Caldillo

Caldillo Recipe: A Delicious Panamanian Delight

Region / culture: Panama | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Caldillo is a traditional soup from Panama that is both hearty and flavorful. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in or for entertaining guests. The combination of fresh vegetables, eggs, and spices creates a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

Caldillo has been a staple in Panamanian cuisine for generations. It is a dish that is often enjoyed during special occasions and family gatherings. The recipe has been passed down from one generation to the next, with each family adding their own unique twist to the dish.

Ingredients

3 green peppers
0.5 cup chopped green onions
4 large ripe tomatoes, chopped
1 small can tomato paste (6 oz (170 g))
8 cups of consommé or chicken broth
cayenne pepper or aji chombo
salt and pepper
cream or evaporated milk
12 eggs

How to prepare

In a large heavy pot, sauté the vegetables in a small amount of butter for approximately 5 minutes. Then, add the tomato paste and cook slowly until well blended and the vegetables become soft.
Next, add the cayenne pepper or aji chombo, and season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
Pour in the consommé and bring it to a boil. Let it simmer for a while.
Around 10 minutes before serving, crack the eggs separately and add them two at a time to the simmering soup.
Once the eggs are set, remove them and place each one in six individual bowls. Pour approximately 0.33 cup of warm milk or cream into each bowl, filling it with the caldillo soup.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or shrimp for a protein boost.
Use coconut milk instead of evaporated milk for a creamy and tropical twist.
Add diced potatoes or corn for extra texture and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to sauté the vegetables until they are soft and fragrant before adding the tomato paste. This will help to develop the flavors of the soup.

- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper or aji chombo to suit your taste preferences. If you prefer a spicier soup, add more pepper.

- Crack the eggs directly into the simmering soup to ensure that they cook evenly. Be careful not to break the yolks when adding them to the pot.

Serving Suggestions

Serve caldillo with a side of rice or crusty bread for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Sauté the vegetables until they are soft and fragrant.

- Simmer the soup slowly to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Crack the eggs directly into the simmering soup for a perfectly cooked egg.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use red or yellow peppers instead of green peppers for a different flavor profile.

- Substitute vegetable broth for the consommé for a vegetarian version of the soup.

Make Ahead Tips

Caldillo can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve caldillo in individual bowls with a drizzle of cream on top. Garnish with fresh herbs and a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Caldillo pairs well with a crisp green salad or a side of roasted vegetables. For a complete meal, serve with a glass of white wine or a cold beer.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover caldillo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop until warmed through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of caldillo contains approximately 200 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of caldillo contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of caldillo contains approximately 8 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of caldillo contains approximately 12 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Caldillo is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and potassium.

Alergens

Caldillo contains eggs and dairy, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Caldillo is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for any meal.

Summary

Caldillo is a delicious and comforting soup that is perfect for any occasion. With its combination of fresh vegetables, eggs, and spices, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy the flavors of Panama with this traditional recipe!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was drawn to it like a magnet. It was a cold winter day, and I was flipping through an old cookbook that my mother had passed down to me. As I turned the pages, my eyes landed on a page with a recipe for Caldillo, a hearty Mexican stew that looked absolutely delicious.

I had never heard of Caldillo before, but the ingredients seemed simple enough - beef, tomatoes, potatoes, and a variety of spices. The instructions were straightforward, but there was something about the recipe that called out to me. Perhaps it was the way the flavors were described, or maybe it was the memories of my own grandmother cooking up similar dishes in her cozy kitchen.

I decided then and there that I had to make Caldillo. I gathered up the ingredients and set to work, following the instructions carefully and taking my time to let the flavors meld together. The smell that filled my kitchen as the stew simmered was intoxicating, and I couldn't wait to taste the final product.

When the Caldillo was finally ready, I ladled myself a steaming bowlful and took a tentative bite. The flavors exploded on my tongue - tangy tomatoes, tender beef, and the perfect blend of spices. It was like nothing I had ever tasted before, and I knew that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen for years to come.

As I savored each spoonful, I couldn't help but think back to how I had come to discover this amazing dish. It wasn't just from a cookbook or a cooking show - it was from the memories and experiences of those who had come before me. My mother, my grandmother, and all the women who had passed down their recipes and knowledge through the generations.

I remembered the hours spent in my grandmother's kitchen, watching her cook up feasts for our large family. She never used a cookbook or measured ingredients - everything was done by feel and instinct. I would sit at her feet, absorbing all the sights, sounds, and smells of her kitchen, knowing that one day I would carry on her culinary traditions.

And now, as I sat in my own kitchen, enjoying the fruits of my labor, I felt a deep sense of connection to those who had come before me. I could almost hear my grandmother's voice, guiding me through the recipe and offering her own tips and tricks along the way.

I realized then that cooking was more than just following a set of instructions - it was a way to honor the past, to connect with my roots, and to create something truly special to share with my loved ones. Caldillo had become more than just a recipe to me - it was a link to my family history and a reminder of the love and care that went into every meal that was prepared in my grandmother's kitchen.

As I finished my bowl of Caldillo, I knew that this dish would hold a special place in my heart for years to come. It was a reminder of the traditions and memories that had shaped me into the cook I was today, and a testament to the power of food to bring us together and nourish both body and soul. And as I cleaned up my kitchen, I knew that I would always carry on the legacy of Caldillo, passing down the recipe and the stories behind it to future generations, just as my grandmother had done for me.