Imagine a steaming bowl of rich, spicy broth packed with chewy tripe, fragrant herbs, and plump hominy. Add a squeeze of lime, a sprinkle of chopped onions, and a handful of cilantro, and you’ve got a dish that’s been a Sunday tradition in Mexico for generations: menudo soup.
If you’ve ever been curious about this classic Mexican soup menudo — or maybe you’ve heard it’s the ultimate cure for a hangover — you’re in for a treat. Menudo Mexican soup is more than just a meal; it’s a culinary experience steeped in culture, tradition, and flavor.
Ready to dive into the world of menudo tripe and learn how to make this bold and hearty dish? Let’s go!
Menudo Soup
Ingredients
For the Soup Base:
- 2 pounds beef honeycomb tripe
- 2 tablespoons lime juice for cleaning the tripe
- 1 pork trotter adds rich flavor
- 1 tablespoon Mexican oregano
- 2 bay leaves
- 10 cloves garlic crushed
- 1 large white onion chopped
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
For the Chile Broth:
- 8 dried New Mexico or guajillo chiles
- 1-2 cups simmering broth to blend the chiles
For Serving:
- Lime wedges
- Chopped white onion
- Fresh cilantro
- Serrano chiles for extra heat
- Warm corn tortillas
Instructions
- Clean the Tripe: Tripe needs a good scrub! Rinse it thoroughly in warm water, then soak it in lime juice and salt for 30 minutes. Rinse again until the tripe is clean and fresh-smelling.
- Boil the Tripe and Trotter: Cut the tripe into bite-sized pieces. Place the tripe and pork trotter in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Boil for 5 minutes, then drain and rinse to remove impurities.
- Simmer the Broth: In a clean pot, combine the tripe, pork trotter, oregano, bay leaves, garlic, and half the onion. Add 12 cups of water and simmer for 2-3 hours until the tripe is tender.
- Prepare the Chile Sauce: Toast the dried chiles in a skillet until fragrant. Soak them in boiling water for 15 minutes, then blend with garlic, onion, and cumin. Strain the sauce into the pot and stir well.
- Add the Hominy: Drain the hominy and add it to the soup. Simmer for another 30 minutes to let all the flavors meld together.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot menudo soup into bowls and top with fresh lime juice, chopped onions, cilantro, and serrano chiles. Serve with warm tortillas for dipping.
Notes
- Cleaning the Tripe: Proper cleaning ensures no gamey taste.
- Broth Flavor: Simmering for a long time develops a rich, complex flavor.
- Garnishes: Don’t skip lime, onions, and cilantro; they balance the rich broth.
Why You Should Try Menudo Soup
Rich in Tradition
Menudo isn’t just a dish — it’s a cultural staple. In Mexico, families gather on weekends to share a bowl, swap stories, and bond over this hearty soup.
Ultimate Comfort Food
Feeling under the weather or just craving something warm and filling? Menudo tripe soup is like a Mexican grandmother’s remedy for all ailments.
Flavor Explosion
The combination of smoky chiles, tender tripe, and savory broth creates a taste that’s both complex and satisfying.
Tips for Perfect Menudo
- Clean the Tripe Thoroughly: This ensures your soup has no gamey flavor.
- Don’t Skip the Garnishes: Lime, onion, and cilantro brighten up the rich broth.
- Take Your Time: Great menudo takes hours to develop its deep, layered flavor.
Menudo Soup: More Than Just a Hangover Cure
While menudo is famous for its reputation as a hangover cure, its real magic lies in its ability to bring people together. Whether you’re making it for a special occasion or a cozy Sunday morning, this Mexican soup menudo is a labor of love that pays off with every spoonful.
So, are you ready to try making your own pot of menudo Mexican soup? Gather your ingredients, set aside some time, and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of this traditional dish.
Craving More Mexican-Inspired Recipes?
If Menudo’s hearty and comforting flavors have left you craving more, why not explore these other Mexican-inspired dishes? Whether you’re in the mood for something savory, spicy, or a little indulgent, these recipes bring the authentic taste of Mexico right to your kitchen.
Cozy up with this warm, spiced drink made from authentic Mexican chocolate. It’s rich, creamy, and perfect for a chilly evening—or anytime you’re looking for a comforting treat!
Looking for a healthy twist on a classic? These enchiladas trade traditional tortillas for zucchini slices, stuffed with shredded chicken, enchilada sauce, and gooey cheese. A guilt-free way to satisfy your enchilada cravings!
Kick-start your morning with this vibrant breakfast featuring crispy tortillas, sunny-side-up eggs, and a fresh pico de gallo salsa. A simple yet delicious way to infuse your day with bold Mexican flavors!
Which of these recipes are you most excited to try? Drop a comment below or tag us on Instagram with your creations—we’d love to see what you whip up!
Did you make this Recipe?
Please let me know how this recipe turned out for you! Leave a comment below, tag @foodiecreator on Instagram, and hashtag #foodiecreator.
