Slow Cooker Pork Posole Recipe (Guide)

Let’s dive into a dish that’s as comforting as it is full of flavor: slow cooker pork posole. If you’ve never tried posole, picture a rich, hearty stew with tender pork, hominy, and a blend of vibrant spices, all simmered to perfection. Originating from Mexico, posole (sometimes spelled ’pozole’) is traditionally enjoyed during celebrations, family gatherings, or on any day you simply want a bowl of warmth and satisfaction. The beauty of making it in a slow cooker is that it allows all those deep, complex flavors to meld together effortlessly while you go about your day. By the time you’re ready to eat, the pork is meltingly tender, the broth is rich and savory, and the garnishes-fresh radishes, lime, cilantro, and crunchy tostadas-add that perfect pop of brightness and texture.

This recipe is designed for ease, flavor, and versatility. You can make it mild for a cozy dinner or spice it up for a festive crowd. Ready to create a dish that’s both traditional and deeply satisfying? Let’s get cooking.

Slow Cooker Pork Posole Recipe

Cooking posole in a slow cooker is like giving your kitchen a magic wand. You add a few simple ingredients, set the timer, and walk away, knowing that a deeply flavorful, soul-warming meal will be waiting for you hours later. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, meal prepping for the week, or impressing guests with minimal hands-on effort.

The star of the dish is pork shoulder-juicy, flavorful, and full of collagen that enriches the broth. Combine that with hominy, which provides a satisfying bite, and a mix of chile-based sauces and spices, and you’ve got a stew that’s hearty, wholesome, and unforgettable.

Ingredient List

Here’s everything you’ll need for this slow cooker pork posole:

• 2-3 lbs pork shoulder or pork butt, cut into large chunks
• 2 cans (15 oz each) hominy, drained and rinsed
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2-3 dried chiles (like guajillo, ancho, or pasilla), soaked and blended
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional but adds a smoky depth)
• 4 cups chicken or pork broth
• 1 cup tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for browning pork, optional)

For Garnish (optional But Highly Recommended)

• Fresh lime wedges
• Sliced radishes
• Chopped cilantro
• Shredded cabbage or lettuce
• Avocado slices
• Tortilla chips or tostadas

Instruction Guide

Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting this dish from raw ingredients to a bubbling, aromatic feast:

1. Prepare The Chiles

   • Remove stems and seeds from your dried chiles.
   • Soak them in hot water for 15-20 minutes until soft.
   • Blend the softened chiles with a little soaking water into a smooth paste.

2. Optional Pork Browning

   • Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear pork chunks until browned on all sides.
   • This step adds depth to the flavor but can be skipped if you’re short on time.

3. Assemble The Slow Cooker

   • Add pork, hominy, chopped onion, garlic, chile paste, tomato sauce, cumin, oregano, smoked paprika, and broth to the slow cooker.
   • Stir to combine everything evenly.

4. Cook Low And Slow

   • Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
   • The pork should be tender and shreddable, and the flavors fully melded.

5. Finish And Season

   • Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or spice level.
   • If you prefer a thicker broth, remove a portion of the hominy and mash it slightly before stirring it back in.

6. Serve

   • Ladle posole into bowls and pile on your favorite garnishes.
   • A squeeze of lime juice and a few cilantro leaves can completely elevate the dish.

Ingredient Swaps

Not all pantries are stocked the same way, so here are some substitutions if needed:

• Pork shoulder → Chicken thighs or turkey chunks for a lighter version
• Hominy → Canned white beans or chickpeas (texture changes slightly)
• Dried chiles → Chili powder or a combination of smoked paprika + cayenne (less authentic but still tasty)
• Chicken/pork broth → Vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly adaptation

Helpful Tips

Maximize flavor, texture, and ease with these tricks:

• Soak chiles in hot water: This removes bitterness and makes blending smoother.
• Brown your pork: It adds a rich, caramelized flavor that deepens the stew.
• Skim excess fat: After cooking, skim the surface if you prefer a leaner broth.
• Make ahead: Posole tastes even better the next day as flavors meld.

Customization Ideas

Make this posole your own with these creative twists:

• Spicy kick: Add a chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce.
• Vegetable boost: Throw in diced carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for more nutrients.
• Smoky twist: Use chipotle peppers in adobo instead of dried chiles.
• Richer broth: Add a splash of beer or a few tablespoons of masa harina for a thicker texture.

FAQs

What Is Pork Posole?

Pork posole is a traditional Mexican stew made with pork, hominy, and a flavorful broth typically seasoned with chili peppers, garlic, and other spices. It is often garnished with cabbage, radishes, lime, and cilantro.

Can I Make Pork Posole In A Slow Cooker?

Yes, slow cookers are ideal for making pork posole because they allow the pork to become tender and the flavors to meld over several hours without constant monitoring.

What Cut Of Pork Is Best For Slow Cooker Posole?

Shoulder or butt cuts of pork are best because they are well-marbled, become tender during slow cooking, and release rich flavors into the broth.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Pork Posole In A Slow Cooker?

Cooking time can vary depending on the slow cooker, but generally it takes 6-8 hours on low heat or 3-4 hours on high heat for the pork to become tender and fully cooked.

Do I Need To Soak Hominy Before Using It In Posole?

Canned hominy does not require soaking and can be added directly to the slow cooker. Dried hominy should be soaked and cooked beforehand to ensure proper texture.

What Type Of Chili Peppers Should I Use?

Dried chiles such as guajillo, ancho, or pasilla are commonly used. They are typically soaked in hot water, blended into a paste, and added to the slow cooker for a rich, smoky flavor.

Can I Make Pork Posole Ahead Of Time?

Yes, pork posole often tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

What Are Common Toppings For Pork Posole?

Common toppings include shredded cabbage or lettuce, sliced radishes, diced onions, chopped cilantro, lime wedges, avocado, and crushed tortilla chips for added texture.

Is Pork Posole Gluten-free?

Yes, traditional pork posole is naturally gluten-free, provided that all ingredients, such as chili sauces and broth, do not contain gluten additives.

Can I Make A Vegetarian Version In A Slow Cooker?

Yes, you can substitute pork with vegetables, mushrooms, or jackfruit, and use vegetable broth instead of pork broth. The hominy and chili paste still provide a rich, satisfying flavor.