This Easy Slow Cooker Pozole is the perfect dish for cozy dinners! Made with tender pork, hominy, and delicious spices, it’s warm and comforting.
There’s something magical about letting the slow cooker do all the work! I love how I can set it and forget it, coming home to a tasty meal that warms me from the inside out.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Pork Shoulder: This cut is perfect for slow cooking because it becomes tender and juicy. If you’re looking for a leaner option, you can use chicken thighs or even turkey, but the flavor will differ a bit.
Hominy: This is the star of pozole, adding a unique texture. If you can’t find canned hominy, you can cook dried hominy—just soak it overnight and add it early in the cooking process.
Spices: The combination of cumin, oregano, and chili powder gives pozole its signature flavor. You could swap out the chili powder for taco seasoning if you’re in a pinch. I also like to add a pinch of cayenne for extra kick!
Dried Chilies: Guajillo or ancho chilies add a nice depth. If you can’t find them, you can opt for a mild chili powder or omit them entirely, especially if you prefer a milder pozole.
How Do I Make Sure the Pork is Tender?
The secret to tender pork lies in the slow cooking process. Make sure to use a good cut like pork shoulder, which has enough fat to keep it juicy. Here’s what to do:
- Cut the pork into chunks to help it cook evenly.
- Don’t rush it! Cooking on low for 8 hours will really tenderize the meat.
- After cooking, shred the pork while it’s warm to keep the fibrous texture; it’ll absorb more flavor that way.
By following these tips and using the right ingredients, you’ll create a delicious and hearty pozole that’s sure to comfort anyone during cozy evenings! Enjoy!
Easy Slow Cooker Pozole
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pozole:
- 2 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt, trimmed and cut into chunks
- 1 large onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cans (15 oz each) white hominy, drained and rinsed
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 2 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 dried guajillo or ancho chilies, stemmed and seeded (optional, for mild smoky heat)
For Garnishing:
- Juice of 1 lime
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Thinly sliced radishes
- Shredded cabbage or lettuce
- Avocado slices
- Lime wedges (for serving)
- Dried red chili flakes or hot sauce (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Easy Slow Cooker Pozole will take about 15 minutes to prepare and then 8 hours of cooking time on low (or 4-5 hours on high). Make sure to give yourself plenty of time for the flavors to meld together and the pork to become perfectly tender!
step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Dried Chilies (if using):
If you’re using guajillo or ancho chilies for added flavor, soak them in hot water for about 15 minutes until they soften. After soaking, blend them with a little bit of the soaking water until smooth. This step is optional but adds a lovely depth to your pozole!
2. Load the Slow Cooker:
In the slow cooker, add the pork chunks, quartered onion, minced garlic, drained hominy, chicken broth, ground cumin, oregano, chili powder, smoked paprika, black pepper, salt, and the blended chili sauce if you made it. Give everything a good stir to mix it all together.
3. Cook it Up:
Now it’s time to cover your slow cooker and let it work its magic. Set it to cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the pork becomes tender and easily shreds apart with a fork. It’s so easy!
4. Shred the Pork:
Once your cooking time is up, carefully remove the pork pieces from the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the pork into bite-sized pieces, then return the shredded pork back into the slow cooker. This will help to enrich the soup with flavor.
5. Final Touches:
Add in the fresh lime juice for a zesty kick and taste your pozole. Adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired. It should be bursting with flavor!
6. Serve and Garnish:
Now it’s time to serve your pozole hot! Ladle it into bowls and top with garnishes like chopped cilantro, sliced radishes, shredded cabbage or lettuce, avocado slices, and lime wedges on the side. For those who like it spicy, provide dried red chili flakes or hot sauce as an extra on the table.
Enjoy your cozy dinner with this hearty, flavorful Slow Cooker Pozole! It’s sure to warm up any chilly evening!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Easy Slow Cooker Pozole
Can I Use Different Types of Meat?
Yes! While pork shoulder is traditional for pozole, you can swap it for chicken thighs or turkey if you prefer. Just ensure to adjust the cooking time, with chicken typically needing around 6 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high.
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you like your pozole mild, you can reduce or omit the chili powder and skip the dried chilies. For extra heat, consider adding more chili powder or some diced jalapeños. Always taste as you go to find your perfect balance!
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Use vegetable broth and substitute the pork with cubed tofu, jackfruit, or a mix of beans and vegetables. You may want to add extra spices for flavor and ensure the cooking time is adjusted accordingly for the different ingredients.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months—just remember to thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating!
