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There’s nothing quite like the warmth of a hearty stew to lift your spirits, and Ken’s Kickin’ Posole is a prime example. The moment you take your first whiff of the subtly smoky roasted poblanos mingling with tender pork and spices, you’ll find yourself transported to a cozy kitchen filled with a sense of home. I remember the day I decided to create this dish; I wanted something comforting yet bold, and this stew delivered on both counts.

Perfect for chilly evenings or when you need to impress guests without slaving away in the kitchen, this one-pot wonder is packed with flavor and nourishment. It’s gluten-free and designed to bring people together, whether you’re enjoying it at family dinners or shared with friends over warm corn tortillas. Not only does it offer a delightful kick, but the versatility means you can easily adapt it to suit your dietary preferences. So, roll up your sleeves, and let’s dive into this culinary adventure—you won’t be disappointed!

Why is Ken’s Kickin’ Posole Unforgettable?

Deliciously hearty and savory, every spoonful brings delightful warmth, perfect for cozy dinners or gatherings. Flavorful ingredients like smoky roasted poblanos and tender pork create an aromatic experience that tantalizes the taste buds. Adaptable for everyone, whether you’re a meat lover or vegetarian, this stew can easily cater to various preferences. One-pot simplicity means less cleanup, while its crowd-pleasing appeal ensures that everyone around the table leaves satisfied. Dive into a bowl of comfort and experience a dish that not only nourishes but also brings people together.

Ken’s Kickin’ Posole Ingredients

Get ready to savor this bold and hearty stew!

For the Base

Poblano Chiles – These smoky beauties provide mild heat; swap with Anaheim peppers for a similar vibe.
Jalapeño Peppers – Adding a fresh, spicy kick; use less if you prefer a milder stew.
Bacon – Infuses richness; for a leaner option, go for turkey bacon.
Pork Loin Cubes – Tender and juicy, serve as the main protein; boneless pork shoulder offers even more flavor.
Onion – Sweetness is your friend in this stew; shallots can be used for a milder twist.
Garlic – Enhances aroma and flavor; fresh is the way to go, but garlic powder works in a pinch.

Herbs and Spices

Dried Oregano – Adds an earthy depth; thyme can be a great alternative.
Cumin – A warm, nutty touch; coriander offers a different flavor if needed.
New Mexico Chile Powder – Delivering mild spiciness and richness; feel free to use paprika for a subtler taste.
Cloves – Give a warm aromatic touch; use sparingly as they can easily overpower.
Salt – Essential for flavor; adjust to suit your taste!

For the Finish

Cilantro – Brightens every bowl with freshness; parsley is a fine substitute if you prefer.
Chicken Stock – The heart of the stew; vegetable broth makes a perfect vegetarian exchange.
Enchilada Sauce – Lends spice and color; you can substitute with homemade tomato sauce if desired.
Hominy – Adds a chewy texture and heartiness; canned corn can work, but it will change the flavor profile.

This dish is perfect for gatherings or when you’re in need of warming comfort. Gather your ingredients for Ken’s Kickin’ Posole, and let’s create some culinary magic!

How to Make Ken’s Kickin’ Posole

Preheat the oven’s broiler. Set the rack about 6 inches from the heat source and line a baking sheet with foil to catch any drips.
Broil the poblano chiles cut-side-down until their skin is blackened and blistered, roughly 5 minutes. Transfer them to a bowl, cover, and let steam for 20 minutes before peeling and dicing.
Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy, about 5 minutes. Drain excess fat, keeping 1 tablespoon of grease in the pot.
Increase the heat to medium-high, then add the pork cubes. Sear them until browned on all sides, roughly 5 minutes. Remove the pork and set aside.
Sauté the onions and garlic in the same pot over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes.
Stir in the diced roasted poblanos, jalapeños, oregano, cumin, chile powder, cloves, salt, and cilantro. Cook for 1 minute to combine the flavors.
Add the chicken stock and enchilada sauce to the pot, mixing in the cooked bacon and pork. Bring to a simmer.
Cover and let it simmer on medium-low for 1 hour. Afterward, stir in the hominy and continue cooking for another hour until the pork turns tender.

Optional: Garnish each bowl with fresh cilantro for an extra pop of flavor.

Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.

What to Serve with Ken’s Kickin’ Posole?

When you’re ready to create an unforgettable meal experience, the right sides can elevate your hearty stew to new heights!

Warm Corn Tortillas: Perfect for scooping and soaking up the flavorful broth, these soft tortillas complement the stew’s texture beautifully.
Cilantro Lime Rice: Light and zesty, this fresh rice dish balances the richness of the posole, making every bite a delight.
Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado tossed with lime and cilantro provides a refreshing contrast, enhancing the stew’s smoky flavor.
Spicy Black Beans: Adding a kick, these protein-packed beans harmonize well with the bold flavors of the posole and round out the meal.
Grilled Peppers: Lightly charred veggies deliver a sweet, smoky flavor that ties back into the stew, showcasing a lovely seasonal element.
Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips paired with a zesty salsa make for a fun starter that will have guests eager for the main event!

Indulge in these delightful pairings, and you’ll create memorable meals that bring family and friends together around the table.

Expert Tips for Ken’s Kickin’ Posole

Char Poblanos Well: Ensure the skin is blackened before peeling to maximize the flavorful depth in your stew.
Don’t Rush Simmering: Allow the stew to simmer longer for flavors to meld beautifully while tenderizing the pork.
Taste and Adjust: Always adjust salt levels based on the seasoning of the enchilada sauce and chicken stock used to avoid over-salting.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic instead of garlic powder for a more vibrant and aromatic taste.
Versatile Protein Options: Feel free to customize with chicken or beef if pork isn’t your preference, making it your own Ken’s Kickin’ Posole!

Make Ahead Options

Ken’s Kickin’ Posole is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can chop the vegetables and prepare the spices up to 24 hours in advance; simply refrigerate them in airtight containers to keep them fresh. The roasted poblano chiles can also be prepped and stored after peeling and dicing. When you’re ready to enjoy this hearty stew, just follow the cooking instructions, adding the prepped ingredients directly to the pot. Simmering will meld those vibrant flavors beautifully, and you’ll find your finished dish just as delicious and comforting as if you made it on the spot!

How to Store and Freeze Ken’s Kickin’ Posole

Fridge: Store your delicious Ken’s Kickin’ Posole in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Let it cool before sealing to keep the flavors fresh.

Freezer: This hearty stew can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion as it freezes.

Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of broth if it thickens too much.

Make-Ahead: Consider making this dish ahead of time; it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld beautifully!

Ken’s Kickin’ Posole Variations

Feel free to get creative and customize Ken’s Kickin’ Posole to match your taste and dietary needs!

Vegetarian: Substitute pork and bacon with tofu and vegetable broth for a hearty yet meat-free option.
Spicy Kick: Add diced habanero peppers or a splash of hot sauce to elevate the heat level and wake up your taste buds.
Sweet Twist: Incorporate diced sweet potatoes or butternut squash for added sweetness and a lovely texture contrast.
Beans Boost: Stir in black beans or pinto beans for extra protein and fiber, turning this into an even heartier feast.
Garnish Madness: Top with sliced avocado, radishes, or crumbled queso fresco for an extra burst of flavor and creaminess.
Herb Infusion: Swap cilantro for fresh basil or mint for a refreshing twist, providing a completely new herbaceous profile.
Tortilla Crisps: Serve with homemade tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch and a fun way to enjoy the stew.
Zesty Lime: Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving for a zesty brightness that enhances all the flavors beautifully.

Ken’s Kickin’ Posole Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the right poblano chiles?
Absolutely! Look for poblanos that are firm, smooth, and dark green. Avoid those with soft spots or wrinkled skin, as this can indicate overripeness. If you can find them, Anaheims are a great substitute with a similar smoky flavor.

Can I store Ken’s Kickin’ Posole in the fridge?
Very! After cooking, let the stew cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and it often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together beautifully!

How do I freeze Ken’s Kickin’ Posole?
Sure! To freeze, portion the cooled stew into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top to allow for expansion as it freezes. It can be kept for up to 3 months. Just remember to label the containers with the date for easy tracking!

What if my stew turns out too thick?
Don’t fret! If you find your Ken’s Kickin’ Posole too thick upon reheating, simply stir in a bit of broth or water until you reach your desired consistency. This will help rehydrate the stew without compromising flavor!

Is Ken’s Kickin’ Posole suitable for a gluten-free diet?
Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it does not contain any traditional thickeners or gluten-containing ingredients. Just be sure to check your broth and sauces to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.

Can I adjust the spice level in Ken’s Kickin’ Posole?
Yes, you can! If you’re looking for a milder stew, reduce the amount of jalapeño peppers and omit any additional spices if needed. Conversely, if you enjoy more heat, feel free to add extra jalapeños or even some diced habaneros for a real kick!