Pork and Hominy Stew (Posole also spelled pozole) is a thick, hearty Mexican soup that is traditionally served as a main course around the holidays. It is typically garnished with thinly sliced radishes, avocado, tortilla strips, sour cream, or shredded cabbage – but you can top it with whatever you would like. It can also be made with chicken, if you are not a fan of pork. Hominy is a dehydrated corn that can be found in practically all supermarkets. It is typically located in the “ethnic foods” aisle.
Pork and Hominy Stew (Posole)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Thinly slice the pork into bite size strips. In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat, and add the pork strips, onion, and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until brown (about 8-10 minutes).
- Transfer the pork and veggies to a platter and return the saucepan to the stove. Add the chicken broth, carrots, cumin, and red pepper to the pan and bring to a boil.
- Once the mixture boils, reduce the heat to a simmer and cook, covered, for about 8 minutes (or until the carrots are just tender).
- Return the pork and veggies to the saucepan and add the hominy and cilantro and cook just long enough to heat everything through. Top each serving with the sliced radishes, or any toppings you desire.
Video
Notes
Alternative Method: Pressure Cooker Pork and Hominy Stew
If you’re looking for a faster and more convenient way to prepare Pork and Hominy Stew, using a pressure cooker is the perfect choice. This method will tenderize the pork and infuse the flavors in a fraction of the time. Here’s how to make this delicious stew using a pressure cooker:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 can (15 ounces) hominy, drained and rinsed
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional garnishes: chopped fresh cilantro, sour cream, lime wedges
Instructions:
- Set your pressure cooker to sauté mode and heat the vegetable oil. Add the diced pork to the pot and sear until browned on all sides. Remove the pork from the pot and set it aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for a few minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Sprinkle the ground cumin, chili powder, and dried oregano over the onions and garlic. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
- Return the seared pork to the pot and add the drained hominy, chicken broth, and diced tomatoes (with their juices). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Close the pressure cooker lid securely and set it to high pressure cooking mode. Cook the stew for 25 minutes under pressure.
- Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes before performing a quick release to release any remaining pressure.
- Carefully remove the lid and give the stew a gentle stir. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Ladle the Pork and Hominy Stew into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, and a squeeze of lime juice, if desired.
- Serve the stew hot alongside warm tortillas or crusty bread.
By using a pressure cooker, you can enjoy a flavorful and tender Pork and Hominy Stew in a fraction of the time it would take using traditional stovetop or oven methods. The pressure cooker does an excellent job of infusing the flavors and creating a deliciously satisfying meal. Enjoy!
Cooking Tips
To ensure that your Pork and Hominy Stew turns out perfectly every time, here are some valuable cooking tips and insights to guide you through the process. By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you’ll achieve a dish that is bursting with flavor and tender goodness.
- Searing the Pork:
One crucial step in the cooking process is searing the pork. Heat your pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil. Make sure the pork pieces are patted dry and seasoned with salt and pepper before placing them in the hot pan. Sear the pork until it develops a golden-brown crust on all sides. This step locks in the juices and adds depth of flavor to the stew. - Choosing the Right Cut of Pork:
For the most tender and flavorful result, opt for pork shoulder or pork butt when making this stew. These cuts are well-suited to slow cooking and will become incredibly tender as they simmer in the stew. Trim any excess fat from the pork before cooking to achieve a balanced and delectable stew. - Balancing the Flavors:
Pork and Hominy Stew is all about achieving a harmonious balance of flavors. Taste the stew as it simmers and adjust the seasoning if needed. If the flavors seem too concentrated, add a splash of chicken broth or water to dilute them slightly. Remember, it’s easier to add more seasoning gradually than to correct an overly seasoned stew. - Slow and Steady Wins the Race:
The key to a truly remarkable Pork and Hominy Stew lies in allowing it to simmer gently over low heat. This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and the pork to become tender and succulent. Avoid rushing the cooking time by turning up the heat, as this could result in tough meat and less flavorful stew. Patience is a virtue when it comes to creating this delectable dish. - Rest and Reheat:
If time allows, let the stew rest for a little while after cooking. This allows the flavors to further develop and intensify. When reheating leftovers, do so gently over low heat to avoid overcooking the pork. Adding a touch of water or broth during reheating helps to maintain the stew’s moisture and prevents it from becoming too thick.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you have mastered the art of cooking Pork and Hominy Stew, let’s explore the many delightful ways to serve and enjoy this comforting dish. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or treating yourself to a cozy night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience and complement the flavors of the stew perfectly.
- Perfect Pairings for Any Occasion:
Pork and Hominy Stew is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various settings. It is ideal for family dinners, potluck gatherings, or even a weeknight meal. Its hearty nature makes it an excellent choice for colder months, providing warmth and nourishment. Serve it alongside freshly baked cornbread or warm tortillas to complete the meal and soak up the delicious flavors. - Mouthwatering Garnishes and Sides:
To enhance the flavors of the stew, consider adding a dollop of tangy sour cream or a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro. The creamy texture of avocado slices or a squeeze of lime juice can add a refreshing element. For added crunch, serve the stew with a side of tortilla chips or top it with crispy tortilla strips. The contrast of textures will take your dining experience to a whole new level. - Creative Serving Ideas:
While Pork and Hominy Stew is delightful on its own, there are many creative ways to serve it. Consider using the stew as a filling for tacos or burritos, adding shredded cheese, lettuce, and salsa for a satisfying handheld meal. Alternatively, ladle the stew over a bed of steamed rice or cooked quinoa for a heartier presentation. The possibilities are endless, so let your culinary imagination run wild! - Beverage Pairings:
To complement the rich and savory flavors of the stew, pair it with a robust red wine such as Malbec or Syrah. For a non-alcoholic option, opt for a spiced apple cider or a refreshing hibiscus iced tea. These beverages will harmonize with the dish, creating a well-rounded and enjoyable dining experience. - Leftovers and Storage:
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors of the stew develop further as they meld together overnight, making it even more delicious the next day. When reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain the desired consistency. Enjoy the stew within 2-3 days for the best quality.
FAQs
Can I freeze Pork and Hominy Stew?
Yes, you can freeze Pork and Hominy Stew for future enjoyment. Allow the stew to cool completely, then transfer it toan airtight container or freezer-safe bags. Make sure to leave some headspace for expansion. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw the stew in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Can I substitute hominy with another ingredient?
If you can’t find hominy or prefer to use a substitute, you can replace it with canned or frozen corn kernels. While the flavor and texture won’t be exactly the same, it will still add sweetness and a delightful crunch to the stew.
Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Pork and Hominy Stew can be easily adapted to a slow cooker. Simply follow the recipe instructions until step 3, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or on high heat for 3-4 hours, until the pork is tender. The longer cooking time will further enhance the flavors.
Can I use a different meat instead of pork?
Certainly! While pork is traditionally used in this stew, you can experiment with other meats such as chicken or beef. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the meat you choose. Chicken will cook faster, while beef may require a longer simmering time to become tender.
Can I make this stew spicy?
Absolutely! If you enjoy a spicy kick, feel free to add diced jalapeños, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the stew. Adjust the amount according to your heat tolerance. Remember to taste and adjust the flavors as you go to achieve the desired level of spiciness.
Dive into the world of Pork and Hominy Stew with our ultimate guide. Uncover cooking tips to ensure the best results and avoid common mistakes. Explore serving suggestions that cater to different occasions and palates, along with beverage pairings and creative ways to serve the dish. Delve into our FAQs section to find answers to common queries and discover how to store leftovers. Don’t miss our CTA, inviting you to share the recipe and subscribe for more mouthwatering recipes.