Pozole Verde

Pozole Verde is a traditional Mexican soup that’s vibrant, zesty, and deeply comforting. Made with tender shredded chicken or pork, hominy, and a flavorful green sauce of tomatillos, chiles, and fresh herbs, this dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or festive gatherings.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love Pozole Verde for its bright, tangy flavor and satisfying heartiness. It’s lighter than the classic red pozole but just as comforting. This one-pot meal is easy to make, feeds a crowd, and is fun to serve with all the traditional toppings so everyone can customize their bowl.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Chicken thighs or pork shoulder
• Hominy (canned or cooked)
• Tomatillos, husked and rinsed
• Poblano peppers
• Jalapeño or serrano peppers (optional, for extra heat)
• Onion
• Garlic cloves
• Fresh cilantro
• Fresh oregano (or dried oregano)
• Chicken broth or stock
• Bay leaves
• Salt and pepper
• Vegetable oil

Optional toppings: shredded cabbage, sliced radishes, chopped onion, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, avocado, tostadas, or tortilla chips.

Directions

this recipe

1. In a large pot, cover the chicken or pork with water and add onion, garlic, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the meat is cooked through and tender (about 45 minutes for chicken, 1.5–2 hours for pork). Remove the meat, shred it, and set aside. Strain the broth.
2. While the meat cooks, roast tomatillos, poblanos, and jalapeños under a broiler or on a hot skillet until charred and softened. Let them cool, then peel the poblanos and remove seeds if desired.
3. Blend the roasted tomatillos and peppers with garlic, onion, cilantro, oregano, and a bit of broth until smooth.
4. In a large pot, heat oil over medium heat. Pour in the green sauce and cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, to deepen the flavor.
5. Add the strained broth back into the pot along with the shredded meat and drained hominy. Simmer for 20–30 minutes to let the flavors meld. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
6. Serve hot with your favorite toppings.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 6–8 people and takes about 30 minutes of prep time and 1.5–2 hours of cooking time (depending on the meat used).

Variations

• Make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth and adding mushrooms or extra hominy instead of meat.
• Add spinach or kale for extra greens.
• Use turkey instead of chicken for a twist.
• Adjust the heat by adding more or fewer chiles.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover pozole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. Pozole also freezes well for up to 2 months — just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What is Pozole Verde made of?

Pozole Verde is made with shredded meat (usually chicken or pork), hominy, and a flavorful green sauce of tomatillos, green chiles, and herbs.

Is Pozole Verde spicy?

It can be mild or spicy depending on how many chiles you use. Adjust to your taste.

Can I make Pozole Verde ahead of time?

Yes, it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded.

What is hominy?

Hominy is dried corn that has been treated to remove the hulls. It adds a unique texture and mild flavor.

Can I use canned hominy?

Yes, canned hominy is convenient and works great. Just drain and rinse before using.

What’s the best meat for Pozole Verde?

Chicken thighs or pork shoulder are traditional choices because they stay tender and flavorful.

How do I serve Pozole Verde?

Serve it with traditional toppings like shredded cabbage, radishes, onion, cilantro, lime, and crunchy tostadas or chips.

Can I freeze Pozole Verde?

Yes, it freezes very well. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.

How do I make it less tangy?

Roast the tomatillos well and balance the tartness with a pinch of sugar if needed.

Is Pozole Verde gluten-free?

Yes, this dish is naturally gluten-free. Just check your broth and toppings for any added ingredients.

Conclusion

Pozole Verde is a delicious, vibrant twist on the classic Mexican soup that’s easy enough for a weeknight and festive enough for a special occasion. Loaded with fresh flavors and customizable toppings, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Gather your loved ones, make a big pot, and enjoy every comforting spoonful!

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