Dive into the rich flavors of El Salvador with this traditional Sopa de Res, a beloved beef soup that's both comforting and nourishing. Slow-cooked to perfection, tender beef chunks mingle with an array of vibrant vegetables like carrots, potatoes, cabbage, and plantains, creating a symphony of textures and tastes. Seasoned with a blend of aromatic spices and fresh herbs, each spoonful transports you to the bustling streets of San Salvador or the tranquil countryside. Whether enjoyed as a soul-warming meal on a chilly evening or shared with loved ones during festive gatherings, this authentic Salvadoran dish promises a satisfying culinary experience that celebrates the warmth and richness of Central American cuisine.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb beef stew meat, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 1 plantain, peeled and sliced
• 2 tomatoes, diced
• 2 corn cobs, cut into rounds
• 2 cups cabbage, shredded
• 6 cups beef broth
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

1- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes.

2- Add the beef stew meat to the pot and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.

3- Stir in the diced tomatoes, sliced carrots, diced potatoes, sliced plantain, and corn rounds. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to slightly soften.

4- Pour in the beef broth, and add the cumin, dried oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

5- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beef is tender and the vegetables are cooked through.

6- Once the soup is ready, stir in the shredded cabbage and simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cabbage is tender.

7- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.

8- Remove the bay leaf from the soup before serving.

9- Ladle the Sopa de Res into bowls, garnish with chopped cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the soup.

10- Enjoy your delicious El Salvador Sopa de Res!

This hearty beef soup is perfect for warming up on a chilly day and is sure to be a hit with family and friends.

Nutritional Values :

Beef stew meat (3 oz serving):

• Calories: 213 kcal
• Protein: 23 g
• Fat: 13 g
• Iron: 2.3 mg
• Vitamin B12: 2.2 mcg

benefits

• Excellent source of protein, essential for muscle growth and repair.
• Rich in iron, which helps transport oxygen in the blood.
• Contains B vitamins, important for energy production and nerve function.

Carrots (1 medium carrot, about 61g):

• Calories: 25 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 6 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Vitamin A: 509 mcg (53% DV)
• Vitamin C: 3.6 mg (4% DV)

benefits

• High in beta-carotene, which is converted to vitamin A in the body and essential for vision health.
• Good source of fiber, promoting digestive health and aiding in weight management.
• Contains antioxidants that may reduce the risk of certain chronic diseases.

Potatoes (1 medium potato, about 213g):

• Calories: 164 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 37 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Potassium: 897 mg (19% DV)
• Vitamin C: 28 mg (31% DV)

benefits

• Rich in complex carbohydrates, providing sustained energy.
• Good source of vitamin C, supporting immune function and collagen production.
• Contains potassium, important for maintaining blood pressure and muscle function

Plantains (1 medium plantain, about 179g):

• Calories: 218 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 57 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Potassium: 893 mg (19% DV)
• Vitamin C: 27 mg (30% DV)

benefits

• High in dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and regulating blood sugar levels.
• Rich in vitamins A and C, supporting immune function and skin health.
• Contains minerals like potassium and magnesium, which are important for heart health and muscle function.

Tomatoes (1 medium tomato, about 123g):

• Calories: 22 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 5 g
• Fiber: 1 g
• Vitamin A: 1025 IU (21% DV)
• Vitamin C: 15 mg (17% DV)

benefits

• High in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant associated with reducing the risk of certain cancers.
• Good source of vitamin C, supporting immune function and skin health.
• Contains potassium, important for heart health and blood pressure regulation.

Cabbage (1 cup shredded, about 89g):

• Calories: 22 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 5 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Vitamin K: 34 mcg (28% DV)
• Vitamin C: 28 mg (31% DV)

benefits:

• Low in calories and high in fiber, aiding in digestion and weight management.
• Rich in vitamin K, important for bone health and blood clotting.
• Contains antioxidants that may reduce inflammation and lower the risk of chronic diseases.

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary depending on various factors. It's always a good idea to refer to specific product labels or use a nutritional calculator for precise values.