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The first chill of winter arrived as I strolled through the local market, and the scent of rich spices beckoned from a nearby stall. That’s when I rediscovered my love for hearty soups, specifically Mexican Red Pozole, a vibrant dish that warms both the heart and the belly. With its tender chunks of pork shoulder, chewy hominy, and a symphony of dried chiles, this recipe became the star of our cozy gatherings. What I adore about it is the set-it-and-forget-it approach. As the ingredients simmer for hours, their flavors meld beautifully into a comforting stew, making it the perfect centerpiece for family dinners or festive celebrations. Dive into a bowl of this pozole, and you’ll savor a world of bold, savory richness that’s simpler to achieve than you might think!

Why You’ll Love Pozole This Winter

Comforting Warmth: This pozole is a cozy hug in a bowl, perfect for winter nights.

Set-It-and-Forget-It: With a simple cooking method, you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with loved ones.

Flavor Explosion: A delightful blend of spices, tender pork, and chewy hominy delivers layers of savory goodness that your family will rave about.

Family-Friendly: Ideal for gatherings, it’s a dish that appeals to all ages with its hearty and satisfying profile.

Cultural Legacy: Serving pozole connects you to tradition; it’s not just a meal, it’s a celebration!

For more delicious velvety soup ideas, check out my recipe for cozy soups.

Pozole Ingredients

• Ready to bring the warmth of pozole to your table? Here’s what you’ll need!

For the Soup Base

Pork Shoulder – Main protein, adds richness and depth; substitute with chicken if preferred.
Kosher Salt – Enhances overall flavor; use sea salt as an alternative for a unique twist.
Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds warmth and spice; white pepper can provide a milder kick if you desire.
Large Yellow Onion – Provides sweetness and depth in flavor; green onions can be a lighter alternative.
Cloves Garlic – Contributes aromatic flavors; garlic powder works in a pinch if you’re short on fresh.
Low-Sodium Chicken Broth – The base of the stew, ensures moisture and flavor; vegetable broth is a good vegetarian option to consider.

For the Spicing Magic

Cumin Seeds – Imparts earthiness and warmth; ground cumin is a fine substitute if that’s what you have on hand.
Bay Leaf – Adds herbal notes; omitting it is okay, but it’s generally recommended for enhanced flavor.
Dried Ancho Chiles – Contributes mild heat and sweetness; other dried chiles can substitute, though it will change the flavor profile.
Dried Chiles de Árbol – Adds heat and complexity; you can completely omit for a milder version of the soup.
Dried Guajillo Chiles – Provides vibrant color and a unique flavor; use more Ancho chiles if this one isn’t available.

For the Heartiness

Canned Hominy – The main starch component, adds texture; corn can substitute, but the flavor will shift significantly.

For Toppings

Thinly Sliced Radishes – Offers a crunchy texture; feel free to swap with other fresh toppings if you prefer.
Green Cabbage – Adds freshness and crunch; any fresh greens can fill in for cabbage.
Cilantro – Brightens up the dish; if cilantro isn’t your thing, any fresh herbs or greens will work beautifully.

How to Make Pozole

Season Pork: Begin by generously seasoning the pork shoulder with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. This will enhance the overall flavor of your pozole.
Combine Ingredients: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the seasoned pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, cumin seeds, bay leaf, and low-sodium chicken broth. Add enough water to ensure the meat is covered by about 2 inches.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover and gently simmer for 1.5 hours, allowing the flavors to blend beautifully.
Prep Chiles: While the soup simmers, soak the dried chiles (Ancho, de Árbol, and Guajillo) in boiling water for about 30 minutes. Once softened, blend the chiles with a bit of the soaking liquid until smooth.
Final Cooking: Stir in the blended chiles and drained hominy, then cover the pot and simmer for another 1.5 hours. Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary—feel free to add more salt or pepper if needed.
Serve: Ladle the pozole into bowls and top each serving with sliced radishes, shredded cabbage, and fresh cilantro for that delightful crunch and vibrant flavor.

Optional: Drizzle a little lime juice on top for an extra zesty kick.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

Expert Tips for Pozole

Skim for Clarity: Skimming off any foam during the initial simmering phase helps create a clearer, cleaner broth, making your pozole look as good as it tastes.
Control the Heat: Adjust the quantity of dried chiles to suit your family’s taste. Start with less and add more gradually while tasting to avoid overpowering the dish.
Choose Quality Broth: Using a high-quality low-sodium chicken broth enhances the overall flavor of your pozole, making each spoonful a delicious experience.
Let it Rest: Allowing the pozole to sit for about 30 minutes after cooking can help the flavors meld even further, resulting in a richer taste.
Customize Toppings: Feel free to experiment with different toppings like avocado or lime wedges to elevate your pozole experience and cater to your family’s preferences.

Make Ahead Options

These Pozole options are fantastic for meal prep enthusiasts! You can season the pork shoulder and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Additionally, you can soak the dried chiles and blend them with broth, storing the mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This not only saves time but also allows the flavors to deepen. On cooking day, simply combine the prepped ingredients in the pot with the broth and hominy. Cover and simmer as directed, ensuring a hearty pozole that tastes just as delicious as if made fresh!

What to Serve with Mexican Red Pozole?

As the warmth of pozole fills your kitchen, consider these delightful pairings to create a meal that warms the soul.

Warm Tortillas: Perfect for dipping, these soft tortillas are a traditional favorite that soak up the delicious broth.
Crispy Tortilla Chips: For a crunch, serve these chips alongside the soup, offering a contrast to the tender textures of the pozole. The salty, crispy flavor complements the rich soup splendidly.
Fresh Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds a luscious texture that balances the warmth of the spices, making each bite even more satisfying.
Zesty Lime Wedges: A splash of fresh lime juice enhances the flavors, bringing brightness that cuts through the richness of the dish.
Spanish Rice: Fluffy rice provides a filling side that perfectly absorbs leftover broth, allowing you to enjoy every last drop of that savory goodness.
Black Bean Salad: This side offers a refreshing contrast with its vibrant colors and flavors, pairing well with the heartiness of the pozole without overshadowing it.
Chilled Mexican Beer: A refreshing beer can elevate your dining experience while complementing the bold flavors of the soup. Choose a light lager or a fruity ale for the best match.
Flan for Dessert: Finish your meal on a sweet note with creamy flan. Its rich texture and caramel flavor provide a delightful contrast to the spicy pozole.

Embrace these serving suggestions and craft a full meal that’s as comforting as the pozole itself!

Pozole Variations & Substitutions

Feel free to tailor this comforting pozole recipe to suit your taste and dietary needs!

Chicken Option: Substitute pork shoulder with chicken thighs for a lighter flavor and quicker cooking time.
A lovely twist that gives the dish a new personality while keeping those savory notes intact.
Vegetarian Delight: Use vegetable broth and replace meat with mushrooms for umami richness.
This version is absolutely satisfying and allows those veggies to shine in every vibrant bowl.
Spice it Up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika for an unexpected depth of flavor.
It gives the soup a warm, smoky aroma that beautifully complements the spices already in play.
Red Lentils: Swap hominy for red lentils to boost fiber and protein while simplifying the texture.
The lentils add a unique heartiness that brings a different comfort to your cozy gatherings.
Spiced Up Heat: For extra heat, include diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce before serving.
Adjust this to your family’s liking, creating just the right kick that tantalizes the taste buds!
Flavorful Crema: Drizzle a spoonful of crème fraîche or sour cream on each bowl for creaminess.
This rich topping rounds out the flavors, giving a delightful balance to the robust soup.
Herb Variety: Swap cilantro for fresh parsley or dill if you’re not a fan of cilantro.
These herbs will still add a refreshing lift that’s integral to brightening your pozole.
Quinoa Alternative: Use quinoa or farro instead of hominy for a nutritious, gluten-free grain swap.
This change introduces an interesting bite and nutrition, making it a hearty dish that feels lighter!

How to Store and Freeze Pozole

Room Temperature: Let the pozole cool completely before leaving it out for no more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.

Fridge: Store leftover pozole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to maintain moisture.

Freezer: Freeze pozole without toppings for up to 3 months. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, and let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add fresh toppings just before serving to keep them vibrant and crunchy.

Mexican Red Pozole Recipe FAQs

How do I select the best pork shoulder for my pozole?
Absolutely! Look for pork shoulder that has a good amount of marbling and a pinkish hue, indicating freshness. Avoid cuts with dark spots or excessive fat. Choosing bone-in pork can enhance flavor, so include that option if you can find it.

How should I store leftover pozole?
Very simply! Let your pozole cool down completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to a week. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little broth if you find it thickened too much.

Can I freeze pozole for later?
Definitely! To freeze, let your pozole cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat gently over low heat.

What should I do if my pozole is too spicy?
If your pozole turns out spicier than expected, don’t worry! One effective way to balance it is to add more hominy or some cooked potatoes to absorb the heat. You can also stir in a little sour cream or a splash of cream to help mellow the spice.

Is pozole suitable for dogs?
Though it can be tempting to share, it’s best not to feed your dog pozole. The spices, especially garlic and certain chiles, can upset their stomachs. Always consult your vet regarding new foods for your pets to ensure their safety.

How long does it take to make posole from start to finish?
The total cooking time for pozole is about 3 to 4 hours, including initial prep and simmering times. You’ll spend about 1.5 hours on the first simmer and another 1.5 hours once you’ve added the chiles and hominy. It’s a perfect set-it-and-forget-it recipe!