How to Make Delicious Pozole Rojo Inspired by Disney California Adventure Park

Craving a taste of Disney Magic in Orange County?

You don't need a park ticket to enjoy a taste of Disney California Adventure Park!

One of the park's most beloved dishes is Pozole Rojo, a traditional Mexican stew bursting with flavor. This hearty blend of tender pork, hominy, and a vibrant blend of chiles is perfect for sharing with friends and family.

Ready to recreate this Disney-inspired dish at home? Let's get cooking!

What is Pozole?

Pozole isn’t just a meal; it's a celebration of Mexican heritage! This beloved traditional soup or stew varies in form, but Pozole Rojo stands out with its eye-catching crimson hue derived from a blend of dried chiles like guajillo and ancho. The term "pozole" means “hominy,” which highlights the unique corn used in this dish. Whether you're hosting a festive gathering for the holidays or simply indulging your cravings, Pozole Rojo delivers warmth, comfort, and a touch of tradition.

Serves 8 – 10

Ingredients

• 2 pounds pork shoulder, cut into 1 to 1½-inch cubes

• 6 garlic cloves, peeled, and split lengthwise

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 large yellow onion, diced

• 1 teaspoon ground cumin

• 2 tablespoons coarse salt, divided

• 6 dried Guajillo chiles

• 2 dried ancho or New Mexico chiles

• ½ medium sweet onion, cut into large pieces

• 3 medium or 2 large plum tomatoes, cut in half lengthwise and cored

• 2 garlic cloves, peeled

• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 1 tablespoon Mexican oregano

• 1 (15-ounce) can white hominy, drained and rinsed

Garnishes

• ½ small head green cabbage, finely shredded

• 6 radishes, sliced thinly

• 3 limes, quartered

• 1 bunch fresh cilantro, large stems removed, leaves roughly chopped

• ½ medium onion, finely diced

Ingredients for Mouth-Watering Pozole Rojo

To create your own enchanting Pozole Rojo inspired by Disney California Adventure Park, gather the following ingredients, each bringing its own magic to the dish:

• Dried Chiles: Opt for a mix of guajillo and ancho chiles for their slightly sweet and smoky flavors. These are available at most Latin markets or in the international aisle at your local grocery store.

• Pork Shoulder: Choose a well-marbled cut to achieve that tender, fall-apart deliciousness.

• Canned Hominy: Using pre-cooked hominy will significantly cut down your prep time and makes this dish effortless.

• Onion and Garlic: These aromatic essentials enrich the dish with depth and fragrance.

• Spices: Fresh cumin, oregano, and chipotle powder will elevate the flavor profile to new heights.

• Chicken Broth: This will be the soul of the stew, simmering the ingredients to perfection.

• Fresh Garnishes: The pièce de résistance! Top your pozole with shredded cabbage, sliced radishes, diced avocado, refreshing lime wedges, and crumbled cotija cheese. Not only do these garnishes add flavor and texture, but they also create a breathtaking display of colors on your plate.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Pozole Rojo

1. Prep the Chiles: Start by removing the stems and seeds from the guajillo and ancho chiles. Soak them in boiling water for about 20 minutes until they soften up.

2. Blend the Chiles: Combine the soaked chiles with a bit of the soaking liquid in a blender. Blend until smooth, creating a luscious sauce.

3. Brown the Pork: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat some oil and brown the pork shoulder on all sides until it's beautifully caramelized. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper for that extra kick!

4. Sauté Onions and Garlic: Add chopped onions to the pot and cook until they are translucent, then stir in the minced garlic until fragrant.

5. Combine Ingredients: Return the pork to the pot, and stir in your blended chile sauce, spices, hominy, and broth. Bring everything to a boil.

6. Let It Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the stew simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, occasionally stirring until the pork is tender and all the flavors meld together beautifully.

7. Serve with Toppings: Ladle your magical Pozole Rojo into bowls and let everyone customize their dish with a variety of fresh garnishes.

Celebrating the Pozole Tradition

In Mexico, pozole is a staple during celebrations and gatherings, serving as a symbol of unity and joy. By bringing Pozole Rojo to your own table, you can experience the warmth of this cherished tradition with your family and friends.

Pro Tips for the Best Pozole Rojo:

• Feel Free to Experiment: While this recipe features pork, feel free to swap it for chicken or beef for a unique twist.

• Add Extra Crunch: Consider topping your pozole with fried tortilla strips or crushed tortilla chips for an added texture.

• Make It Ahead: Pozole tastes even better the next day, so don’t hesitate to prepare it in advance and let those flavors deepen.

Storing and Reheating Your Pozole

If you happen to have leftovers (although we can’t promise you will!), here’s how to properly store them:

• Refrigeration: Allow the stew to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Simply thaw it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Conclusion

This scrumptious Pozole Rojo recipe not only satisfies your taste buds but also brings a touch of Disney magic to your Orange County kitchen. So, gather your ingredients and loved ones, invite your friends  over, and enjoy a delicious feast and shared memories. Your kitchen is about to become the new gathering place, with Pozole Rojo at its heart!

Join the Conversation!

Have you tried making Pozole Rojo? We’d love to hear your stories, tips, or see your delicious creations! Share your culinary creations on social media using #DisneyRealtor and tag me! Let's connect with fellow foodies in Orange County!  Until next time, keep cooking, keep sharing, and most importantly—enjoy your culinary adventures! 🌮❤️