Authentic and Hearty Beef Pozole Recipe

Ingredients

2 lbs of beef stew meat
1 large onion, chopped
6 cloves of garlic, minced
2 cans (15 oz each) of hominy, drained
1 can (28 oz) of diced tomatoes, undrained
2 cans (4 oz each) of chopped green chilies
1 teaspoon of cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon of ground cumin
1 tablespoon of dried oregano
2 teaspoons of salt
1 teaspoon of black pepper
6 cups of beef broth
Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving
Sliced radishes, for garnish

Steps and instructions

Heat a large pot over medium-high heat and add the beef, cooking until browned on all sides.
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, stirring until the onion is translucent.
Add the drained hominy, undrained diced tomatoes, chopped green chilies, cayenne pepper, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt and black pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Pour the beef broth into the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 1.5-2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
Ladle the pozole into bowls and serve with chopped fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and sliced radishes as garnish on the side.

Tools for making

Large pot - for cooking the pozole
Knife - for chopping the onion and mincing the garlic
Cutting board - to use as a surface for cutting ingredients
Ladle - for serving the pozole into bowls
Spoon - for stirring the ingredients in the pot
Measuring spoons - to accurately measure the spices
Measuring cups - to accurately measure the beef broth

Recipe variations

Use chicken or pork instead of beef for a different protein option.
Add diced potatoes or carrots for additional vegetables.
Include a can of beans, such as kidney beans or pinto beans, for added texture and flavor.
Experiment with different spices and seasonings, such as smoked paprika or chipotle powder, to spice up the dish.
Add a splash of lime juice or a dollop of sour cream as a finishing touch.
Top each bowl with avocado slices or guacamole for a creamy element.
Substitute the hominy with corn kernels if it's not available.
Make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth and omitting the meat, replacing it with extra vegetables or tofu.
For a spicier version, add diced jalapenos or a few dashes of hot sauce.
Try garnishing with sliced green onions, shredded cheese, or crushed tortilla chips for added crunch.

Recipe overview

This Beef Pozole recipe offers a hearty and flavorful dish that's perfect for those cold winter days or any time you need a comforting meal. Originating from Mexico, Pozole is a traditional soup that's packed with tender beef, hominy (dried corn kernels that have been treated with an alkali), and a medley of spices. With a robust combination of diced tomatoes and green chilies, this soup brings a delightful balance of heat and tang. Topped off with fresh cilantro, lime, and radishes, this dish also gives you a refreshing crunch. Expect to indulge in a warm, spicy, and savory bowl of soup that will satisfy your taste buds and soothe your soul. Don't be surprised if you find yourself going back for seconds!

Common questions

Can I use a different type of meat? Yes, you can use other types of meat such as chicken or pork instead of beef stew meat. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is cooked through.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan? Absolutely! You can omit the beef stew meat and replace it with plant-based protein alternatives like tofu, seitan, or tempeh. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a vegetarian or vegan version.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker? Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Brown the beef, onion, and garlic in a skillet first, then transfer them to the slow cooker along with the remaining ingredients. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Can I freeze the leftovers? Certainly! Beef pozole freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
What are some optional toppings or garnishes? While the recipe suggests garnishing with chopped fresh cilantro, lime wedges, and sliced radishes, you can also consider adding avocado slices, shredded cheese, sour cream, or tortilla strips as additional toppings.

Serving dishes and utensils

Large pot - A large pot is needed to cook the beef pozole.
Ladle - A ladle is helpful for serving the pozole into bowls.
Chopping board - A chopping board is useful for chopping the onion.
Knife - A knife is necessary for mincing the garlic and chopping the onion.
Stirring spoon - A stirring spoon is needed for stirring the ingredients in the pot.
Bowls - Bowls are required for serving the beef pozole.
Garnish bowls - Additional bowls are helpful for holding the garnishes such as cilantro, lime wedges, and sliced radishes.

Origin stories

Pozole, a traditional soup from Mexico, has a history that reaches back to pre-Hispanic times. The name "pozole" comes from the Nahuatl word "pozolli," which means "frothy," a nod to the appearance of the cooked corn, or hominy, used in the dish. Historically, pozole was considered a dish of significance, prepared for special occasions and rituals. Today, it's a beloved comfort food served in Mexican households and restaurants, with regional variations across the country. While pork is most commonly used, beef pozole offers a delicious alternative, sustaining the heartiness and rich flavor that make this dish a classic of Mexican cuisine.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.