Traditional Mexican Posole Recipe with Crispy Biscotti Croutons
Posole, a traditional Mexican soup, is a warm embrace in a bowl, rich with history and flavor. This delightful dish, made from hominy, has regional variations that showcase the depth of Mexican cuisine. Here, we elevate the classic posole with a twist—adding crispy biscotti croutons for an unexpected crunch that complements the hearty soup beautifully.
Ingredients
For the Posole:
- 2 cups dried hominy (or 2 cans of hominy, drained)
- 1 lb pork shoulder, cubed
- 1 onion, quartered
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken or pork broth
- 2-3 dried ancho chiles, stems and seeds removed
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh lime wedges (for serving)
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Radishes, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Avocado, diced (for garnish)
For the Biscotti Croutons:
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 tsp baking powder
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 2 large eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds (or your favorite nut)
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Posole
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Cook the Pork: In a large pot, combine the cubed pork shoulder, quartered onion, and minced garlic. Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 1.5 hours, or until the pork is tender.
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Add the Hominy: If using dried hominy, rinse and soak them overnight. Add the hominy to the pot (or drain and add canned hominy) along with the dried ancho chiles, ground cumin, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for another 30-45 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Blend the Chiles: While the soup simmers, place the softened ancho chiles in a blender with a little broth from the pot. Blend until smooth, then stir back into the soup for added depth.
Step 2: Make the Biscotti Croutons
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Prepare the Dough: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt. In a separate bowl, beat the eggs with vanilla extract, then combine with the dry ingredients. Fold in the sliced almonds until evenly distributed.
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Shape and Bake: Shape the dough into a log about 12 inches long and place it on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and firm. Let cool slightly before slicing into 1/2-inch thick pieces.
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Toast the Biscotti: Arrange the sliced biscotti on the baking sheet and return to the oven. Bake for an additional 10-15 minutes until crisp and golden on both sides. Allow them to cool completely before serving.
Step 3: Serve
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Dish Up: Ladle the posole into bowls, ensuring each serving has a generous amount of meat and hominy. Top with fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, radishes, and diced avocado for a refreshing contrast.
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Add the Croutons: Just before serving, sprinkle the crispy biscotti croutons over the top for a satisfying crunch.
Cooking Tips
- Ingredient Selection: Choose high-quality pork for maximum flavor. Bone-in cuts can add richness to the broth.
- Chili Variations: For a spicier kick, consider using guajillo or chipotle chiles in addition to the ancho.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the pork with mushrooms or jackfruit and use vegetable broth for a delicious vegetarian posole.
- Storage: Posole can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors develop over time, making leftovers even better!
Pairing Suggestions
Serve your posole with a side of warm corn tortillas or a fresh green salad to balance the hearty soup. A chilled cerveza or a refreshing agua fresca pairs beautifully with the spices of the dish.
Further Exploration
If you’re intrigued by the world of Mexican cuisine, consider reading more about the history of posole and its cultural significance. For a deeper dive into the art of making homemade tortillas, check out this guide: How to Make Tortillas from Scratch.
Embark on this culinary journey and experience the warmth of traditional Mexican posole with a modern twist. Don’t hesitate to experiment with ingredients and flavors—after all, cooking is all about creativity! Enjoy your flavorful creation and share it with friends and family.
