Crock Pot Pozole

Please share this post with your friends 🤗

Delve into the heartwarming world of comfort food as we explore a traditional dish that’s as vibrant as it is nourishing: Pozole. This delicious Mexican stew is synonymous with cozy evenings and family gatherings, and there’s something incredibly satisfying about letting a slow cooker work its magic while you go about your day. This recipe simplifies your experience without compromising authenticity, ensuring that you enjoy every spoonful laden with flavor. Gather your ingredients, and let’s create a bowl of love with this Crock Pot Pozole!

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Crock Pot Pozole is not only easy to prepare but also bursts with robust flavors that encapsulate the essence of Mexican cuisine. Made with tender beef, hominy, and a blend of spices, this dish offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes. The slow-cooked beef melts in your mouth, while the hominy adds a chewy element that complements the savory broth perfectly. Plus, it’s versatile enough to cater to your personal preferences, whether you like it spicy or mild.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 pounds boneless beef loin, cut into 1/2 to 1-inch cubes
• 1 large yellow onion, peeled and diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeno, seeded and diced
• 1 poblano pepper, seeded and chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 4 cups chicken stock
• 29 ounces canned white hominy, drained
• 16 ounces salsa verde
• 7 ounces canned diced green chiles

How To Make Crock Pot Pozole

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

In a skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent and fragrant. This step is essential as it builds the foundation of flavor for your pozole.

Step 2: Brown the Pork

In the same skillet, add the beef loin cubes to the onions and garlic. Brown the beef on all sides, taking about 5-7 minutes. This step adds depth to the flavor of the meat, but don’t worry if you cannot get a perfect brown; the slow cooker will do the rest.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients in the Crock Pot

Transfer the browned beef, onion, and garlic mixture to your crock pot. Add in the jalapeno, poblano pepper, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all the ingredients thoroughly.

Step 4: Add Liquid Goodness

Pour in the chicken stock, followed by the drained hominy, salsa verde, and diced green chiles. This combination creates a lush, vibrant broth that’s bursting with flavor.

Step 5: Slow Cook

Cover your crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours. The long cooking time makes the beef tender and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Adjust and Serve

Once cooked, taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary. If you like it spicier, consider adding more jalapeno or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. When you’re ready to serve, dish out the pozole into bowls and enjoy with your favorite toppings.

Expert Tips

• For extra depth of flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or a dash of smoked paprika during cooking.
• Don’t rush the browning process; it’s key to developing a rich flavor in the dish.
• Feel free to adjust the heat level by adding more or less jalapeño and green chiles according to your taste.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro, radishes, or avocado to brighten the dish and add fresh elements.

Variations and Customizations

• Swap the beef for chicken if you prefer a lighter option; thighs work particularly well.
• For a vegetarian version, use jackfruit in place of meat and vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.
• Add in some diced potatoes or carrots for additional texture and nutrition.
• Experiment with different salsas—mild or roasted—based on your flavor preference.

How to Store Leftovers

To store leftovers, allow the pozole to cool completely then transfer it to airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of chicken stock or water if it has thickened too much. This will help restore the delightful broth consistency.

FAQ

Can I make Pozole ahead of time?

Yes! Pozole tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. You can prepare it in advance and simply heat it up when you’re ready to serve.

Can I freeze Pozole?

Absolutely! Pozole freezes well. Just ensure it’s in an airtight container, and it will be good for about 3 months in the freezer.

What toppings go well with Pozole?

Common toppings for pozole include shredded lettuce, diced radishes, chopped onions, avocado, lime wedges, and fresh cilantro. These add flavor and texture, enhancing the overall experience.

Is Pozole spicy?

The spice level can vary depending on the amount of jalapeño and green chiles used. If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to reduce these ingredients. You can also serve additional hot sauce on the side for those who enjoy a kick.

Conclusion

Crock Pot Pozole is a soul-satisfying dish that warms you from the inside out. With its rich flavors and heartiness, it’s perfect for a cozy family gathering or a comforting meal after a long day. Let the slow cooker do its magic while you go about your day, and look forward to a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Enjoy this vibrant and delicious stew, and don’t forget to customize it to your liking. Happy cooking!

Please share this post with your friends 🤗