13 Classic Mexican Soups for Warming Winter Comfort

I've never met a Mexican soup I didn't love. when I was growing up, soup was constantly on the menu at home because it was something my mom could easily make a lot of at once so we'd have leftovers to eat later in the week. She'd always make a big pot of caldo de pollo whenever any of us kids had a cold—and I still make it throughout cold and flu season, whether I've got the sniffles or not.

I've lived in a few different regions of Mexico, which exposed me to lots of different soups and their many variations. One of our family friends ran a seafood restaurant that made some of the best caldo de camarón I've ever had. (I regret not asking for the recipe, though I guess I can be forgiven since I was only seven at the time.) I remember the way the bright red broth seemed to sparkle under the lights of the restaurant—it was soothing, and beautiful, concentrated shrimp flavor spiked with tomato and lime.

Of course, pozole is one of the most famous Mexican soups, so we have three variations below, including a vegan version that comes together quickly in the Instant Pot—great for weeknight meals, or any time you're in a rush. All of these soups and more await your hungry eyes below.