Whenever Mexican cuisine crosses my mind, the festive flavors of pozole soups are always front and center. Picture a comforting bowl of classic red pozole with tender pork or the tangy zest of green pozole with tomatillos and peppers. Every spoonful feels like a little celebration, whether it’s the cozy white pozole with chicken or a fresh twist like seafood or vegetarian mushroom versions. Ready to explore these delicious creations? Let’s dive into a world of flavor with these 12 Mexican pozole soup recipes.
Classic Red Pozole

Classic Red Pozole is a traditional Mexican soup that’s both hearty and flavorful. This delicious dish is renowned for its rich red broth, which gets its vibrant color from dried red chilies. Typically served during festive occasions, pozole is a comforting meal that brings people together.
The combination of tender pork, hominy, and a variety of garnishes such as radishes, lettuce, and lime creates a symphony of flavors and textures that are truly satisfying.
This recipe for Classic Red Pozole serves 4-6 people and is sure to become a favorite for those who enjoy authentic Mexican cuisine. The preparation involves simmering pork until it’s fall-apart tender, blending chilies to make a flavorful sauce, and combining everything into a warming, savory soup. Ideal for a cozy family gathering or a special celebration, this dish invites everyone to customize their bowl with their preferred toppings.
Ingredients:
- 3 pounds pork shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
- 8 cups water
- 1 onion, halved
- 3 cloves garlic, peeled
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 ounces dried ancho chilies
- 4 ounces dried guajillo chilies
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 large can (about 25 ounces) hominy, drained and rinsed
- Garnishes: sliced radishes, shredded lettuce, chopped onions, lime wedges, chopped cilantro, avocado slices
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Pork Broth: In a large pot, combine the pork shoulder, water, halved onion, garlic cloves, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low, and simmer. Cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily pulled apart with a fork. Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface during cooking.
- Prepare the Chili Sauce: While the pork is cooking, remove the stems and seeds from the ancho and guajillo chilies. Place the chilies in a bowl and cover them with hot water. Let them soak for about 20 minutes, or until they’re soft. Drain the chilies and transfer them to a blender. Add the oregano, cumin, and a little of the soaking water. Blend until smooth.
- Cook the Chili Sauce: In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Carefully add the chili sauce to the skillet and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the sauce thickens and becomes fragrant.
- Combine and Simmer: Once the pork is tender, remove the onion, garlic, and bay leaves from the pot. Add the chili sauce and hominy to the pot with the pork. Stir to combine and let the soup simmer for an additional 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. Serve the pozole hot, with a variety of garnishes on the side so that each person can customize their bowl to their liking.
Extra Tips:
For an even richer flavor, you can roast the chilies in a dry skillet before soaking them, which will enhance their smokiness. If you prefer a spicier pozole, consider adding a few dried arbol chilies to the chili sauce.
Make sure to taste the soup as it simmers and adjust the seasoning accordingly. Pozole can also be made a day in advance, as the flavors continue to develop when left to sit overnight. Enjoy with warm tortillas or crusty bread on the side for a complete meal.
Green Pozole With Pork

Traditionally served with a variety of garnishes, Green Pozole With Pork allows everyone at the table to customize their bowl to their liking. Some popular toppings include shredded cabbage, radishes, avocado, lime wedges, and tortilla chips. This dish is perfect for serving 4-6 people, making it a great option for a small dinner party or a family meal. Gather your ingredients and let’s plunge into the process of creating this delicious Mexican soup.
Ingredients for Green Pozole With Pork (serving size: 4-6 people):
- 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into chunks
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic
- 8 cups water
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 pound tomatillos, husked and rinsed
- 2 poblano peppers, seeded and chopped
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and chopped
- 1 bunch cilantro, roughly chopped
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 cans (15 oz each) hominy, drained and rinsed
- Toppings: shredded cabbage, sliced radishes, chopped onions, avocado slices, lime wedges, tortilla chips
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Pork Broth: In a large pot, combine the pork shoulder pieces, onion, garlic, water, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the pork is tender and easily shredded. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface.
- Make the Green Sauce: In a separate pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the tomatillos, poblano peppers, and jalapeño. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are slightly softened. Transfer to a blender and add the cilantro and oregano. Blend until smooth.
- Combine and Simmer: Once the pork is tender, remove it from the pot and shred it using two forks. Strain the broth to remove the solids, then return the broth to the pot. Add the shredded pork back into the broth along with the green sauce and hominy. Stir to combine.
- Cook the Pozole: Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and let it cook for an additional 20-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Serve: Ladle the green pozole into bowls and let your guests add their choice of toppings for a personalized touch. The tangy lime juice and crunchy toppings add wonderful contrast to the warm, savory soup.
Extra Tips:
When preparing the green sauce, you can adjust the spiciness by adding more or fewer jalapeños to suit your taste. If fresh tomatillos aren’t available, canned tomatillos can be used as an alternative.
For a deeper flavor, you can roast the tomatillos and peppers before blending them. Additionally, if you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the hominy before adding it to the pot.
White Pozole With Chicken

White Pozole With Chicken is a comforting and traditional Mexican soup that’s perfect for a hearty meal. This dish is renowned for its rich flavors, combining tender chicken, hominy, and a variety of spices to create a savory broth that’s both satisfying and warming.
Originating from the Aztecs, pozole has long been a staple in Mexican cuisine, often enjoyed during special occasions and celebrations. White pozole, or “pozole blanco,” is a version that omits the red or green chiles, allowing the natural flavors of the chicken and hominy to shine through, producing a milder yet equally delicious soup.
Preparing White Pozole With Chicken involves simmering chicken until tender, then combining it with hominy and a blend of spices to create a flavorful broth. Traditionally, this dish is garnished with fresh ingredients such as radishes, onions, and cilantro, adding a revitalizing crunch and aromatic layer to the soup.
This recipe is perfect for serving 4-6 people, making it ideal for family meals or gatherings with friends. Whether you’re new to Mexican cuisine or a seasoned enthusiast, White Pozole With Chicken is a must-try dish that stands out for its simplicity and rich, comforting flavors.
Ingredients (serving size: 4-6 people):
- 2 pounds of bone-in chicken thighs
- 8 cups of water
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 4 cloves of garlic, peeled
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 teaspoons of salt
- 1 teaspoon of black pepper
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) of white hominy, drained and rinsed
- 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
- 1/2 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- 1 cup thinly sliced radishes
- 1/2 cup chopped white onion
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Broth: In a large pot, add the chicken thighs, water, quartered onion, garlic cloves, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cook for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken thighs from the pot and set them aside to cool slightly. Once cool enough to handle, remove the skin and bones, and shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
- Prepare the Hominy: In a separate pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the drained hominy and sauté for about 5 minutes, ensuring the hominy is well-coated with oil and slightly toasted. Transfer the hominy to the pot with the chicken broth.
- Season the Soup: Add the dried oregano to the pot and stir to combine. Let the soup simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped cilantro, sliced radishes, and chopped white onion. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an added burst of citrus flavor.
Extra Tips:
For a richer flavor, consider using chicken stock in place of water when preparing the broth. If you prefer a spicier version of this dish, you can add sliced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the soup during the simmering process.
To save time, you can use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken instead of cooking chicken thighs. Just shred the rotisserie chicken and add it to the soup along with the hominy. Additionally, for added depth of flavor, you can roast the garlic before adding it to the broth.
Seafood Pozole Delight

Pozole is a traditional Mexican soup that’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. This particular version, Seafood Pozole Delight, combines the warming comfort of pozole with the fresh, vibrant flavors of the sea. It’s a perfect dish for seafood lovers looking to explore a new take on this classic Mexican staple.
This dish is ideal for a family meal, gathering, or even impressing guests with its rich and aromatic broth filled with the goodness of seafood and hominy. Preparing Seafood Pozole Delight involves creating a robust broth that forms the base for the seafood and hominy. The broth is infused with flavors from chilies, garlic, and onions, which perfectly complement the delicate nature of seafood.
With a serving size of 4-6 people, this dish guarantees everyone gets a generous helping of both soup and seafood, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs mixed seafood (such as shrimp, clams, and white fish)
- 1 can (25 oz) hominy, drained and rinsed
- 6 cups fish or chicken broth
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 poblano peppers, roasted, peeled, and chopped
- 2 jalapeños, chopped
- 2 limes, juiced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Seafood: Start by cleaning and prepping your seafood. Rinse the shrimp, clams, and fish under cold water. Remove any shells or scales, and chop the fish into bite-sized pieces. Set aside in the refrigerator until ready to use.
- Roast the Peppers: Roast the poblano peppers over an open flame or under a broiler until the skin is charred. Place them in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap to steam for about 10 minutes. Peel off the skin, remove seeds, and chop them into small pieces.
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and continue to sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Build the Broth: Add the chopped poblano and jalapeño peppers to the pot, followed by the chicken or fish broth. Stir in the oregano, cumin, and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add the Hominy: Stir in the drained hominy and let it cook in the broth for an additional 10 minutes. This will allow the hominy to absorb some of the broth flavors.
- Cook the Seafood: Add the mixed seafood to the simmering broth. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through and opaque. Be cautious not to overcook, as the seafood can become tough.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the pot from heat and ladle the pozole into bowls. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.
Extra Tips:
When making Seafood Pozole Delight, it’s important to use fresh seafood to achieve the best flavor and texture. If fresh seafood isn’t available, frozen options can be a good alternative, just make sure they’re properly thawed before cooking.
Adjust the level of spiciness by varying the amount of jalapeños added—more for a spicier kick, less for a milder taste. Additionally, consider serving the pozole with traditional sides like tostadas or tortilla chips for added texture and flavor. Enjoy this delightful seafood twist on a beloved Mexican classic!
Vegetarian Pozole With Mushrooms

Vegetarian Pozole With Mushrooms is a hearty, flavorful take on the traditional Mexican soup, pozole. Typically, pozole is made with meat, but this vegetarian version uses mushrooms to provide a rich depth of flavor while maintaining the essence of the classic dish. Packed with hominy, a key ingredient that gives pozole its characteristic texture, this soup is both comforting and satisfying.
It’s an excellent choice for vegetarians or anyone looking to enjoy a lighter version of this beloved soup without compromising on taste. This recipe for Vegetarian Pozole With Mushrooms serves 4-6 people and is perfect for a family meal or a small gathering. The earthy mushrooms, combined with a variety of spices and seasonings, create a delicious broth that pairs beautifully with the hominy.
Topped with fresh garnishes like avocado, radishes, and cilantro, this pozole is sure to become a favorite. Whether you’re familiar with pozole or trying it for the first time, this recipe offers a delightful, plant-based variation that’s both nourishing and delectable.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 pound mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini or button mushrooms)
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) hominy, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lime, juiced
For Garnish:
- Sliced radishes
- Diced avocado
- Chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Shredded cabbage
Instructions:
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Cook the Spices: Add the ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, and chili powder to the pot. Stir well to coat the onions and garlic with the spices, cooking for about 1-2 minutes to bring out the flavors.
- Add the Mushrooms: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the sliced mushrooms to the pot. Cook the mushrooms until they’re browned and have released their moisture, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine with Broth and Hominy: Pour in the vegetable broth and add the drained hominy. Stir in the tomato paste until fully combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Finish with Lime: Stir in the lime juice to brighten the flavors of the soup. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the pozole into bowls and top with sliced radishes, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and shredded cabbage as desired.
Extra Tips:
For an even deeper flavor, consider roasting the mushrooms before adding them to the soup. This will enhance their earthiness and add a slight caramelized taste to the dish.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with different types of mushrooms, like shiitake or portobello, for varying textures and flavors. If you want a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
Ultimately, this soup tastes even better the next day, making it a great option for meal prep or leftovers.
Pozole Rojo With Beef

Pozole Rojo With Beef is a traditional Mexican soup that’s rich in flavor and steeped in history. This hearty dish, known for its vibrant red color and robust taste, is made with tender pieces of beef, hominy, and a variety of spices that create a deeply satisfying meal. Pozole Rojo is often enjoyed during celebrations and special occasions, bringing families together with its comforting aroma and taste.
The magic of Pozole Rojo With Beef lies in its combination of dried chiles and aromatic spices, which give the broth its signature red hue and complex flavor profile. The beef is slow-cooked until it becomes incredibly tender, melding with the hominy to create a stew-like consistency. This dish isn’t only delicious but also highly customizable, allowing you to garnish it with a variety of fresh toppings such as shredded cabbage, radishes, and lime for added texture and brightness.
Ingredients (for serving 4-6 people):
- 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into cubes
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 6 garlic cloves, peeled
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 cups water
- 3 cups canned or cooked hominy, drained
- 3 dried guajillo chiles, stemmed and seeded
- 3 dried ancho chiles, stemmed and seeded
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Toppings: sliced radishes, shredded cabbage, chopped onions, lime wedges, chopped cilantro
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Beef Broth: In a large pot, combine the beef cubes, onion, garlic, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper. Add 8 cups of water and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 2 hours or until the beef is tender.
- Prepare the Chile Sauce: While the beef is cooking, toast the dried guajillo and ancho chiles in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Then, transfer the toasted chiles to a bowl and cover with hot water. Let them soak for about 15 minutes until they’re softened.
- Blend the Chiles: Drain the softened chiles and place them in a blender along with the cumin, oregano, and about 1 cup of the beef broth. Blend until smooth and set aside.
- Combine the Ingredients: Once the beef is tender, remove the onion, garlic, and bay leaves from the pot. Stir in the chile sauce and hominy. Simmer the mixture for another 30 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
- Season and Serve: Taste the pozole and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot in bowls, allowing each person to garnish with their preferred toppings, such as radishes, cabbage, onions, lime wedges, and cilantro.
Extra Tips:
For best results, make sure to use high-quality beef chuck as it becomes tender and flavorful after slow cooking. If you prefer a spicier pozole, consider adding more guajillo or even chipotle chiles to the sauce. Additionally, you can prepare the soup a day in advance; the flavors will deepen overnight, making it even more delicious. Ultimately, don’t skip the toppings, as they add a wonderful freshness and contrast to the rich, savory broth.
Spicy Chipotle Pozole

Pozole is traditionally served during celebrations and gatherings, making it an excellent choice for family dinners or festive occasions. The combination of earthy spices and hearty ingredients makes this soup both filling and satisfying. For a serving size of 4-6 people, the following recipe will guide you through the process of creating this flavorful dish in your own kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) hominy, drained and rinsed
- 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- Toppings: sliced radishes, chopped cilantro, shredded cabbage, diced avocado, tortilla chips, and sliced jalapeños
Instructions:
- Prepare the Pork: Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the pork cubes and sear on all sides until browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
- Build the Soup Base: Return the pork to the pot. Add the chicken broth, hominy, chipotle peppers, oregano, cumin, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the pork is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste the pozole and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
- Serve: Ladle the pozole into bowls. Serve with lime wedges and allow everyone to top their soup with their choice of sliced radishes, chopped cilantro, shredded cabbage, diced avocado, tortilla chips, and sliced jalapeños.
Extra Tips:
For a richer flavor, consider preparing the pozole a day in advance. This allows the flavors to deepen overnight.
When choosing chipotle peppers, keep in mind that the adobo sauce adds additional heat and smokiness, so adjust the amount according to your spice preference. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the number of chipotle peppers or remove the seeds beforehand.
Finally, homemade chicken broth can enhance the flavor of the soup greatly, so use it if available.
Pozole With Hominy and Beans

Pozole is a traditional Mexican soup that’s rich in flavor and steeped in history. This particular version, Pozole With Hominy and Beans, is a hearty and satisfying dish that combines the essential elements of the classic pozole with the added texture and nutrition of beans. This variation is perfect for those who are looking for a fulfilling meal that can be enjoyed by both meat lovers and vegetarians alike.
The hominy provides a unique and chewy texture, while the beans add a creamy element to the broth. This recipe serves 4-6 people and is an ideal choice for gatherings or family dinners. The dish is characterized by its vibrant red broth, which is achieved through the use of dried chiles, giving it a slightly smoky and spicy flavor.
The toppings are just as important as the soup itself, as they add layers of freshness and crunch. With a combination of fresh cilantro, radishes, cabbage, and lime, each spoonful is a burst of authentic Mexican flavors. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound pork shoulder, cut into chunks
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) hominy, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 ounces) pinto or black beans, drained and rinsed
- 3 dried guajillo or ancho chiles, stemmed and seeded
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 limes, cut into wedges
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup thinly sliced radishes
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chiles: In a small pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the dried chiles, remove from heat, and let them soak for about 15 minutes until softened. Once softened, blend the chiles with a little of the soaking liquid until smooth. Set aside.
- Brown the Pork: In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the pork shoulder chunks and brown them on all sides. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside.
- Cook the Aromatics: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Stir in the ground cumin and dried oregano, cooking for an additional minute to release their flavors.
- Simmer the Soup: Return the browned pork to the pot. Add the blended chile mixture and stir to coat the pork. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes until the pork is tender.
- Add Hominy and Beans: Stir in the hominy and beans, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to simmer for another 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Serve: Ladle the pozole into bowls and top with fresh cilantro, shredded cabbage, radishes, and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve with extra lime wedges on the side.
Extra Tips:
For an even deeper flavor, consider roasting the chiles before soaking them to enhance their smokiness. If you prefer a spicier pozole, add a few dried arbol chiles to the chile blend.
To save time, you can prepare the toppings while the soup is simmering. This pozole can also be made ahead of time and reheated, as the flavors will develop even more after sitting for a day. Enjoy with warm tortillas or crusty bread to soak up the delicious broth.
Pozole Verde With Turkey

Pozole Verde is a traditional Mexican soup that’s vibrant, flavorful, and incredibly comforting. This version uses turkey, making it a lighter alternative to the traditional pork. The rich broth is infused with a medley of roasted green chilies, fresh herbs, and hominy, creating a symphony of flavors that warm the soul. The dish is perfect for a family dinner or any festive occasion, providing a nourishing and satisfying meal.
The hearty soup is made by simmering turkey with a blend of aromatics and spices until the meat is tender and the flavors meld together. The green sauce, made from tomatillos, jalapeños, and cilantro, brings a fresh and tangy element to this classic dish. Whether you’re a long-time fan of pozole or a newcomer to this Mexican delight, Pozole Verde With Turkey offers a delightful experience for everyone at the table.
Ingredients for 4-6 servings:
- 2 pounds turkey breast or thighs, cut into chunks
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 6 cloves garlic, peeled
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups hominy, drained and rinsed
- 1 pound tomatillos, husked and rinsed
- 2 jalapeños, stemmed and seeded
- 1 bunch cilantro
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Lime wedges, for serving
- Sliced radishes, for serving
- Shredded cabbage, for serving
- Diced avocado, for serving
- Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Cooking Instructions:
- Prepare the Turkey Broth: In a large pot, combine the turkey chunks, onion, garlic, bay leaves, salt, black pepper, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 1 hour, or until the turkey is tender and cooked through.
- Cook the Hominy: While the turkey is simmering, add the hominy to the pot and continue to cook for an additional 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld and the hominy to absorb some of the broth.
- Make the Green Sauce: In a blender, combine the tomatillos, jalapeños, cilantro, olive oil, and ground cumin. Blend until smooth to create a vibrant green sauce.
- Combine Broth and Sauce: Pour the green sauce into the pot with the turkey and hominy. Stir well to guarantee everything is evenly combined. Simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to marry.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper if necessary.
- Serve the Pozole Verde: Ladle the pozole into bowls and serve with lime wedges, sliced radishes, shredded cabbage, diced avocado, and chopped cilantro as garnishes. Encourage guests to customize their bowls with their preferred toppings.
Extra Tips:
To enhance the flavor, you can roast the tomatillos and jalapeños under a broiler for a few minutes before blending. This adds a smoky depth to the green sauce.
If you prefer a spicier pozole, keep some of the jalapeño seeds in the sauce. The soup can be made a day in advance, as the flavors will deepen and improve overnight.
Ultimately, if you’re using leftover turkey, be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking the meat.
Pozole Blanco With Chorizo

Pozole Blanco, a traditional Mexican soup, is a delightful dish that brings together the rich flavors of hominy and tender pork in a savory broth. This version of Pozole Blanco adds a delicious twist with the inclusion of chorizo, which enhances the soup with its spiced, smoky undertones. The combination of hearty ingredients makes it perfect for a cozy meal that warms the soul.
Whether you’re preparing this dish for a family gathering or a casual dinner, Pozole Blanco With Chorizo is sure to impress with its depth of flavor and satisfying texture.
This recipe serves 4-6 people and involves a few simple steps to create a soul-soothing soup. The key ingredients include hominy, chorizo, and tender pork shoulder, all simmered together with a blend of aromatic spices and herbs. The soup is best enjoyed with a variety of garnishes like radishes, avocado, and fresh lime juice, allowing each person to customize their bowl to their taste.
Follow these instructions to create a comforting and flavorful Pozole Blanco With Chorizo that will surely become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into chunks
- 1 pound fresh Mexican chorizo, casing removed
- 2 cans (15 oz each) hominy, drained and rinsed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 teaspoons dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Radishes, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Avocado, diced (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by cutting the pork shoulder into bite-sized chunks. Remove the casing from the chorizo and crumble it into pieces. Chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
- Brown the Meats: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chorizo and cook until it starts to brown and release its oils, about 5 minutes. Remove the chorizo and set aside.
- Cook the Pork: In the same pot, add the pork chunks in batches, browning them on all sides. This should take about 6-8 minutes per batch. Once browned, remove the pork and set aside with the chorizo.
- Sauté Aromatics: Lower the heat to medium and add the chopped onion to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Combine Ingredients: Return the browned pork and chorizo to the pot. Add the hominy, chicken broth, bay leaf, oregano, and cumin. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the pork is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Once the soup is ready, remove the bay leaf. Ladle the pozole into bowls and garnish with chopped cilantro, radishes, and avocado. Serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top.
Extra Tips:
For the best flavor, consider making the soup a day in advance and refrigerating it overnight. This allows the flavors to deepen and meld together.
When reheating, you might need to add a bit more broth or water if the soup has thickened too much. Additionally, customize your pozole with garnishes like shredded cabbage or sliced jalapeños for added texture and spice.
If you prefer a spicier soup, add a pinch of chili flakes or a diced jalapeño during the sautéing step.
Sweet Corn and Squash Pozole

Sweet Corn and Squash Pozole is a delightful twist on the traditional Mexican soup, bringing a touch of sweetness and comfort to the classic dish. This version combines the earthy flavors of squash with the sweetness of corn, creating a balanced, hearty, and nutritious meal. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this recipe is bound to impress with its vibrant flavors and satisfying texture.
This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it an ideal choice for a family meal or a small get-together. The preparation involves simmering the ingredients to blend their flavors beautifully, resulting in a rich and fragrant soup that’s both filling and delicious. With its colorful presentation and mouthwatering aroma, Sweet Corn and Squash Pozole is a dish that not only pleases the palate but also warms the soul.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 2 cups fresh or frozen sweet corn kernels
- 1 medium butternut squash, peeled and diced
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) hominy, drained and rinsed
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Base: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook for another minute, releasing its aroma.
- Add Spices: Sprinkle in the ground cumin, dried oregano, and chili powder. Stir well to coat the onion and garlic with the spices, cooking for another minute to enhance their flavors.
- Simmer the Soup: Pour in the vegetable broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Add the sweet corn kernels, diced butternut squash, and hominy to the pot. Lower the heat to a simmer and cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the squash is tender.
- Season and Finish: Stir in the lime juice, and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Serve: Ladle the pozole into bowls, garnishing each serving with fresh cilantro. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor.
Extra Tips: When preparing Sweet Corn and Squash Pozole, it’s important to cut the squash into evenly sized pieces to guarantee they cook uniformly. If using fresh corn, try grilling it slightly before adding it to the soup for an added smoky flavor.
Additionally, feel free to adjust the amount of chili powder to suit your spice preference. This dish can also be made a day ahead; the flavors tend to meld and improve overnight, making it even more delicious as leftovers.
Pozole With Poblano Peppers

Pozole with Poblano Peppers is a delightful twist on the traditional Mexican soup that brings a smoky and mildly spicy flavor to the table. This hearty soup is rich with tender hominy, succulent pork, and the unique taste of roasted poblano peppers. It’s perfect for a comforting meal that warms you from the inside out.
Pozole is often served during festive occasions in Mexico, but with this recipe, you can bring a little fiesta into your home any day of the week.
This recipe is designed for a serving size of 4-6 people, making it perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering of friends. The addition of poblano peppers adds depth to the broth, while traditional garnishes like radishes, lime, and shredded cabbage provide freshness and crunch.
Follow the steps below to create a delicious and authentic Pozole with Poblano Peppers.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 poblano peppers
- 1 large white onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) hominy, drained and rinsed
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup sliced radishes
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
- Roast the Poblano Peppers:
- Preheat your oven’s broiler. Place the poblano peppers on a baking sheet and broil them for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until the skin is charred and blistered. Remove the peppers from the oven and place them in a bowl covered with plastic wrap or a lid to steam for about 10 minutes.
- Prepare the Pork:
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Season the pork cubes with salt and pepper. Add the pork to the pot and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside.
- Cook the Aromatics:
- In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the ground cumin and dried oregano.
- Make the Soup Base:
- Add the browned pork back to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the pork is tender.
- Add the Poblano and Hominy:
- While the soup is simmering, peel the charred skin off the poblano peppers, remove the seeds, and chop them into small pieces. Add the chopped poblano and drained hominy to the pot. Continue to simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes.
- Season and Serve:
- Taste the pozole and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with lime wedges, shredded cabbage, sliced radishes, and fresh cilantro for garnish.
Extra Tips:
For a spicier pozole, consider adding a jalapeño or serrano pepper along with the poblano peppers. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the hominy before adding it to the pot.
Additionally, to save time, you can use pre-roasted poblano peppers available at some grocery stores. Enjoy this pozole with warm tortillas or crusty bread for a more filling meal.