Vegetarian ‘Chicken’ Verde with Posole: A Plant-Based Take on a Classic Mexican Stew
Savor the vibrant flavors of a classic Mexican stew with this plant-based posole verde—perfect for vegetarians and anyone seeking a hearty, nutritious meal.
Looking for a bold, comforting, and nutritious dinner that delivers authentic Mexican flavors without the meat? This Vegetarian ‘Chicken’ Verde with Posole brings together vibrant tomatillo broth, hearty hominy, a medley of aromatic vegetables, and tender, protein-rich plant-based ‘chicken.’ An ode to the classic posole verde, this recipe offers a modern, plant-forward twist perfect for family meals, festive gatherings, or whenever you crave a warm, soulful bowl of stew.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 100% Plant-Based: Satisfies vegetarians, vegans, and meat-eaters alike with realistic plant-based chicken pieces.
- Bold Verde Flavors: Features an aromatic, tangy green broth made from tomatillos, green chiles, and fresh cilantro.
- Hearty and Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals from vegetables and hominy.
- Customizable Toppings: Let everyone garnish their bowl for a bespoke, interactive meal experience.
What Is Posole Verde?
Posole (or pozole) is a time-honored Mexican stew, traditionally celebrated for its base of chewy hominy—a type of maize that’s been nixtamalized, giving it a satisfying texture and nutty, earthy flavor. While classic posole often centers around pork or chicken, posole verde distinguishes itself with a green broth, rich with tomatillos, chiles, and herbs, creating a zesty and fragrant backdrop for any protein source. This plant-based adaptation keeps all the signature notes while championing a meatless approach that never compromises on authenticity or flavor.
Essential Ingredients
- Tomatillos: The backbone of any verde broth, tomatillos provide a bright, mildly acidic flavor and natural thickness.
- Green Chiles: Use a combination of poblano and jalapeño peppers for depth and mild heat. Adjust according to your spice preference.
- Hominy: Large, chewy white corn kernels that absorb the flavors of the broth while delivering traditional posole texture.
- Onion & Garlic: Foundations of the savory base, infusing every bite with aromatic depth.
- Cilantro: Both stems and leaves are used for maximum herbal brightness in the broth and as garnish.
- Plant-Based ‘Chicken’ Pieces: Daring Plant Chicken Pieces (or similar brands) give this dish substance and protein, soaking up the verde flavors while delivering a believable bite.
- Vegetable Broth: Keeps the dish vegetarian while providing a rich, umami background.
- Lime Juice: Added at the end for tang and freshness.
Optional Garnishes
- Thinly sliced radishes
- Shredded cabbage or lettuce
- Chopped avocado
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Sliced jalapeños or other hot peppers
- Lime wedges
- Tortilla chips or strips
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
1. Prepare the Verde Broth
Start by roasting or sautéing the main vegetables—tomatillos, onions, poblano, and jalapeño peppers—until they develop a bit of color and soften. This step deepens their flavors and lays the groundwork for a lush, complex broth.
- Tip: Roasting the vegetables under a broiler or in a hot pan brings out natural sweetness and caramelization.
Once roasted, blend vegetables with fresh cilantro and a ladle of vegetable broth until smooth. Strain for a more refined soup or leave as-is for a more rustic, chunky texture.
2. Simmer the Soup Base
Pour the blended verde mixture into a large soup pot. Add additional vegetable broth and bring to a simmer. Introduce hominy (drained and rinsed) and let everything bubble gently to meld the flavors and allow the hominy to soak up the bright, herby notes.
If desired, stir in pinto or cannellini beans for even more protein and heartiness, as recommended in other vegan posole recipes for enhanced nutrition.
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3. Add Plant-Based ‘Chicken’
While the broth simmers, sear the plant-based chicken pieces in a hot skillet until golden brown, as this enhances their texture and flavor. Add them to the pot during the last few minutes of cooking so they remain succulent and tender. Finish with a generous squeeze of lime juice and extra chopped cilantro.
- Tip: If you don’t have plant-based ‘chicken,’ substitute firm tofu, tempeh strips, jackfruit, or simply boost with more beans.
Serving Suggestions: Finish with Festive Toppings
A posole feast is as much about the steaming bowl as it is about the colorful, crunchy, and zesty toppings. Set out bowls of sliced radishes, avocado, cabbage, and jalapeños so everyone can personalize their dish. Tortilla chips on the side add a satisfying crunch and round out the meal.
Suggested Serving Table
| Component | Suggestions |
|---|---|
| Main Soup | Verde broth, hominy, plant-based ‘chicken’ |
| Crunch | Shredded cabbage, tortilla chips |
| Freshness | Radishes, herbs, lime wedges |
| Richness | Avocado, pumpkin seeds |
| Spice | Fresh or pickled jalapeños |
How to Adapt and Customize
- Spice Level: Leave in chile seeds for more heat or substitute with milder peppers as needed.
- Beans: Swap plant-based ‘chicken’ for your favorite cooked beans (pinto, cannellini, or black) to suit your tastes.
- Vegetables: Add diced zucchini, sweet corn, carrots, or potatoes during the simmer for a more vegetable-forward dish.
- Broth: Make the base as soupy or stewy as you prefer—add extra stock or reduce for a heartier consistency.
- Traditional Touch: Sprinkle with crumbled cotija or vegan cheese, or add a spoonful of vegan sour cream.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in a covered container for up to 5 days. Flavors deepen overnight!
- Freezer: Let soup cool completely before freezing in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Leave space for expansion.
- Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even temperature.
Nutrition Highlights
- Plant-Based Protein: Utilizing plant ‘chicken’ or beans boosts the protein content.
- High Fiber: Hominy and vegetables contribute to digestive health and satiety.
- Low in Saturated Fat: No animal fats make this lighter on cholesterol.
- Rich in Phytochemicals: Greens, herbs, and spices offer antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits.
Common Questions about Vegetarian Posole Verde
Q: Can I use canned tomatillos or salsa verde as a shortcut?
A: Yes. If fresh tomatillos are unavailable, use canned tomatillos or a good-quality salsa verde to mimic the same tangy base. Adjust salt and heat to taste.
Q: What are the best plant-based ‘chicken’ brands to use?
A: Daring Plant Chicken, Beyond Chicken, and Gardein all work well in this recipe. Choose unbreaded pieces for best texture and flavor.
Q: Is posole gluten-free?
A: Yes. Naturally, posole made with hominy, vegetables, and plant-based proteins (without wheat fillers) is gluten-free. Always double-check packaging if using prepared ‘chicken.’
Q: Can I make this ahead for meal prep?
A: Absolutely. Flavor improves after a day in the fridge, and the soup freezes and reheats beautifully for make-ahead meals.
Q: Can I make this recipe oil-free?
A: Yes. Sauté vegetables with a splash of broth instead of oil. Use nonstick pans when browning plant-based ‘chicken.’
Tips for Flavorful Success
- Roast or sauté your tomatillos and peppers for a more intense, layered flavor.
- Finish the soup with a squeeze of fresh lime to brighten and balance the flavors.
- Let everyone build their own bowl with toppings to suit their personal tastes.
- Don’t rush the simmer—the extra time melds and deepens flavors.
Recipe Summary Table
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Prep | Roast tomatillos, chiles, onions; gather ingredients |
| Blend | Puree roasted vegetables with cilantro and broth |
| Simmer | Combine broth, hominy, and beans; cook to meld flavors |
| Add Protein | Incorporate plant-based chicken or bean alternative |
| Garnish & Serve | Ladle into bowls, top with desired garnishes, and serve hot |
Conclusion: A Modern Bowl Rooted in Tradition
This Vegetarian ‘Chicken’ Verde with Posole honors Mexican culinary traditions by celebrating bold flavors, vibrant colors, and nourishing ingredients—without relying on animal products. Whether you’re sharing with family, serving guests, or meal-prepping for the week, this dish brings warmth and joy to any table. Explore creative garnishes and savor every comforting spoonful!
Ready to make it? Grab your ingredients and start stirring up this new classic tonight.
References
- https://pamelasalzman.com/chicken-posole-verde-recipe/
- https://www.isabeleats.com/chicken-pozole-verde/
- https://simple-veganista.com/posole-verde/
- https://tastesbetterfromscratch.com/pozole-verde/
- https://www.prevention.com/food-nutrition/recipes/a41848126/vegetarian-chicken-verde-with-posole-recipe/
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0TdhT4d4aDU
- https://pickyeaterblog.com/vegan-pozole-verde/
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