Menudo, a traditional Mexican stew made with tripe, hominy, chiles, and spices, is a favorite among many.
This comforting dish is often served as part of family celebrations or special occasions but also makes for a delicious weeknight meal.
It’s a hearty, savory dish that can be served as the main course or as part of a larger meal.
If you’re looking to serve menudo at your next gathering or just want to add some flavor to your everyday meal, here are some simple side dishes that are sure to make your menudo even more enjoyable.
So, hurry! Go to your kitchen and try all these beautiful combinations one by one.
A Quick solution for what to serve with menudo – Tortillas, Salsa Fresca, Chips & Guacamole, Salads, Pickled Red Onions, Refried Beans, Tamales, Salsa, Guacamole, Tortilla Chips, Frijoles Refritos, Queso Fresco, Rice, Charro Beans, Fresh Tomato Salsa, Avocado Salad, Cornbread, Chunky Tomato Soup, Sweet Plantains, Flour Tortillas.
What is menudo? What does menudo taste like?
Menudo is a traditional Mexican soup made with hominy and tripe (the stomach lining of beef or lamb).
It’s flavored with a mix of dried peppers, garlic, onions, oregano and other herbs. The soup also typically contains tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, cabbage and lime juice.
Menudo has a savory flavor that combines the taste of the meat with the tangy flavors of acidic ingredients like lime juice and tomatoes.
Menudo is usually served as an appetizer or entrée for special occasions and holidays.
The dish also contains subtle notes of sweetness from the hominy and vegetables like carrots and potatoes. Some people add flavorings like raisins to make the broth sweeter.
Do you really need side dishes to pair up with menudo?
The answer is yes, as menudo can be quite a strong flavor. Some popular sides that pair well with Menudo are Spanish-style rice, refried beans, tostadas, and corn chips.
You can also add diced onion and cilantro for added texture.
For a more traditional meal, you could serve pan dulce (Mexican sweet bread) or bolillo rolls on the side.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some pickled jalapenos or carrots to your plate for an extra kick!
Lastly, don’t forget to offer freshly squeezed lime juice on the side so that everyone can enjoy their bowl of menudo just the way they like it!
Best foods to go with menudo
1. Tortillas
No Mexican-style meal is complete without warm tortillas! One of the best partners for menudo is a stack of freshly-made warm tortillas.
Serve them up with your menudo for an extra layer of texture and flavor.
The corn tortillas are used for scooping up bites of the soup or for making tacos by adding cheese and other toppings like pickled onions, cilantro, avocado, and limes.
It’s an easy way to make your meal extra special!
2. Salsa Fresca
If you want to add some extra flavor and spice to your menudo, try serving it with salsa fresca (also known as pico de gallo).
This fresh tomato salsa is made with diced tomatoes, onion, cilantro, jalapeno peppers, lime juice, and salt.
You can vary the ingredients depending on how spicy you like it—but it always adds a delicious kick!
3. Chips & Guacamole
I just love to taste Chips and guacamole with menudo. The creamy guacamole balances out the spicy flavors in the soup while providing an extra dose of healthy fats.
For an even more indulgent take on this classic pairing, you can try adding some melted cheese on top!
4. Salads
Salads are always an excellent match when serving any type of soup or stew.
You can opt for a simple green salad with lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and red onion, or get creative and make something more elaborate, like quinoa salad or bean salad.
Whatever you choose will add some bright color and nutrition to your meal!
5. Pickled Red Onions
Pickled red onions are the perfect match to any Mexican-inspired meal thanks to their bright acidity that helps cut through the richness of dishes like menudo.
Pickling red onions is so easy to prepare— all you have to do is slice them into thin rings, place them in a mason jar, and cover them with a mixture of white vinegar, salt, sugar, black peppercorns, bay leaves and oregano sprigs.
Let sit overnight before serving!
6. Refried Beans
Refried beans are refreshing sides if you’re looking for something hearty yet healthy that won’t overpower the taste of your stew.
To make this classic Mexican side dish easily at home, all you need to do is cook pinto beans until soft, then mash them together with garlic and onion until they reach a creamy consistency.
Add salt and pepper to taste, then enjoy!
7. Tamales
This Mexican staple, tamales also my other favorite to taste with menudo as they provide a savory and filling addition to the hearty soup.
Tamales are made from masa harina, corn husks, and a variety of fillings like chicken, pork, cheese, or vegetables.
So, try it today with your family.
8. Salsa
Whether it’s red or green salsa, both are delicious and served with menudo. The spiciness of the salsa goes well with the flavor of the soup and adds a depth of flavor that complements the other ingredients in your dish.
9. Guacamole
Another classic Mexican side dish that is perfect for enjoying with menudo is guacamole. It is made with avocados, tomatoes, onions, and spices; guacamole adds a creamy richness to your meal while also providing a boost of healthy fats.
10. Tortilla Chips
Crunchy chips help cut through the richness of menudo and make it easier to dip into your bowl of soup.
Tortilla chips are an easy way to add some texture and variety to your meal while getting you in touch with traditional Mexican flavors.
11. Frijoles Refritos
Frijoles Refritos are basically Refried beans which are another popular side dish served with menudo because they provide a unique combination of flavors that go well together.
Plus, beans are high in protein, which helps make this dish more filling for those looking for something light yet satisfying on the side of their meal.
12. Queso Fresco
This is a mild cheese best known for its crumbly texture; queso fresco is often served as a couple to menudo dishes.
Because it helps mellow out some of the more piquant flavors from ingredients like garlic and chili peppers found in this traditional Mexican soup recipe. So, try it to satisfy your taste bud.
13. Rice
Adding rice to your bowl of menudo provides both texture and additional bulk, which makes it easier to get full quicker.
While also offering up new flavors that pair nicely with other ingredients found in this traditional soup recipe, such as hominy or tripe pieces typically used in its preparation.
14. Charro Beans
This is just yummy when you taste charro beans with menudo.
Beans cooked in a broth along with tomatoes and garlic give this side dish flavorful depth without being too overpowering when eaten alongside other items prepared for your meal, like Menudo itself or tortillas on the side.
15. Tomatillos & Onions Salsa
If you want something spicier, then tomatillos & onions salsa should not be overlooked as an excellent accompaniment for Menudo.
The sharpness provided by tomatillos & onions nicely complements all sorts of soups – including Menudo!
16. Fresh Tomato Salsa
If you love and love fresh vegetables, then fresh tomato salsa goes perfectly well with Menudo!
It is packed full of vitamins and minerals – it’s great for any health-conscious individual who is looking for something light but extremely flavorful at their next dinner party featuring Menudo as its star item.
17. Avocado Salad
With chunks of avocado mixed together with cilantro, onion and lime juice – Avocado salad is a very common side dish found throughout Mexico – excellent when tasted with Menudo!
Not only does it offer additional nutrition through its healthy fats, but it also brings beautiful colors to your plate.
18. Cornbread
This classic American staple tastes best to almost any type of food – including Menudo!
Not only does it offer a crunchy texture, but its sweetness compliments many different types of soups, making it ideal for adding more depth when eating with this traditional Mexican delicacy.
19. Chunky Tomato Soup
Coupling vegetable soups like a chunky tomato just seem like natural pairings when eating alongside heartier meals such as Menudos.
Packed full flavor thanks to its abundance of tomatoes, peppers & herbs – chunky tomato soup will bring vibrancy & freshness to your table!
20. Sweet Plantains
Sweet plantains are always welcome on my table – especially when I serve beside hearty dishes such as Menudos.
These sweet fruits provide you essential vitamins & minerals while adding an extra sweetness that perfectly works with this type of rustic food.
21. Flour Tortillas
Last but most certainly not least – flour tortillas are absolutely delicious when having any kind of Mexican cuisine.
It is enjoyed by Mexicans everywhere these days – flour tortillas can easily be filled up with chunks from your bowl full of Menudos, allowing you to create even tastier bites full of flavor!
Enjoy!
What are the best flavors to go with menudo?
Menudo is a fragrant stew that can be enjoyed with many different flavors. Popular flavors to match
menudo includes lime juice, chopped cilantro, diced onions or chiles, and thinly sliced radishes.
If you looking for a slightly more exotic flavor, consider adding some diced tomatillos or jalapenos to the dish.
Additionally, you could also add in some Mexican oregano or even a splash of tequila to give your menudo some extra zing.
Another great way to enhance the flavor of your menudo is by using spices like garlic, cumin, chili powder, and paprika.
All of these spices can be added to the dish to bring out its unique flavor. You could also add a few tablespoons of tomato paste for additional richness.
If you those looking for a sweeter taste, consider adding some diced carrots or sweet potatoes to the stew.
Finally, don’t forget about garnishes when serving menudo.
Freshly chopped cilantro and lime wedges are great options to provide an extra layer of flavor and texture to this Mexican classic.
Other tasty options include crumbled queso fresco or Cotija cheese, sour cream, and hot sauce.
How do you jazz up menudo?
There are a variety of ways to jazz up menudo, depending on your tastes and preferences. Here are some ideas:
1. Add additional spices like cumin and oregano for extra flavor.
2. Serve it with fresh tortillas or warm cornbread for a more filling meal.
3. Top it with shredded cheese for an even more delicious dish.
4. Use chorizo instead of regular beef for added spice.
5. Add some diced green chilies or jalapenos to give it an extra kick of heat.
6. Sprinkle in some chopped onion and garlic for added flavor and texture.
7. Incorporate different vegetables, such as carrots and potatoes, for a more nutritious meal.
8. Toss in some cooked rice or noodles to make it heartier.
9. Top with sour cream and avocado slices for a creamy, cool element.
10. Add some fresh herbs like cilantro to brighten up the flavor.
11. Drizzle a bit of hot sauce over the top before serving for an extra kick of heat!
12. Experiment with different types of beans, such as black beans or pinto beans, to add variety to your dish.
13. Finish off your menudo by garnishing it with a few sliced radishes or limes for an extra zesty touch!
How do you display menudo on a platter?
To display menudo on a platter, begin by arranging the tripe in the center of the platter. Surround the tripe with meatballs, chorizo, and vegetables like garbanzo beans, carrots, potatoes and onions.
Place a ladle or spoon in the middle of the platter to serve individual portions. Garnish with cilantro and lime wedges for an extra burst of freshness. Serve hot with warm tortillas or crusty bread.
Enjoy!
FAQs on what to serve with menudo
Q1. How many menudo per person?
This depends on the size of your party and how much everyone is willing to eat. Generally, it’s a good idea to plan for two bowls per person if you are serving large portions.
If you’re only serving small portions, then one bowl should suffice. For example, if you are hosting a party with 10 people, plan for at least 20 servings of menudo.
For each bowl, plan on about 1/2 cup of prepared broth along with 4 ounces (1/4 pound) of tripe and hominy.
Q2. What do Mexicans eat menudo with?
In Mexico, menudo is traditionally served with fresh or fried tortillas, onions, oregano, cilantro, limes and other condiments such as dried chiles. It can also be served with a variety of accompaniments, such as sliced radishes, shredded lettuce and chopped cilantro. Menudo may also be eaten with various salsas for additional flavor.
The soup is usually accompanied by warm corn tortillas, which can be topped with cheese, avocado slices or salsa. Boiled eggs are often added to the dish to add protein and texture. Some choose to add bacon pieces for extra crunch and flavor as well.
Other optional toppings include chili powder, diced tomatoes and/or jalapeños to bring some heat. Menudo can also be served with white rice or used as a topping for tacos and burritos. In some regions of Mexico, menudo might even be served alongside tamales or enchiladas.
Q3. Do Mexicans eat menudo with bread?
Yes, it is common for Mexicans to eat menudo with bread. Bread is used to dip into the soup and mop up any remaining broth or salsa that may have been added. Many people also enjoy eating menudo with warm tortillas or chips.
Menudo can be served as a main course dish, often accompanied by other traditional Mexican dishes like tacos, enchiladas, beans and guacamole. It’s also popular as part of a late-night snack. Overall, there are many delicious ways to enjoy menudo in Mexico!
Is menudo for breakfast or dinner?
The answer to this question depends on the region and culture that you are in. Generally speaking, menudo can be served as either breakfast or dinner. In Mexico, it is more commonly served at breakfast; however, some regions may serve menudo for both meals. In the United States, it is most often eaten as a hearty brunch dish or late lunch/early dinner meal. Ultimately, the time of day when menudo is served will vary according to regional customs and personal preference.
