Caldo de pollo mega

"Caldo de pollo" is a traditional Mexican chicken soup, often enjoyed for its comforting flavors and health benefits. The term "mega" suggests a larger or more extravagant version of the dish. Here's a simple recipe to create a hearty "mega" caldo de pollo: ### Mega Caldo de Pollo Recipe #### Ingredients: - **For the broth:** - 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 lbs), cut into pieces - 12 cups of water - 3 medium carrots, sliced - 2-3 stalks of celery, chopped - 1 large onion, quartered - 4 cloves of garlic, crushed - 2 bay leaves - Salt and pepper to taste - Fresh herbs (like cilantro or parsley) for garnish - **Additional ingredients:** - 2 medium potatoes, diced - 2 medium zucchini, sliced - 1 cup of corn (fresh, frozen, or canned) - 1-2 jalapeños or serrano peppers (optional, for heat) - Lime wedges, for serving - Tortilla chips or rice (optional, for serving) #### Instructions: 1. **Prepare the Broth:** - In a large pot, place the chicken pieces and cover with water. Add onion, garlic, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. - Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Skim any foam that forms on the surface. - Simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. 2. **Add Vegetables:** - Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside to cool. Strain the broth to remove solids. - Return the clear broth to the pot and add sliced carrots, celery, potatoes, zucchini, corn, and peppers (if using). Bring back to a simmer and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the vegetables are tender. 3. **Shred the Chicken:** - While the vegetables are cooking, shred the chicken meat into pieces, discarding the skin and bones. 4. **Combine and Serve:** - Add the shredded chicken back into the soup. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed. - Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs and lime wedges on the side. You can also add tortilla chips or rice for extra heartiness. ### Tips: - For a richer flavor, you can roast the vegetables and chicken in the oven before adding them to the broth. - Customize the soup by adding other vegetables like green beans, bell peppers, or peas. - Feel free to add spices like cumin or oregano for different flavor profiles. Enjoy your "mega" caldo de pollo! It’s perfect for family gatherings or a cold day.