Pozole: A Delicious Mexican Soup Recipe
Pozole is a traditional Mexican soup that is perfect for cold weather days or when you need a comforting meal. Made with hominy, pork, and a variety of spices, this soup is flavorful, filling, and easy to make. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to make pozole at home with this simple recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
For this recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 kg pork shoulder, cut into chunks
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cans (800g) hominy, drained and rinsed
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 4 dried guajillo chilies, stemmed and seeded
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For toppings: chopped cilantro, sliced radishes, lime wedges, shredded cabbage, and tortilla chips
Instructions
Here’s how to make pozole:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the pork over medium-high heat until crispy and golden-brown, about 10 minutes. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside.
- Add the onion and garlic to the pot and cook until soft, about 5 minutes. Add the hominy, oregano, cumin, and dried chilies, and stir to combine.
- Return the pork to the pot and add enough chicken broth to cover everything. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours, or until the pork is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- To serve, ladle the pozole into bowls and top with chopped cilantro, sliced radishes, a squeeze of lime juice, shredded cabbage, and tortilla chips.
Variations
- To make a vegetarian version of pozole, simply omit the pork and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra veggies like diced carrots or celery to bulk up the soup.
- If you can’t find hominy, you can substitute it with canned white or yellow corn.
- For a spicier pozole, add more dried chilies or use a spicier variety like arbol or ancho.
- You can also top your pozole with other ingredients like avocado, queso fresco, or sour cream.
Pozole is a delicious and satisfying soup that’s perfect for any occasion. With this easy recipe, you can make it at home and enjoy its rich flavors and comforting warmth. Give it a try and let us know what you think!
FAQ
What is Pozole?
Pozole is a traditional Mexican soup or stew made with hominy and meat, typically pork, and seasoned with chili peppers and other spices.
What is hominy?
Hominy is dried maize kernels that have been treated with an alkali, such as lye or lime, which removes the hull and germ and causes the kernels to puff up.
What type of meat should I use for Pozole?
Traditionally, pork is used in Pozole, but you can also use chicken or beef. Pork shoulder or butt are great cuts of meat for Pozole because they are flavorful and become tender when cooked for a long time.
Can I make Pozole without meat?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian or vegan version of Pozole by using vegetable broth and omitting the meat. You can also add other vegetables, such as squash or mushrooms, to the soup for added flavor and texture.
What type of chili peppers should I use for Pozole?
Pozole is typically made with dried chili peppers, such as guajillo, ancho, or pasilla peppers. You can also use fresh chili peppers, such as jalapenos or serranos, if you prefer a spicier soup.
How do I make my Pozole less spicy?
If you want to make your Pozole less spicy, you can use fewer chili peppers or remove the seeds and membranes from the peppers before adding them to the soup. You can also add more hominy or other ingredients, such as diced tomatoes or corn, to dilute the spiciness.
How do I store leftover Pozole?
You can store leftover Pozole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Can I freeze Pozole?
Yes, you can freeze Pozole. Let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What are some traditional toppings for Pozole?
Traditional toppings for Pozole include diced onions, chopped cilantro, sliced radishes, shredded cabbage, and lime wedges. You can also add crumbled queso fresco, avocado slices, or tortilla chips for added flavor and texture.
Can I make Pozole in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make Pozole in a slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together.