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Pozole

Pozole, a beloved red chile and hominy stew, is traditionally made with pork. In this vegan version, small red beans are a compassionate alternative, providing a significant amount of fiber and protein without skimping on flavor.
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes

Ingredients
  

For the Chile Paste

  • 4 large dried ancho chiles, wiped clean, stems removed and seeds shaken out
  • 1 (16 ounce) can diced tomatoes
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 cup chile soaking liquid

For the Stew

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 medium onions, chopped (about 2 cups)
  • 4 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 tsp oregano, preferably Mexican
  • 3 (15 ounce) cans hominy, drained and rinsed
  • 2 (15 ounce) cans small red beans, like pinto beans, drained and rinsed
  • 5 cup vegetable stock or water
  • 2 tsp salt

For the Garnishes

  • 1 small head green cabbage, cored and thinly sliced
  • 1 bunch radishes, trimmed and thinly sliced
  • 1/2 bunch cilantro, leaves only, chopped
  • Lime wedges, for squeezing over each serving

Instructions
 

  • First, make the chile paste. Heat a large skillet over medium heat, and toast the dried chiles for 1 minute on each side. Place the dried chiles in a medium bowl, cover with boiling water, and allow to sit for 20 minutes, until softened. (While you’re waiting, you can prepare the onions, garlic, and garnishes.) When the time has elapsed, drain off the soaking water, reserving 1 cup. Combine the soaked chiles, canned tomatoes, apple cider vinegar, and reserved soaking water in a blender, then blend on high speed until smooth. Set aside. In a large stock pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onions and sauté for 5 to 10 minutes, until softened, translucent, and starting to brown. Lower the heat to medium, and add the garlic, bay leaves, thyme, and oregano, then sauté for an additional minute or two, until fragrant. Add hominy, beans, chile paste, stock or water, and salt, and bring to a boil. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove the bay leaves. To serve, ladle a portion of the stew into a wide, shallow soup bowl. Top with a handful of cabbage, some radishes, a sprinkle of cilantro, and a squeeze of lime, and enjoy!
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