Are you craving a hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy meal that’ll warm you from the inside out? Look no further than this easy crock pot posole recipe! This delicious Mexican stew is perfect for a chilly evening, a weekend gathering, or a busy weeknight dinner. Forget complicated recipes and lengthy cooking times; this version uses the magic of your slow cooker to deliver tender pork, vibrant hominy, and a rich, satisfying broth with minimal effort. It's one of those healthy meals that tastes incredibly indulgent, making it a winner for everyone.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can hominy, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 tablespoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced onion, cilantro, avocado, lime wedges, tortilla chips
Instructions:
Get started:
- Place the pork shoulder in your slow cooker.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic directly on top of the pork.
Build the flavor:
- In a medium bowl, whisk together the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, water, chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, pepper, and bay leaf.
- Pour the mixture over the pork and vegetables in the slow cooker.
Slow cook to perfection:
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours, or until the pork is very tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Finishing touches:
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
- Skim off any excess fat from the surface of the broth.
- Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker. Stir in the drained and rinsed hominy.
- Heat through for another 15-20 minutes.
Tips for the Best Posole:
- For deeper flavor: Sear the pork cubes in a little oil before adding them to the slow cooker. This adds a nice caramelized crust.
- Adjust the spice: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your liking. If you prefer a milder posole, omit it entirely.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the pork with 2 (15-ounce) cans of cannellini beans or another hearty bean. Add a tablespoon of vegetable broth concentrate for extra flavor.
- Add more veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or zucchini. Add them during the last hour of cooking.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe's nutritional information will vary based on the specific ingredients used and serving size. For a more precise analysis, use a nutritional calculator with your exact ingredients and serving size. However, as a guideline, a serving of this posole is a good source of protein and fiber, making it a relatively healthy and satisfying meal.
Variations:
- Chicken Posole: Substitute the pork with 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken breasts. Reduce the cooking time accordingly.
- Spicy Posole: Add a couple of chopped jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Red Posole: Use a combination of ancho chilies and guajillo chilies in addition to the chili powder for a richer, deeper red color and flavor.
This easy crock pot posole recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for busy weeknights and special occasions alike. Enjoy the delicious and comforting flavors of this classic Mexican dish! Let us know how your posole turns out in the comments below!