If you’ve been craving a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dish, this pozole recipe is just what you need. Pozole is a traditional Mexican stew made with hominy, tender pork or chicken, and a rich broth infused with spices and chile flavors. It’s more than just food—it’s a cultural staple often served during celebrations and family gatherings. With its vibrant toppings like shredded cabbage, radishes, cilantro, and lime, pozole has become a trending favorite in kitchens around the world.
Why You’ll Love This Pozole Recipe
- Rich and Flavorful: A deeply spiced broth paired with hearty hominy and tender meat.
- Customizable: Adjust toppings and chile blends to make it mild or spicy.
- Comfort Food Classic: Perfect for cold days, family dinners, or festive occasions.
- Nutritious & Satisfying: Packed with protein, fiber, and wholesome ingredients.
- Great for Sharing: Serve it in a big pot—pozole is best enjoyed with family and friends.
Ingredients Needed for Perfect Pozole Recipe
- Pork Shoulder or Chicken – provides rich, tender protein that soaks up all the chile flavor.
- Hominy (nixtamalized corn) – the heart of pozole, adding chewy texture and authentic taste.
- Dried Red Chiles (like guajillo or ancho) – create the vibrant red broth and smoky spice.
- Garlic and Onion – build the savory base of the stew.
- Shredded Cabbage, Radishes, Lime, Cilantro – fresh toppings that balance the hearty stew.
Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Pozole Recipe
- Prepare the Chiles: Remove stems and seeds, then soak dried chiles in hot water until softened. Blend with garlic, onion, and a bit of broth into a smooth sauce.
- Cook the Meat: Simmer pork shoulder (or chicken) in a large pot of water with onion and garlic until tender. Skim foam as needed.
- Add the Hominy: Stir in drained hominy for authentic texture and flavor.
- Incorporate Chile Sauce: Strain the blended chile mixture into the pot. Simmer everything together for about 30 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Taste and Adjust: Add salt, pepper, or extra chile sauce to match your spice preference.
- Serve with Garnishes: Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cabbage, radishes, lime juice, and fresh cilantro.
Expert Tip: Always strain your chile sauce to ensure a silky-smooth broth without skins or seeds.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- Spice Level: For a milder version, use fewer chiles or blend in some tomato to soften the heat.
- Protein Swaps: Try chicken thighs for a lighter version or beef for a richer stew.
- Pozole Verde: Use tomatillos, jalapeños, and cilantro instead of red chiles for a green twist.
- Vegetarian Pozole: Replace meat with mushrooms or jackfruit for a plant-based option.
How to Store & Reheat
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Cool completely and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the consistency.
Similar Recipes You Will Love
If you enjoyed this hearty pozole recipe, you’ll love exploring other comforting classics that bring warmth to the table. Try this flavorful Red Beans and Rice Recipe for a Southern favorite, enjoy a light and wholesome Cabbage Soup Recipe packed with veggies, or savor a rich and hearty Bolognese Recipe perfect for pasta night. Each dish is simple, satisfying, and full of flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is the difference between pozole rojo, verde, and blanco?
A: Pozole rojo uses red chiles, verde uses green ingredients like tomatillos and cilantro, and blanco is a simpler, chile-free version.
Q: Can I make pozole recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! Pozole tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
Q: Where can I find hominy?
A: Canned hominy is available in most grocery stores in the Hispanic foods aisle or at Latin markets.
Q: What toppings are traditional for pozole?
A: Shredded cabbage, radishes, lime wedges, onion, cilantro, oregano, and avocado are classic garnishes.
This pozole recipe is the perfect way to bring authentic Mexican flavor to your table. Whether you make it for a cozy dinner, a family gathering, or a festive occasion, it’s a dish that warms the heart and brings people together. Give it a try, customize it with your favorite toppings, and don’t forget to share your version with friends and family.
Pozole Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs pork shoulder cut into chunks
- 1 large can 25 oz hominy, drained and rinsed
- 4 dried guajillo chiles stems and seeds removed
- 3 dried ancho chiles stems and seeds removed
- 1 medium onion halved
- 5 garlic cloves peeled
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Shredded cabbage
- Sliced radishes
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Diced onion
Instructions
- Prepare the Chiles: Soak guajillo and ancho chiles in hot water for 20 minutes until softened. Blend with garlic, half the onion, and 1 cup broth into a smooth sauce. Strain to remove skins.
- Cook the Pork: In a large pot, add pork chunks, remaining onion, bay leaf, oregano, and broth. Simmer for 1.5–2 hours until pork is tender. Skim foam as needed.
- Add Hominy: Stir in drained hominy and cook for 20 minutes.
- Incorporate Chile Sauce: Pour in the strained chile sauce. Simmer 30 more minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Taste and Adjust: Add salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with shredded cabbage, radishes, onion, cilantro, and fresh lime juice.