Pozole for the People: Budget Cooking for Mexican Independence Day

Mexican Independence Day is a time for celebration, and there’s no better way to celebrate than with a big, steaming bowl of pozole. This traditional Mexican stew is a staple of celebrations and is surprisingly easy and affordable to make at home. This recipe for a classic pozole rojo with pork will have your friends and family shouting “Viva México!”

The History of Pozole

Pozole has a rich history that dates back to the Aztecs. It was originally a sacred dish that was served on special occasions. Today, it’s a beloved comfort food that’s enjoyed throughout Mexico and the United States.

The Recipe

This recipe makes a large pot of pozole, enough to feed a crowd. It’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup for you.

• Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 (25-ounce) cans hominy, rinsed and drained
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 dried ancho chiles, stemmed and seeded
  • 2 dried guajillo chiles, stemmed and seeded
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

• For the Garnish:

  • Shredded cabbage
  • Sliced radishes
  • Chopped onion
  • Lime wedges
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Tostadas

• Instructions:

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cover the dried chiles with hot water and let them soak for 30 minutes.
  2. While the chiles are soaking, brown the pork shoulder in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Remove the pork and set aside.
  3. Add the onion to the pot and cook until softened.
  4. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
  5. Once the chiles are softened, remove them from the water and place them in a blender with 1 cup of the soaking liquid. Blend until smooth.
  6. Strain the chile sauce into the pot with the onions and garlic.
  7. Return the pork to the pot, along with the hominy, chicken broth, and oregano. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and cook for 2-3 hours, or until the pork is tender.
  8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. Serve the pozole hot with the garnishes on the side.

Budget-Friendly Tips

• Pork Shoulder: This is an inexpensive cut of meat that’s perfect for pozole. Look for it on sale at your local Jewel-Osco.
• Dried Chiles: You can find dried chiles at most Mexican grocery stores or in the international aisle of your local Jewel-Osco. Buying them in a bag is often cheaper than buying them in a jar.
• Hominy: Canned hominy is a budget-friendly and convenient option. Look for it on sale and stock up.

Gather your friends and family, make a big pot of pozole, and celebrate Mexican Independence Day in style!