Discover how to make Pozole, a traditional Mexican soup that combines hominy (dried corn kernels), tender pork or chicken, and a variety of fresh toppings. This flavorful dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners. Learn the step-by-step process to create this comforting and nutritious meal, and find out how to customize it with your favorite garnishes like lettuce, radishes, and lime.

Ingredients:

- 2 pounds pork shoulder or chicken thighs, cut into chunks

- 1 large onion, chopped

- 4 cloves garlic, minced

- 1 can (15 oz) hominy, drained and rinsed

- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 2 tablespoons dried oregano

- 1 tablespoon ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon chili powder (optional, for extra heat)

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 1 bay leaf

For Toppings:

- Shredded lettuce

- Sliced radishes

- Lime wedges

- Chopped cilantro

- Sliced jalapeños (optional)

- Avocado slices (optional)

- Crumbled tortilla chips (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Meat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork or chicken and brown on all sides. Remove the meat and set aside.

Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Simmer the Soup: Return the browned meat to the pot. Stir in the oregano, cumin, chili powder (if using), and bay leaf. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shreds.

Add Hominy: Once the meat is cooked, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded meat to the pot. Stir in the hominy and let the soup simmer for another 10-15 minutes.

Season: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve: Ladle the pozole into bowls and let everyone add their favorite toppings. Serve hot and enjoy!

Feel free to customize your pozole with your favorite garnishes and enjoy this hearty Mexican classic with family and friends.

Nutritional Values

Pork Shoulder or Chicken Thighs

 - Calories: 250

 - Protein: 25g

 - Fat: 17g

 - Carbohydrates: 0g

Benefits:

 - High in Protein: Supports muscle growth and repair.

 - Rich in B Vitamins: Essential for energy metabolism and brain health.

Onion

 - Calories: 45

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 11g (including 2g fiber)

 - Vitamin C: 8% of the Daily Value (DV)

 - Folate: 8% of the DV

Benefits:

 - Rich in Antioxidants: Helps reduce inflammation and supports heart health.

 - Contains Fiber: Aids in digestion and supports gut health.

Garlic

 - Calories: 4

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Vitamin C: 1% of the DV

Benefits:

 - Supports Immune Health: Contains allicin, which has antimicrobial properties.

 - May Reduce Blood Pressure: Helps in maintaining cardiovascular health.

Hominy (Dried Corn Kernels)

 - Calories: 120

 - Protein: 3g

 - Fat: 1g

 - Carbohydrates: 27g (including 4g fiber)

Benefits:

 - Good Source of Fiber: Supports digestive health.

 - Provides Carbohydrates: Offers energy for daily activities.

Chicken or Vegetable Broth

 - Calories: 10

 - Protein: 1g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

 - Low in Calories: Adds flavor without excess calories.

 - Hydration: Helps in maintaining fluid balance.

Vegetable Oil

 - Calories: 120

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 14g (mostly unsaturated fats)

Benefits:

 - Provides Healthy Fats: Supports cell function and brain health.

 - Aids in Absorption of Vitamins: Helps absorb fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E, and K.

Dried Oregano

 - Calories: 5

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Vitamin K: 7% of the DV

Benefits:

 - Rich in Antioxidants: Helps combat oxidative stress.

 - Anti-Inflammatory Properties: May reduce inflammation and support immune function.

Ground Cumin

 - Calories: 8

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

 - Iron: 7% of the DV

Benefits:

 - Supports Digestion: May aid in digestion and alleviate digestive issues.

 - Rich in Iron: Supports red blood cell production and prevents anemia.

Chili Powder (Optional)

 - Calories: 6

 - Protein: 0g

 - Fat: 0g

 - Carbohydrates: 1g

Benefits:

 - Boosts Metabolism: Contains capsaicin, which may help increase metabolism.

 - Rich in Antioxidants: Helps reduce inflammation and support overall health.

Salt and Pepper

 - Salt: Provides sodium, essential for fluid balance, but should be used in moderation.

 - Pepper: Contains piperine, which can aid in nutrient absorption.

Toppings (Lettuce, Radishes, Lime, Cilantro, Jalapeños, Avocado)

- Lettuce: Low in calories, rich in vitamins A and K, and supports hydration.

- Radishes: Low in calories, high in vitamin C and antioxidants.

- Lime: High in vitamin C, boosts immune health, and aids in digestion.

- Cilantro: Rich in antioxidants and vitamins A, C, and K.

- Jalapeños: Contains capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and reduce pain.

- Avocado: High in healthy fats, vitamins E, C, and K, and supports heart health.

Including these ingredients in your Pozole not only enhances the flavor but also offers a range of nutritional benefits and contributes to a balanced diet.