the culinary fusion and cultural heritage of the regions where it is cherished, making it a cherished symbol of tradition and community.

Ingredients:

- 1 lb (450g) beef tripe, cleaned and sliced into thin strips

- 1 onion, diced

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 carrot, diced

- 1 potato, diced

- 1 bell pepper, diced

- 1 tomato, diced

- 6 cups (1.5 liters) beef or chicken broth

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon dried oregano

- 1 bay leaf

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

- Lime wedges for serving

Method:

1. In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and cook until softened.

2. Add the sliced tripe to the pot and cook until it begins to brown slightly.

3. Stir in the diced carrot, potato, bell pepper, and tomato, and cook for a few minutes.

4. Pour in the beef or chicken broth, and add the ground cumin, dried oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.

5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the tripe is tender.

6. Once the tripe is tender, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

7. Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro and accompanied by lime wedges for squeezing over the soup before eating. Enjoy!

Nutrition Value:

1. Beef Tripe (1 lb / 450g):

  - Calories: Approximately 340 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: 0g

  - Protein: Approximately 70g

  - Fat: Approximately 7g

  - Sodium: Varies depending on preparation

  - Cholesterol: Approximately 350mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Excellent source of protein, iron, and vitamin B12. Low in carbohydrates and high in collagen, which supports joint health.

2. Onion (1 medium):

  - Calories: Approximately 44 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 10g

  - Protein: Approximately 1g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Sodium: Approximately 4mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: High in antioxidants, particularly quercetin, and vitamin C. Also contains fiber, which supports digestive health.

3. Garlic (2 cloves):

  - Calories: Approximately 8 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 2g

  - Protein: Approximately 0.4g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Sodium: Approximately 1mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Contains allicin, a compound with antibacterial and antiviral properties. Also rich in manganese, vitamin B6, and vitamin C.

4. Carrot (1 medium):

  - Calories: Approximately 25 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 6g

  - Protein: Approximately 0.5g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Sodium: Approximately 42mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: High in beta-carotene, which is converted into vitamin A in the body and supports eye health. Also a good source of fiber and vitamin K.

5. Potato (1 medium):

  - Calories: Approximately 110 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 26g

  - Protein: Approximately 3g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Sodium: Approximately 10mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Good source of vitamin C, potassium, and vitamin B6. Provides energy from carbohydrates and contains moderate amounts of fiber.

6. Bell Pepper (1 medium):

  - Calories: Approximately 25 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 6g

  - Protein: Approximately 1g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Sodium: Approximately 1mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: High in vitamin C and antioxidants, particularly beta-carotene and quercetin. Also contains fiber and supports immune health.

7. Tomato (1 medium):

  - Calories: Approximately 22 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 5g

  - Protein: Approximately 1g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Sodium: Approximately 6mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Excellent source of lycopene, an antioxidant associated with reduced risk of certain cancers. Also contains vitamin C, potassium, and fiber.

8. Beef or Chicken Broth (6 cups / 1.5 liters):

  - Nutritional content varies depending on preparation and ingredients used. Generally provides:

  - Calories: Approximately 30-50 kcal per cup

  - Carbohydrates: Varies

  - Protein: Varies

  - Fat: Varies

  - Sodium: Approximately 600-800mg per cup

  - Cholesterol: Varies

  - Nutritional Benefits: Provides hydration and flavor to the soup. May contain nutrients from bones, vegetables, and seasonings used in preparation.

9. Ground Cumin (1 teaspoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 8 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 1.3g

  - Protein: Approximately 0.4g

  - Fat: Approximately 0.4g

  - Sodium: Approximately 1mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Contains antioxidants and may aid digestion. Also adds flavor to dishes and is a good source of iron and manganese.

10. Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon):

  - Calories: Approximately 3 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 0.6g

  - Protein: Approximately 0.1g

  - Fat: Approximately 0.1g

  - Sodium: Approximately 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Rich in antioxidants and antimicrobial properties. Contains vitamins and minerals like vitamin K, iron, and manganese.

11. Bay Leaf (1 leaf):

  - Calories: Approximately 2 kcal

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 0.5g

  - Protein: Approximately 0.1g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Sodium: Approximately 1mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Contains essential oils and antioxidants. May aid in digestion and provide mild flavor enhancement to dishes.

12. Salt and Pepper (to taste):

  - Salt: Moderation is key to control sodium intake.

  - Pepper: Negligible in terms of nutritional content but adds flavor to the dish.

13. Chopped Fresh Cilantro (for garnish):

  - Calories: Approximately 1 kcal per tablespoon

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 0.1g

  - Protein: Approximately 0.1g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Sodium: Approximately 1mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Contains antioxidants and may aid digestion. Adds fresh flavor and aroma to the dish.

14. Lime Wedges (for serving):

  - Calories: Approximately 1 kcal per wedge

  - Carbohydrates: Approximately 0.4g

  - Protein: Approximately 0.1g

  - Fat: Approximately 0g

  - Sodium: Approximately 0mg

  - Cholesterol: 0mg

  - Nutritional Benefits: Excellent source of vitamin C. Adds acidity and freshness to the dish.

These nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on factors such as cooking methods and specific brands of ingredients used.