Menudo: Tripe soup often eaten as a hangover cure.

Menudo: The Hangover Helper

Original Recipe

Prep time: 20 minutes Cook time: 3-4 hours Difficulty: Medium Serves: 6-8

Ingredients:

  • 3 pounds clean tripe, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 1 cow’s foot, cut into pieces
  • 1 pound marrow bones
  • 4 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons dried oregano
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • 6 cups beef broth
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 can (15 ounces) white hominy, drained
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Substitutions:

  • Tripe: If unavailable, you can use honeycomb tripe or substitute with another type of offal, such as beef tongue or heart.
  • Cow’s foot: Can be omitted or replaced with additional marrow bones for a richer flavor.
  • Hominy: Can be substituted with cooked chickpeas or white beans.

Instructions:

  1. In a large pot, combine the tripe, cow’s foot, marrow bones, garlic, onion, oregano, cumin, chili powder, and cayenne pepper (if using).
  2. Add the beef broth and water, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 3-4 hours, or until the tripe is tender.
  3. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface during cooking.
  4. Add the hominy and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
  5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Things to avoid:

  • Overcooking the tripe, which can make it tough and rubbery.
  • Adding too much spice, as the flavors will intensify as the soup simmers.
  • Not skimming the foam, which can make the soup cloudy.

Serving suggestions:

  • Serve with warm tortillas, chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and your favorite hot sauce.
  • Top with chopped onions, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream.
  • Enjoy with a side of rice or refried beans for a heartier meal.

Enjoy this unique and flavorful Menudo recipe, perfect for a comforting meal or a hangover cure!