Menudo Recipe 445

Steps:

• To prepare the broth: Combine 6 quarts water with the cow's foot, marrow bones, garlic and onion in a very large stockpot (at least 12 quarts) and set over medium-high heat. Season with 1 1/2 tablespoons salt. Cover and bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a simmer and cook, uncovered, for 15 minutes. While it cooks, use a spoon to skim off any foam that forms on the surface.
• Add the tripe and oregano and cook for 2 to 2 ½ hours, until the tripe is tender but firm. (Do not overcook it.)
• Remove the cow's foot and marrow bones from the pot and skim off the fat from the surface. Once the cow's foot cools a little, pick off the meaty parts, chop them and return them to the pot, along with the marrow from the bones. Discard all the bones.
• While the broth is cooking, make the guajillo sauce: Heat a comal or large skillet over medium-high, then place the guajillo peppers open wide in the pan and lightly roast them for 30 to 40 seconds, until they darken slightly and become fragrant. Remove promptly. Place the roasted peppers in a bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak for about 25 minutes, until soft. Drain the peppers and place them in a blender with the garlic, ½ cup of the cooking broth and cumin (if using). Blend until smooth. Strain the sauce through a strainer into the pot with the broth.
• Simmer the broth for another 30 minutes, partially covered. Taste and season with more salt, if you like. Serve the soup in large bowls and place the chopped onion, crushed chiles, lime wedges, oregano and tortillas in serving dishes for everyone to add to their own bowls.

Steps:

• In a 16 quart pot combine the tripe and the onions. Add water until pot is about 3/4 full. Cover and cook on low heat for about 2 hours, or until the tripe is tender. Add the hominy, chili powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Cover and cook for another 45 minutes to one hour to incorporate the flavors. Serve with fresh onions, corn tortillas and lemon if desired.

Steps:

• Combine all marinade ingredients. Divide the marinade in halves. Save half. Add pork cubes on the other half with the bay leaf and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
• Remove pork from the marinade, drip dry.
• Sauté garlic and onion, add pork and the unused half of the marinade and bay leaf, simmer uncovered, reduce the liquid to half.
• Add fresh pork liver if you prefer the fresh ingredient, cover and cook.
• Add tomato sauce, liver paste (if this is what you're using), carrots, potatoes and raisins, simmer stirring occasionally.
• Add peppers and adjust the seasoning.
• Add the grated cheese, let it melt, stir and distribute evenly. Serve hot.