Menudo (Mexico)
Menudo is a traditional Mexican soup or stew made from beef tripe (stomach lining) simmered in a rich, flavorful broth with chili peppers and spices. It typically includes ingredients like hominy (corn kernels), onions, garlic, and herbs, and is often served with lime, cilantro, and tortillas on the side. This hearty dish is especially popular in central and western Mexico, and is commonly enjoyed as a restorative meal after celebrations.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
Menudo is high in protein due to the tripe, which is a lean cut of meat, and it provides a good source of iron and B vitamins. It is relatively low in carbohydrates unless served with hominy or tortillas, and a typical serving can range from 200 to 400 calories, depending on the recipe and portion size.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 180 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Carbs | 6 g |
| Fat | 7 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
| Sodium | 800 mg |
| Iron | 4.5 mg |
| Zinc | 5 mg |
| Vitamin B12 | 2.5 mcg |
| Niacin (B3) | 6 mg |
| Phosphorus | 250 mg |
| Selenium | 20 mcg |
| Potassium | 350 mg |
| Vitamin C | 8 mg |
Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Culturally, Menudo is famously known as a 'hangover cure' in Mexican tradition, often eaten on weekends or after fiestas. Nutritionally, the tripe is rich in collagen, which supports gut health and digestion, making it a unique blend of comfort food and functional nutrition.
