Easy Pork Posole Recipe with Enchilada Sauce

Easy Pork Posole with Enchilada Sauce: A Southwestern Fusion

Easy pork posole recipe with enchilada sauce – This recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional posole, blending the hearty flavors of Mexican pork stew with the tangy richness of enchilada sauce. The result is a surprisingly harmonious combination that delivers a depth of flavor rarely found in standard posole recipes. Inspired by a family road trip through New Mexico, where we stumbled upon a roadside eatery serving a similar dish, this recipe aims to recreate that unique culinary experience.

Ingredients and Pork Preparation

This section details the ingredients needed and the step-by-step process for preparing the succulent pork.

• 2 lbs boneless pork shoulder, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup enchilada sauce (your favorite brand, or homemade – recipe below)
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1/2 tsp oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 cups posole broth (recipe below)
• 6 cups hominy, drained and rinsed

Pork Preparation: Season pork cubes generously with salt and pepper. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Brown the pork cubes in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pot. Once browned, remove pork and set aside. Add onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Stir in crushed tomatoes, diced tomatoes and green chilies, chicken broth, enchilada sauce, cumin, chili powder, and oregano. Return the pork to the pot. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for at least 2 hours, or until the pork is very tender. You can also use a slow cooker for a more hands-off approach; cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Enchilada Sauce Variation: For a homemade enchilada sauce, simply roast 2-3 poblano peppers, then blend them with 1 cup of your favorite tomato sauce, a pinch of cumin, and a touch of oregano. Adjust the spice level by adding a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Posole Broth Preparation

The posole broth is the heart of this dish. Proper simmering time is crucial for developing rich, complex flavors.

• 8 cups water
• 1 large onion, quartered
• 4 cloves garlic, smashed
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
• Salt to taste

Combine all ingredients in a large pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or up to 2 hours for a more intense flavor. Strain the broth before using, discarding the solids. For a thicker broth, you can simmer it uncovered for a longer period. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Assembling the Posole

Combining the elements creates the final delicious posole.

Once the pork is tender, add the prepared posole broth and hominy to the pot. Simmer for another 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning as needed. The ideal texture should be a balance of tender pork, flavorful broth, and slightly firm hominy.

Hominy Type	Cooking Method	Texture	Notes
Dried Hominy	Soaked overnight, then simmered	Firm, chewy	Requires longer preparation time
Canned Hominy	Drained and rinsed	Tender	Convenient and readily available
Fresh Hominy (if available)	Simmered until tender	Slightly soft, delicate	Offers a unique, fresh flavor
White Hominy	Any method above	Mild flavor	Good for those sensitive to strong flavors

Garnishes and Serving Suggestions

Elevating the presentation and taste of the posole.

Garnish generously with chopped white onion, fresh cilantro, thinly sliced radishes, and lime wedges. A squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens the flavors beautifully. The finished dish is a vibrant mix of colors and textures: the deep reddish-brown of the pork and enchilada sauce, the creamy white of the hominy, and the bright green of the cilantro. Serve hot, perhaps alongside warm tortillas and a side of your favorite Mexican rice.

A crisp Mexican beer or a light-bodied red wine would complement the dish perfectly.

Recipe Variations and Adaptations, Easy pork posole recipe with enchilada sauce

Adapting the recipe to various dietary preferences.

• Vegetarian/Vegan: Substitute the pork with hearty vegetables like butternut squash, mushrooms, or jackfruit. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free. Many enchilada sauces are naturally gluten-free.
• Different Pork Cuts: Pork loin or shoulder both work well. Pork belly will result in a richer, fattier broth.
• Spice Level Adjustment: Add more or less cayenne pepper to control the heat.

Cooking Time and Temperature Considerations

Maintaining consistent cooking temperatures is key to achieving optimal results.

Pork should be cooked at a low simmer to ensure tenderness. Overcooked pork will be dry and tough. If the broth is too thin, simmer it uncovered for a longer time to reduce the liquid. If the broth is too bland, add more seasoning or a touch of lime juice. Always taste and adjust seasoning throughout the cooking process.

Expert Answers: Easy Pork Posole Recipe With Enchilada Sauce

Can I use different types of pork?

Yes, shoulder, butt, or even a combination work well. Bone-in pork will add more flavor to the broth.

How long can I store leftovers?

An easy pork posole recipe with enchilada sauce offers a flavorful twist on a classic. For those seeking a deeper, earthier depth of flavor, consider incorporating other rich sauces. You might find inspiration in the unique profiles offered by dried morel mushroom sauce recipes , which could add a sophisticated layer to the posole. Ultimately, the enchilada sauce provides a great base, but experimentation with other complementary sauces can elevate your easy pork posole recipe.

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

What if my broth is too thin?

Simmer uncovered for longer to reduce the liquid. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp cold water) to thicken it.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes, substitute the pork with hearty vegetables like butternut squash, potatoes, or mushrooms. Adjust seasoning accordingly.