Discover the enchanting flavors of New Mexico with Land of Enchantment Posole, a spicy and hearty soup that warms the hearts of Suzanne Caldwell’s family and visitors during the holiday season. Hailing from Artesia, New Mexico, Suzanne cherishes the joy of sharing this soul-satisfying dish with loved ones, and it never fails to be devoured, leaving no leftovers behind.
INGREDIENTS:
- 1½ pounds pork stew meat, cut into ¾-inch cubes
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 cups beef broth
- 2 cans (15½ ounces each) hominy, rinsed and drained
- 2 cans (4 ounces each) chopped green chilies
- 1 to 2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and chopped (optional)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon pepper
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ cup minced fresh cilantro
- Tortilla strips (optional)
PREPARATIONS:
- In a Dutch oven, cook the pork and onion in canola oil over medium heat until the meat is no longer pink. Add minced garlic; cook for an additional minute. Drain any excess oil. Stir in the beef broth, hominy, chopped green chilies, jalapeno (if desired), salt, ground cumin, dried oregano, pepper, and cayenne.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 45-60 minutes or until the pork is tender. Stir in the minced cilantro. Serve with tortilla strips for an extra crunch, if desired.
YIELD: 5 servings
PREP/COOK TIME: 30 minutes / 1 hour
SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:
- When handling hot peppers like jalapenos, it’s advisable to wear disposable gloves to protect your skin from the oils, as they can cause irritation. Avoid touching your face while handling them.
TIPS:
- For added heat and flavor, consider using jalapeno peppers in the soup. Adjust the quantity according to your spice preference.
Suzanne Caldwell’s Land of Enchantment Posole invites you on a culinary journey to the vibrant Southwest with a delicious and spicy soup that embodies the essence of New Mexico. Traditionally served during the holiday season, this posole carries the warmth and charm of cherished family gatherings in Artesia, New Mexico. Embracing the spirit of sharing, Suzanne’s posole tantalizes the taste buds, leaving no leftovers in sight, as it is devoured with delight by all who partake.
The heart of this aromatic dish lies in the tender pork stew meat, which adds depth and richness to the broth. Simmered to perfection, the flavorful meat mingles with the sweet and earthy notes of onions and minced garlic, creating a symphony of tastes that please the senses.
The soul-satisfying blend of beef broth, hominy, and chopped green chilies transforms the posole into a tantalizing concoction of textures and spices. For those seeking an extra kick, the optional addition of jalapeno peppers adds a fiery dimension to the soup, infusing it with the characteristic heat of New Mexican cuisine.
Suzanne’s culinary expertise shines through in her masterful use of spices. Ground cumin, dried oregano, pepper, and cayenne pepper come together harmoniously, creating a flavor profile that is both rich and invigorating.
As a final flourish, the addition of minced fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness, perfectly complementing the hearty and spicy components of the posole. For an added crunch, tortilla strips can be sprinkled on top, providing a delightful contrast to the velvety broth.
In conclusion, Land of Enchantment Posole is more than just a soup; it is a celebration of culture, tradition, and family. Suzanne Caldwell’s love for her native New Mexico shines through in every spoonful, inviting you to experience the warmth and enchantment of the Southwest. So, gather your loved ones, savor the spicy and hearty goodness, and create your own cherished memories with this delightful posole.
