Slow Simmered Red Pozole Stew
Highlighted under: Global Gourmet Plates
Experience the rich flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine with this Slow Simmered Red Pozole Stew. Perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings!
This Slow Simmered Red Pozole Stew is a comforting dish that brings together tender pork, hominy, and a vibrant red chile sauce. A staple in Mexican households, it is often enjoyed during celebrations and gatherings. The deep flavors develop beautifully with a long, slow simmer, making it well worth the wait!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Rich, hearty flavors that warm the soul
- Customizable toppings for a personalized touch
- A perfect dish for sharing with family and friends
A Taste of Tradition
Pozole is a traditional Mexican dish that dates back to pre-Columbian times, often served during celebrations and special occasions. This Slow Simmered Red Pozole Stew captures the essence of this rich history, offering a delightful blend of flavors that have been cherished for generations. The combination of tender pork, hominy, and aromatic spices creates a comforting meal that resonates with cultural significance.
The use of dried chiles, particularly ancho and guajillo, adds depth and warmth to the stew. These chiles are not just for flavor; they bring vibrant color and a hint of smokiness that elevates the dish. Preparing this stew is not just about following a recipe; it's about embracing a culinary tradition that invites family and friends to gather around the table.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Slow Simmered Red Pozole Stew is versatile enough to be the star of a cozy family dinner or the highlight of a festive gathering. Its hearty nature warms the soul and satisfies even the heartiest appetites, making it a go-to option during colder months or for celebrations like birthdays, holidays, and family reunions.
Moreover, the customizable toppings allow each person to create their perfect bowl. From the refreshing crunch of shredded cabbage to the creamy richness of avocado slices, everyone can tailor their experience. This adaptability not only enhances the flavor but also fosters a sense of community as everyone shares their unique creations.
Cooking Tips and Variations
While this recipe features pork shoulder for a classic taste, feel free to experiment with other proteins such as chicken or turkey for a lighter option. You can also make a vegetarian version by substituting the meat with mushrooms or jackfruit, which will absorb the delicious flavors of the stew beautifully. Just ensure to use vegetable broth for the base.
For those who love a bit of heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to your bowl. You can also incorporate additional spices like oregano or bay leaves during the simmering process to enhance the flavor profile. Remember, the beauty of pozole lies in its flexibility, so don't hesitate to make it your own!
Ingredients
For the Stew
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into chunks
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 dried ancho chiles
- 2 dried guajillo chiles
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cans hominy, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Toppings
- Shredded cabbage
- Diced radishes
- Chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Avocado slices
Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking to make the process smoother.
Cooking Steps
Prepare the Chiles
Remove the stems and seeds from the dried chiles. Soak them in hot water for about 20 minutes until softened.
Make the Sauce
Blend the soaked chiles with a bit of the soaking water, garlic, and cumin until smooth. Set aside.
Cook the Pork
In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the pork chunks and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
Combine Ingredients
In the same pot, add onion and cook until softened. Return the pork to the pot, add the chile sauce, chicken broth, and hominy. Stir to combine.
Simmer the Stew
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 2 hours until the pork is tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Once done, serve hot with your choice of toppings for a delicious meal!
Serving Suggestions
When serving Slow Simmered Red Pozole Stew, consider pairing it with warm corn tortillas or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. A side of Mexican rice or beans can also complement the dish beautifully, offering a balanced meal that satisfies the palate.
For drinks, traditional options include horchata or a refreshing agua fresca. If you prefer something with a kick, a light Mexican beer can enhance the dining experience, making it a perfect pairing for this savory stew.
Storing and Reheating
If you have leftovers, storing your pozole stew is easy. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld together, often making the stew even tastier on the second day.
To reheat, gently warm the stew on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it has thickened. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave for a quick meal. Enjoy your delicious pozole stew again and savor those rich flavors!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use chicken instead of pork?
Yes, chicken thighs work well and will cook faster.
→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?
You can replace the meat with mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead.
→ Can I freeze leftover pozole?
Yes, it freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
→ What toppings do you recommend?
Traditional toppings include shredded cabbage, radishes, and avocado, but feel free to get creative!
Slow Simmered Red Pozole Stew
Experience the rich flavors of traditional Mexican cuisine with this Slow Simmered Red Pozole Stew. Perfect for cozy dinners or festive gatherings!
Created by: Emma
Recipe Type: Global Gourmet Plates
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stew
- 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into chunks
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 dried ancho chiles
- 2 dried guajillo chiles
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cans hominy, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Toppings
- Shredded cabbage
- Diced radishes
- Chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Avocado slices
How-To Steps
Remove the stems and seeds from the dried chiles. Soak them in hot water for about 20 minutes until softened.
Blend the soaked chiles with a bit of the soaking water, garlic, and cumin until smooth. Set aside.
In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the pork chunks and brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
In the same pot, add onion and cook until softened. Return the pork to the pot, add the chile sauce, chicken broth, and hominy. Stir to combine.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 2 hours until the pork is tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 32g
- Dietary Fiber: 6g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 30g