Tuesday’s Cupful: Background On Pozole

A Traditional Mexican Stew

What is so unique about pozole?  This particular soup dish dates back to the pre-Spanish era in Central America.  Pozole had ritualistic characteristics and was only served on special occasions.  Spanish colonization meant changes to the original recipe but hominy and hot chili peppers remain the defining ingredients to this very day.  Look for several modern variants of pozole (aka posole, pozolli, or poso).  The name comes from the Nahuatl word, potzolli.  Recipes may call for pork, chicken, or no meat at all.  Cooks serve pozole with toppings, such as diced radish, sliced cabbage, or avocado wedges.  Meanwhile, some restaurants or pozolerías in Mexico and the American Southwest only serve pozole.