In a large pot, place the chicken and cover in water. Bring to a boil. Discard of the water and rinse the chicken lightly to rid of the blood and protein foam which result from the boiling.
Put the chicken back in the pot, cover with water again and bring to a boil.
Lower the heat to medium and add the onion, potatoes, tomatoes, tomato paste, and the spices. Cook covered for about an hour. Add the cilantro at the end and turn off the heat.
If you rather make the soup with beef, use 2 lb of beef shank meat cut into large pieces.
If you prefer the chicken version, you can use any part of the chicken, except for the breast.
