Hearty Pozole Soup with Pork and Vegetables

 

Hearty Pozole Soup with Pork and Vegetables

(A traditional Mexican pozole with a rich, flavorful broth, tender pork, and hearty vegetables for a comforting and satisfying meal.)


Ingredients

Meat:

  • 2 lbs pork shoulder (cut into chunks)
  • 1 lb pork ribs (optional, for added flavor)
  • 4 slices bacon (chopped) (optional, for smokiness)

Vegetables:

  • 1 large onion (diced)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 2 cups hominy (canned or dried, soaked overnight)
  • 2 cups green chilies (diced)
  • 2 medium carrots (sliced)
  • 1 medium zucchini (diced)
  • 1 cup cabbage (chopped)
  • 1 cup corn kernels (optional, for extra sweetness)
  • 1 medium tomato (diced)

Broth & Seasonings:

  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups pork broth (or use additional chicken broth if not available)
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp lime zest (optional, for brightness)
  • Salt (to taste)

Garnishes & Toppings:

  • Fresh cilantro (chopped)
  • Lime wedges
  • Radishes (sliced)
  • Shredded lettuce
  • Crumbled tortilla chips or tostadas (for crunch)
  • Sour cream or Mexican crema (optional)

Instructions

  1. Cook the Pork:

    • In a large pot, cook bacon until crispy. Remove and set aside.
    • Add pork shoulder and pork ribs (if using) to the pot and brown on all sides, about 7-10 minutes.
    • Remove the meat and set aside.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables:

    • In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic for 3-5 minutes until softened.
    • Add carrots, zucchini, green chilies, cabbage, and tomato and cook for another 3 minutes.
  3. Simmer the Pozole:

    • Return the pork to the pot.
    • Pour in chicken broth, pork broth, chili powder, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, bay leaves, and black pepper.
    • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 ½ - 2 hours, or until pork is tender and falling apart.
  4. Add Hominy & Corn:

    • Stir in hominy and corn kernels (if using).
    • Simmer for 30 more minutes, allowing the hominy to soak up the flavors and become tender.
  5. Final Touches:

    • Adjust seasoning with salt and add lime zest if using.
    • Remove bay leaves from the soup.
  6. Serve & Garnish:

    • Ladle the soup into bowls.
    • Top with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, sliced radishes, shredded lettuce, and crumbled tortilla chips or tostadas.
    • Add a dollop of sour cream or Mexican crema for extra creaminess.

Why This Version Stands Out?

Tender pork cooked in a flavor-packed broth
Variety of vegetables (carrots, zucchini, cabbage, hominy) for texture and nutrition
Rich, smoky flavors from chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and bacon
Crispy toppings and fresh garnishes for the perfect balance

Would you like a spicier version or a slow-cooker adaptation? 😊

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