Discover the authentic taste of Sopa de Mondongo, a rich and hearty tripe soup perfect for a comforting meal. This traditional recipe features tender beef tripe cooked with a medley of fresh vegetables and aromatic spices, creating a flavorful and satisfying dish. Ideal for family dinners or special occasions, Sopa de Mondongo combines time-honored ingredients and techniques for a true taste of comfort food. Follow our step-by-step guide to make this beloved classic in your own kitchen!

Ingredients:

- 1 lb beef tripe, cleaned and cut into bite-sized pieces

- 1/2 lb beef shank or oxtail (optional, for added flavor)

- 1 large onion, chopped

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 large bell pepper, chopped

- 2 medium tomatoes, diced

- 2 carrots, sliced

- 1 potato, peeled and cubed

- 1/2 cup hominy corn (optional)

- 1 cup cabbage, shredded

- 1 tsp ground cumin

- 1 tsp paprika

- 1/2 tsp dried oregano

- 1 bay leaf

- Salt and black pepper, to taste

- 2 tbsp vegetable oil

- 4 cups beef or chicken broth

- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

- Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions:

Prepare the Tripe:

  - Rinse the beef tripe under cold water. In a large pot, bring water to a boil, add the tripe, and cook for 10 minutes. Drain and rinse again. This step helps to reduce any strong odor.

Cook the Meat:

  - In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the beef shank or oxtail, if using, and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables:

  - In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the diced tomatoes and cook for another 5 minutes.

Add Spices and Broth:

  - Add the ground cumin, paprika, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine. Return the browned meat to the pot and pour in the beef or chicken broth.

Simmer:

  - Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the meat is tender.

Add Vegetables:

  - Add the carrots, potato, hominy corn (if using), and cabbage to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 30 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.

Finish and Serve:

  - Adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro before serving. Serve hot with lime wedges on the side.

Enjoy your delicious Sopa de Mondongo with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal!

Nutritional Values

Beef Tripe

- Calories: 90 kcal

- Protein: 11g

- Fat: 4g

- Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

- High in Protein: Supports muscle repair and growth.

- Low in Carbohydrates: Suitable for low-carb diets.

Beef Shank or Oxtail (Optional)

- Calories: 242 kcal

- Protein: 26g

- Fat: 15g

- Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

- High in Protein: Essential for muscle health.

- Rich in Iron: Supports red blood cell production.

Onion

- Calories: 40 kcal

- Protein: 1g

- Fat: 0.1g

- Carbohydrates: 9g

- Fiber: 1.7g

Benefits:

- Rich in Antioxidants: Helps reduce inflammation.

- High in Fiber: Supports digestive health.

Garlic

- Calories: 149 kcal

- Protein: 6g

- Fat: 0.5g

- Carbohydrates: 33g

- Fiber: 2.1g

Benefits:

- Contains Allicin: Offers antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties.

- Supports Heart Health: May help reduce blood pressure and cholesterol.

Bell Pepper

- Calories: 20 kcal

- Protein: 1g

- Fat: 0.2g

- Carbohydrates: 5g

- Fiber: 2g

- Vitamin C: 80 mg (133% DV)

Benefits:

- Rich in Vitamin C: Boosts immune function.

- Contains Antioxidants: Helps protect against oxidative stress.

Tomatoes

- Calories: 18 kcal

- Protein: 0.9g

- Fat: 0.2g

- Carbohydrates: 3.9g

- Vitamin C: 14 mg (23% DV)

- Lycopene: 2573 mcg

Benefits:

- High in Antioxidants: Lycopene supports heart health.

- Supports Skin Health: Vitamin C promotes collagen production.

Carrots

- Calories: 41 kcal

- Protein: 0.9g

- Fat: 0.2g

- Carbohydrates: 10g

- Fiber: 2.8g

- Vitamin A: 835 mcg (93% DV)

Benefits:

- Rich in Vitamin A: Supports vision and immune function.

- High in Fiber: Aids in digestion.

Potato

- Calories: 77 kcal

- Protein: 2g

- Fat: 0.1g

- Carbohydrates: 17g

- Fiber: 2.2g

Benefits:

- High in Carbohydrates: Provides energy.

- Contains Vitamin C: Supports immune health.

Hominy Corn (Optional)

- Calories: 100 kcal

- Protein: 2g

- Fat: 1g

- Carbohydrates: 22g

- Fiber: 2g

Benefits:

- Provides Energy: High in carbohydrates.

- Contains B Vitamins: Supports overall metabolism.

Cabbage

- Calories: 25 kcal

- Protein: 1.3g

- Fat: 0.1g

- Carbohydrates: 6g

- Fiber: 2.5g

- Vitamin C: 36 mg (60% DV)

Benefits:

- Rich in Vitamin C: Supports immune function.

- High in Fiber: Aids in digestion and promotes satiety.

Ground Cumin

- Calories: 375 kcal

- Protein: 18g

- Fat: 22g

- Carbohydrates: 44g

Benefits:

- Supports Digestion: May help with digestive issues.

- Rich in Antioxidants: Helps fight inflammation.

Paprika

- Calories: 282 kcal

- Protein: 14g

- Fat: 13g

- Carbohydrates: 54g

Benefits:

- Rich in Vitamins A and C: Supports vision and immune health.

- Contains Antioxidants: Helps reduce oxidative stress.

Dried Oregano

- Calories: 265 kcal

- Protein: 9g

- Fat: 7g

- Carbohydrates: 64g

Benefits:

- Rich in Antioxidants: Supports overall health and immunity.

- Contains Essential Oils: May have antimicrobial properties.

Bay Leaf

- Calories: 313 kcal

- Protein: 7g

- Fat: 8g

- Carbohydrates: 75g

Benefits:

- Supports Digestion: Helps relieve digestive issues.

- Contains Antioxidants: Helps protect against oxidative stress.

Salt and Black Pepper

- Calories: 0 kcal

- Sodium: 38,000 mg

Nutritional Values (per 100g black pepper):

- Calories: 255 kcal

- Protein: 10g

- Fat: 3g

- Carbohydrates: 64g

Benefits:

- Salt: Essential for electrolyte balance but should be used in moderation.

- Black Pepper: Contains piperine, which can enhance nutrient absorption and provide antioxidant benefits.

Vegetable Oil

- Calories: 884 kcal

- Protein: 0g

- Fat: 100g

- Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

- Provides Essential Fatty Acids: Supports overall health.

- Versatile Cooking Medium: Helps in cooking and flavoring.

Beef or Chicken Broth

- Calories: 5-10 kcal

- Protein: 1g

- Fat: 0g

- Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

- Low in Calories: Adds flavor without extra calories.

- Nutrient-Rich: Provides minerals and electrolytes, especially if homemade.

Fresh Cilantro (for garnish)

- Calories: 23 kcal

- Protein: 2g

- Fat: 0.5g

- Carbohydrates: 4g

Benefits:

- Rich in Vitamins A and C: Supports skin and immune health.

- Contains Antioxidants: Helps protect against inflammation and oxidative stress.

Lime Wedges (for serving)

- Calories: 30 kcal

- Protein: 0.6g

- Fat: 0.2g

- Carbohydrates: 11g

- Vitamin C: 29 mg (48% DV)

Benefits:

- Rich in Vitamin C: Boosts immune function and skin health.

- Adds Flavor: Enhances taste without extra calories.

These ingredients each provide essential nutrients and contribute to a balanced and flavorful dish.