Authentic Pork Pozole Rojo Recipe: A Hearty, Flavor-Packed Mexican Classic
When it comes to Mexican comfort food, few dishes can rival the rich and vibrant flavors of Pozole Rojo. This pork pozole rojo recipe is a perfect blend of tender pork, earthy hominy, and a flavorful red chile broth that’s sure to please the whole family. With deep roots in Mexican culinary traditions, this dish is both comforting and celebratory—ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. Whether you’re searching for an authentic pozole recipe or an easy pozole recipe, this step-by-step guide will help you create a dish that’s as delicious as it is memorable.
Preparation and Cooking Overview
| Preparation Time | Total Cooking Time | Number of People |
|---|---|---|
| 30 minutes | 2 hours 30 minutes | 6 servings |
Ingredients for My Pork Pozole Rojo
- For the soup:
- 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch chunks
- 1 white onion, halved
- 6 garlic cloves
- 2 bay leaves
- 10 cups water
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 cans (15 oz each) hominy, drained and rinsed
- 4 dried guajillo chiles, stems and seeds removed
- 2 dried ancho chiles, stems and seeds removed
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- For garnishes:
- Shredded green cabbage
- Thinly sliced radishes
- Chopped cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Diced onion
- Tortilla chips or tostadas (optional)
Pro Tips for Success
- Use Bone-In Pork: If available, use pork shoulder with the bone for a richer broth.
- Toast the Chiles: Lightly toast the dried chiles before soaking to enhance their flavor.
- Skim the Broth: Periodically skim off any foam or impurities for a clear and flavorful soup.
- Customize Garnishes: Let everyone top their bowls with their favorite garnishes for a fun and personalized meal.
- Make It Ahead: The flavors deepen when the soup rests overnight, making it perfect for meal prep.
Tools Required for Making This Recipe
- Large stockpot
- Blender
- Strainer
- Tongs
- Cutting board and knife
- Ladle
Substitutions and Variations
| Substitution | Original Ingredient | New Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Chicken thighs | Pork shoulder | Lighter and more tender soup |
| Vegetable broth | Water | Enhanced depth of flavor |
| Fresh corn kernels | Canned hominy | Sweet and slightly crunchy |
| Pasilla chiles | Guajillo chiles | Milder, smokier broth |
| Vegan protein (tofu) | Pork shoulder | Plant-based and hearty |
Make Ahead Tips
- Prepare the Broth Early: Simmer the pork and aromatics ahead of time and store in the fridge for up to two days.
- Blend the Chile Sauce: Make the chile sauce and refrigerate for up to three days or freeze for up to a month.
- Assemble Day-Of: Combine the broth, hominy, and chile sauce when ready to serve.
Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Pork Pozole Rojo
1. Cook the Pork
In a large stockpot, combine pork shoulder, halved onion, garlic, bay leaves, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 1.5–2 hours until the pork is tender. Skim off any foam during cooking.
2. Prepare the Chile Sauce
Toast guajillo and ancho chiles in a dry skillet until fragrant. Soak in hot water for 15 minutes until softened. Blend with cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and 1 cup of the soaking liquid until smooth.
3. Strain the Sauce
Strain the blended chile sauce through a fine-mesh strainer to remove any solids, leaving a smooth, rich liquid.
4. Combine and Simmer
Add the chile sauce and hominy to the pot with the cooked pork. Simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Adjust Seasoning
Taste the soup and adjust the salt and spices as needed. Remove bay leaves before serving.
6. Serve and Garnish
Ladle the pozole into bowls and serve with shredded cabbage, radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and any additional garnishes.
AI Image Prompt: “A bowl of Pork Pozole Rojo topped with shredded cabbage, sliced radishes, lime wedges, and chopped cilantro, with tortilla chips on the side. On a rustic wooden table with colorful Mexican cloth underlay, natural lighting, taken with an iPhone 15 Pro in a top-down blogger style.”
Serving Suggestions for Pork Pozole Rojo
| Pairing Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Warm tortillas | Perfect for scooping up the rich broth. |
| Mexican rice | A hearty side to complement the soup. |
| Agua fresca | Refreshing fruit-based drink for balance. |
Tips for Leftovers and Storage
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm over low heat on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens.
- Freezing: The soup freezes well without the garnishes for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Information and Benefits of This Dish
This dish is high in protein and fiber, with approximately 350 calories per serving. The hominy provides complex carbs, while the chiles add antioxidants and vitamin C. It’s hearty and nutritious, perfect for a balanced meal.
Suggested Drink That Pairs With the Dish
Pair this Pork Pozole Rojo with a classic Mexican beer like Modelo Especial or Pacifico. The crisp, light flavor of the beer complements the rich, spicy broth. For a non-alcoholic option, a tart hibiscus tea (agua de jamaica) offers a refreshing counterpoint.
Enjoy!
This Pork Pozole Rojo is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of Mexican heritage and flavors. Whether you’re making it for a festive occasion or a comforting dinner, this recipe will fill your home with warmth and joy. Gather your family, serve it with all the garnishes, and enjoy the vibrant taste of this authentic dish!
