Caldo de Arroz con Carne Molida is a simple, nourishing Mexican soup made with seasoned ground beef, rice, vegetables, and a flavorful tomato-based broth. It’s the kind of meal that stretches ingredients without sacrificing flavor — perfect for weeknight dinners or when you’re craving something warm, filling, and familiar.
⏱️ Prep Time
Task
Time
Prep Time
10 mins
Cook Time
30–35 mins
Total Time
~45 mins
🔧 Equipment
Large soup pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Cutting board & knife
Measuring cups/spoons
🛒 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
1 lb ground beef (80/20)
1 small white onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
1 medium zucchini, diced
1 large tomato, chopped (or 1/2 cup tomato sauce)
1/2 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked)
6 cups water or beef broth
1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
1 tsp salt (or to taste)
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp ground cumin
Optional: 1 jalapeño or serrano (for a spicy kick)
Lime wedges (for serving)
🧾 Ingredient Notes
Rice: Long-grain white rice is traditional, but you can use jasmine or brown rice (adjust cooking time).
Ground beef: Can be swapped for ground turkey or chicken.
Vegetables: You can add green beans, corn, peas, or potatoes to stretch it even further.
👨🍳 Instructions
Brown the Meat:
In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until no longer pink (about 6–7 minutes).
Drain excess grease if needed. Add onion and garlic, cook for 2 more minutes until softened.
Add Tomato & Seasonings:
Stir in chopped tomato (or tomato sauce), salt, pepper, and cumin.
Cook for 2–3 minutes until tomato breaks down and flavors meld.
Add Broth & Rice:
Pour in 6 cups of water or broth. Bring to a boil.
Stir in uncooked rice and carrots. Reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes.
Add Remaining Veggies:
Add zucchini (and any other quick-cooking vegetables).
Simmer another 10–15 minutes until rice is tender and vegetables are soft.
Finish & Serve:
Stir in chopped cilantro. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve hot with lime wedges, warm tortillas, or crusty bread.
📊 Nutrition Facts (approx. per serving – 1/6 of recipe)
Nutrient
Amount
Calories
~320
Protein
~20g
Carbs
~28g
Fat
~14g
Fiber
~3g
Sodium
~600mg
💡 Tips & Variations
🔥 Tips:
Don’t overcook rice: It can get mushy. Simmer just until tender, then serve.
Leftovers: This soup thickens as it sits. Add extra broth or water when reheating.
Boost the flavor: Use a bouillon cube or tomato bouillon (like Knorr) for extra depth.
🌟 Variations:
Spicy: Add a diced chile or a dash of chipotle or chile powder.
Veggie-heavy: Add cabbage or spinach at the end for extra nutrients.
With beans: Stir in cooked pinto or black beans for added heartiness.
