This spicy chicken and hominy soup is inspired by the traditional Mexican pozole, a hearty, thick soup or stew made with hominy, meat or seafood, seasoned with chilies and oregano. It is eaten throughout Mexico and neighboring countries for everyday meals and celebrations. Whip up this flavorful meal when craving bold flavors and a comforting soup.
What is Hominy?
Hominy is dried corn soaked with an alkali solution in a process called nixtamalization that removes the tough hull and makes the corn easier to grind and cook. Nixtamalization also helps the kernels release more nutrients and makes them easier to digest. The resulting chewy, nutty texture works well in rich, spicy soups, making it a staple ingredient in Mexican cuisine.
Hominy Soup Ingredients
- Chicken breasts: Boneless and skinless chick breast provides lean protein and a tender texture.
- Olive oil: Browning the chicken, onions and garlic in olive oil enhances the soup’s flavor and boosts nutrition.
- Onion and garlic: Infuses the soup base with a rich, aromatic flavor that enhances all the other ingredients.
- Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: The canned peppers add a smoky heat and a complex, spicy flavor that defines the soup’s character.
- Chicken broth: This simple, savory liquid base ties all the flavors together into a cohesive soup.
- Hominy: The chewy corn kernels and a slightly nutty flavor are essential for pozole.
- Chopped green chiles: Canned green chilies add a mild heat, enhancing the soup’s complexity.
- Dried spices: Oregano contributes a warm, slightly bitter flavor that complements the other spices. Cumin adds a warm, earthy flavor and deepens the soup’s overall taste.
Directions
Step 1: Brown the chicken and vegetables
In a large skillet, brown the chicken in oil and transfer it to a slow cooker. In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic. Once tender, add them to a 3-or-4 qt. slow cooker.
Step 2: Add the broth and slow cook
Place the chipotle peppers and a little broth in a blender and process until smooth. Combine this with the remaining broth and stir in the hominy, chiles and seasonings. Add this to the slow cooker, cover and cook on low heat for four to five hours or until the chicken is tender.
Hominy Soup Recipe Variations
- Swap out the chicken: Substitute pork shoulder for a richer and more traditional hominy soup.
- Make it vegan: Omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegan or vegetarian variation.
How to Store Hominy Soup
Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to four days. To freeze it, pour it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion and freeze for up to three months.
How to reheat hominy soup
Reheat the soup gently on the stove over medium heat until hot, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between intervals for even heating.
Hominy Soup Recipe Tips
Can I use canned hominy?
Yes, canned hominy works well and is convenient. Just drain and rinse it before adding it to the soup.
Can I make hominy soup in a slow cooker?
This recipe uses a slow cooker for ease. Simply add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for four to five hours.
What can I serve with hominy soup?
In addition to cilantro, avocado and radishes, this soup pairs well with tortilla chips, cornbread or a simple green salad to balance the spicy flavors.
