Fresh & Flavorful Vegetarian Pozole Verde | Hearty Kale & Hominy Stew

Looking for a hearty, flavorful stew that’s packed with nutrition and perfect for any season? This Vegetarian Pozole Verde with Kale and Hominy will satisfy your cravings with every spoonful! Traditionally made with pork, we’ve swapped out the meat in favor of fresh, vibrant vegetables, creating a dish that’s lighter but still super satisfying. Whether you're feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients:

1 tbsp olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

3 garlic cloves, minced

2 medium zucchini, chopped

1 large poblano pepper, seeded and chopped

1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)

1 can (15 oz) hominy, drained and rinsed

1 can (15 oz) black beans or chickpeas (for extra protein), drained and rinsed

4 cups vegetable broth

2 tsp cumin

1 tsp oregano

Salt and pepper to taste

4 cups kale, stems removed, chopped

For the Green Salsa:

5-6 tomatillos, husked and rinsed

1 cup kale leaves

1/2 cup cilantro leaves

1 jalapeño, seeded (optional for extra spice)

Juice of 1 lime

Salt to taste

Instructions:

Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5 minutes until soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Cook the Vegetables: Stir in the chopped zucchini, poblano pepper, and corn. Sauté for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and absorb the flavors.

Simmer the Broth: Add in the hominy, black beans (or chickpeas), vegetable broth, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes.

Blend the Salsa Verde: While the stew simmers, blend the tomatillos, kale, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, and salt in a blender or food processor until smooth. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Add the Kale: Stir the chopped kale into the stew and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the kale is wilted and tender.

Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the pozole into bowls and top with the vibrant green salsa. Add any additional toppings like sliced avocado, radishes, or a squeeze of lime for extra brightness.

Tips:

Add sliced radishes, diced avocado, or crumbled tortilla chips for extra texture and flavor.

Substitute Swiss chard or spinach for kale if you prefer a milder green.

For a smoky kick, add a pinch of smoked paprika or use roasted poblano peppers.

This Vegetarian Pozole Verde is a deliciously nourishing stew, offering vibrant flavors from the salsa verde, a touch of spice, and a satisfying combination of hearty hominy and kale. Enjoy this comforting meal for weeknight dinners, or wow your guests at your next gathering!