When the chilly air sets in and the days grow shorter, there’s nothing quite like the inviting aroma of Pozole Verde wafting through the kitchen. This traditional Mexican stew is a celebration of flavor and warmth, combining tender chicken and hominy in a vibrant, tangy broth crafted from fresh tomatillos and zesty green chiles. I surely stumbled upon this heartwarming dish during a quest for comfort food, and I’ve never looked back!
Not only is Pozole Verde incredibly easy to whip up—taking just one hour to prepare—but it’s also versatile enough for any occasion, from festive gatherings to cozy family dinners. Each bowl is a hearty embrace of flavors and textures, perfect for those who want to break free from mundane takeout. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a cooking novice, you’ll fall in love with this delightful stew that brings a touch of tradition to your table. With the option to adapt it for slow cookers or Instant Pots, savoring a flavorful homemade meal has never been easier!
Why is Pozole Verde a Must-Try Recipe?
Comforting, this stew wraps you in warmth with every flavorful spoonful. Simple preparation allows even beginner cooks to shine in the kitchen. Versatile, it can effortlessly adapt to any dietary preference—switching protein or going vegetarian is a breeze! Crowd-pleaser, this dish is perfect for family dinners or festive occasions, guaranteed to impress guests. Hearty and nourishing, Pozole Verde fills your belly and soul, making it a delightful meal for chilly evenings. Dive into this authentic Mexican experience and elevate your homemade cooking game!
Pozole Verde Ingredients
• Here’s everything you need to create a hearty Pozole Verde.
For the Stew
- 2 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs – The main protein; choose bone-in for juicier results.
- 1 pound tomatillos – Essential for that tangy broth; fresh is best, but canned works too if blended.
- 1 large white onion – Adds depth to the stew’s flavor.
- 3 jalapeño peppers – Provides heat; deseed for milder flavor or use serranos for extra spice.
- 2 cloves garlic – Enhances the savory profile; fresh garlic reigns supreme!
- 1 tablespoon Mexican oregano – Brings authentic herb notes; regular oregano can substitute if needed.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt – A flavor enhancer; adjust according to taste.
- 6 cups broth (chicken or vegetable) – The stew’s base; homemade is preferred for rich flavor.
- 1 cup cilantro (stems and leaves) – Infuses freshness; no substitutions necessary.
- 2 (15-ounce) cans white hominy – Adds texture and heartiness; rinse and drain before use.
These ingredients will come together to create the comforting, vibrant bowl of Pozole Verde that’s sure to become a favorite in your home!
How to Make Pozole Verde
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Combine Ingredients: In a large pot or Dutch oven, gather your chicken thighs, tomatillos, onion, jalapeños, garlic, Mexican oregano, kosher salt, and broth. Bring everything to a boil over high heat for a vibrant start!
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Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover partially, and allow it to simmer for 40 minutes. You want the chicken to be fork-tender and infused with flavors.
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Shred Chicken: Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Set it aside to be mixed in later—the texture will add a heartiness to the stew!
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Blend Sauce: In a blender, combine the cooked tomatillos, onion, jalapeños, garlic, and 1 cup of the cooking liquid. Add the cilantro and blend until smooth for that delicious creamy texture!
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Combine and Simmer Again: Return the blended sauce to the pot, add the shredded chicken and hominy, and stir everything together. Let it simmer uncovered for another 15 minutes to meld those flavors beautifully.
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Serve: Dish out the Pozole Verde hot, garnished with lime wedges, sliced radishes, shredded cabbage, diced onions, and extra cilantro for that fresh touch!
Optional: A dollop of sour cream adds richness and balances the tanginess!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Pozole Verde
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Choose Juicy Chicken: Using bone-in chicken thighs can elevate the flavor and juiciness. If opting for chicken breast, monitor cooking time closely to avoid dryness.
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Fresh Tomatillos: For an authentic taste, always choose fresh tomatillos. If you must use canned ones, blend them before adding to the pot for better flavor integration.
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Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder Pozole Verde, remove the seeds from jalapeños before adding them. Consider trying different peppers for a unique heat profile.
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Cooking Appliance Options: For convenience, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker or Instant Pot, making it easy to enjoy homemade Pozole Verde any day.
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Garnish Wisely: Enhance your dish by garnishing with fresh toppings like lime wedges and cilantro, which brighten the flavors and add texture.
Make Ahead Options
Pozole Verde is a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the broth and cook the chicken up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerating them separately to maintain their flavors and textures. Simply simmer the broth with the ingredients, allow it to cool, and store it in airtight containers. When it’s time to enjoy your Pozole Verde, just reheat the broth and add the shredded chicken and hominy, simmering for about 15 minutes to meld the flavors. For optimal quality, store garnishes separately to keep them fresh until serving. With this planning, you can have a hearty, delicious meal ready with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Pozole Verde
Fridge: Store leftover Pozole Verde in an airtight container for up to 5 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze Pozole Verde in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. This allows you to enjoy homemade comfort food whenever you crave it!
Reheating: Gently reheat in a pot on the stove over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to reach the desired consistency.
Assembly: If you have toppings like cabbage, cilantro, or radishes, consider storing them separately to keep them fresh and crunchy when you serve the Pozole Verde again.
What to Serve with Pozole Verde?
Warm your heart and elevate your dinner experience with delightful sides and accompaniments that pair beautifully with your savory stew.
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Crispy Tortilla Chips: The crunch of tortilla chips adds an exciting texture contrast. Perfect for dipping in the broth, they make each bite an adventure.
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Mexican Street Corn Salad: This vibrant salad brings a fresh mix of flavors that complements the stew’s richness, plus it’s a colorful addition to your table.
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Zesty Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado slices provide a luxurious contrast to the spicy broth. They’re not only tasty but also lend a refreshing touch with every spoonful.
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Shredded Cabbage: Adding shredded cabbage as a topping introduces a delightful crunch and a fresh, slightly sweet element that brightens the dish.
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Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime cuts through the richness, enhancing the tangy notes of the Pozole Verde while brightening the overall flavor profile.
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Chilled Horchata: Pair your meal with a glass of traditional horchata. This sweet, creamy rice drink is the perfect refresher to offset the soup’s kick.
Embrace the cozy atmosphere of a family dinner or festive gathering by layering flavors and textures that accompany the heartwarming essence of Pozole Verde!
Pozole Verde Variations
Feel free to get creative and make this delightful dish your own!
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Pork Option: Substitute chicken with pork shoulder for a richer flavor; cook until tender and shreddable.
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace meat with a medley of mushrooms and vegetables, using vegetable broth to maintain the hearty texture.
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Spice Up: Add diced poblano peppers or a dash of cayenne for an extra kick of heat that will warm your soul.
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Creamy Addition: Stir in a cup of cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end for a velvety richness that elevates the broth.
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Zesty Twist: Incorporate a splash of lime juice while simmering for a zesty, bright finish that enhances the overall flavor.
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Quinoa Booster: Add cooked quinoa or lentils for additional protein and fiber, making this dish even more nourishing.
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Herbal Infusion: Try using fresh basil or mint alongside cilantro to create a unique herbal note that adds complexity.
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Crunchy Toppings: Experiment with different toppings like crumbled queso fresco or crispy tortilla strips to vary the texture with each delicious bite.
Pozole Verde Recipe FAQs
What type of tomatillos should I use for Pozole Verde?
Absolutely! Fresh, firm tomatillos are ideal for that authentic tangy flavor essential to the broth. If you can’t find them, you can use canned tomatillos as a substitute—just blend them directly without cooking to infuse the same delightful taste!
How long can I store leftover Pozole Verde?
Your delicious Pozole Verde can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just remember to let it cool before sealing it up. For even longer enjoyment, consider freezing it!
Can I freeze Pozole Verde?
Very much so! To freeze Pozole Verde, pour it into an airtight container or freezer bag—leaving a bit of space at the top for expansion—and it will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove over low heat.
What should I do if my Pozole Verde is too spicy?
If you find your Pozole Verde spicier than expected, fear not! You can add more broth to dilute the heat and balance the flavors. Alternatively, adding a dollop of sour cream or avocado can help tame the spiciness while enhancing the creaminess of your dish.
Is Pozole Verde gluten-free?
Yes, Pozole Verde is completely gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease. Just be sure you use gluten-free broth if you’re opting for store-bought; homemade broth is always a safe bet!
Can I make Pozole Verde vegetarian?
Definitely! To create a vegetarian version of Pozole Verde, simply replace the chicken with hearty mushrooms or an assortment of your favorite vegetables, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. This maintains the richness without losing the authentic essence of the dish!
Savory Pozole Verde: A Hearty Mexican Comfort in 1 Hour
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, gather your chicken thighs, tomatillos, onion, jalapeños, garlic, Mexican oregano, kosher salt, and broth. Bring everything to a boil over high heat for a vibrant start!
- Once boiling, reduce the heat, cover partially, and allow it to simmer for 40 minutes. You want the chicken to be fork-tender and infused with flavors.
- Carefully remove the chicken from the pot and shred it using two forks. Set it aside to be mixed in later—the texture will add a heartiness to the stew!
- In a blender, combine the cooked tomatillos, onion, jalapeños, garlic, and 1 cup of the cooking liquid. Add the cilantro and blend until smooth for that delicious creamy texture!
- Return the blended sauce to the pot, add the shredded chicken and hominy, and stir everything together. Let it simmer uncovered for another 15 minutes to meld those flavors beautifully.
- Dish out the Pozole Verde hot, garnished with lime wedges, sliced radishes, shredded cabbage, diced onions, and extra cilantro for that fresh touch!