### Chicken Posole Verde Soup Recipe: A Flavorful Mexican Delight
Chicken posole verde is a traditional Mexican soup known for its vibrant green color from tomatillos and chilis. This hearty dish combines tender chicken with a blend of spices and vegetables, creating a delicious and healthy meal that's perfect for cold winter evenings.
#### Ingredients:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 8 oz fresh tomatillos, husks removed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup green chiles (Anaheim or poblano)
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups white corn hominy, drained
- 1 lime, juiced
- Optional: shredded cheese, chopped cilantro
#### Equipment:
- Large pot
- Cutting board
- Chef's knife
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
### Step-by-Step Guide:
#### Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
1. **Chop Tomatillos and Onion:** Rinse tomatillos under cold water, then remove any remaining husks and rinse again. Chop them into small pieces.
2. **Mince Garlic:** Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves.
#### Step 2: Cook Chicken
1. Place chicken breasts or thighs in a large pot.
2. Fill the pot with enough water to cover the chicken, then bring it to a boil.
3. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 15-20 minutes until fully cooked.
#### Step 3: Prepare Vegetables
1. In another pan, heat some oil over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onions and minced garlic; sauté for about 2-3 minutes until soft and fragrant.
3. Stir in tomatillos, green chiles, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes.
#### Step 4: Combine Ingredients
1. Pour the vegetable mixture into the pot with the chicken.
2. Add chicken broth and drained corn hominy.
3. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes until flavors are well combined.
#### Step 5: Serve
1. Remove the chicken from the soup; shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces.
2. Return the shredded chicken to the pot.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
4. Squeeze fresh lime juice over the soup just before serving.
5. Optional toppings include shredded cheese, chopped cilantro, or a sprinkle of crushed tortilla chips.
### Tips for Perfect Posole Verde:
- Use fresh ingredients whenever possible; they make all the difference in flavor!
- For a thicker broth, you can add more corn hominy.
- Adjust spices according to your taste preference. If you prefer it spicier, use more green chiles or add diced jalapeños.
### Conclusion
Chicken posole verde soup is a delightful dish that showcases the rich flavors of Mexican cuisine. Its vibrant green color and savory, slightly spicy broth make it a favorite during colder months. Enjoy this hearty recipe with family and friends, and explore other traditional Mexican dishes to expand your culinary horizons!
By following these steps, you can create a delicious and authentic posole verde soup that will satisfy your taste buds and keep you warm on chilly evenings.