History

The fascinating history of pozole

By Gretel Morales - 2023-08-24T13:56:43Z
Pozole is a Mexican broth that ignites passions and controversy, as there are many varieties, and everyone claims to have the best recipe. Additionally, this dish is enjoyed during the Patriotic Month, parties, Christmas, and even to cure a hangover after a good party. This dish is very ancient and has a fascinating history. The word pozole comes from the Nahuatl pozolli, which means foamy. Like many ancient delicacies, the traditional recipe changed radically with the arrival of the Spaniards.  Today we add pork meat, which arrived in our country with colonization, as well as other ingredients and products such as oregano, lettuce, and even cheese and cream that we put on the tostadas.  If you want to learn about the incredible history and the origin of pozole, do not miss the information we have for you. We also share our best-kept secrets for making the best pozole at home. You might be interested in: 8 tips for preparing a top-notch pozole What is the origin of pozole?The origin of pozole is very ancient, dating back to the pre-Hispanic era. In those years, this dish was prepared with human meat, specifically from a warrior. According to chronicles, the Aztec warrior had to capture another enemy warrior, who would then be sacrificed in honor of the gods, and with his remains, pozole was prepared. According to the National Autonomous University of Mexico, that dish was not seasoned with chili or salt, as only the human meat was served with cooked corn and broth. It is worth noting that it was the warrior's family who ate this pozole, since he could not consume this broth, as it was forbidden to eat the flesh of his victim.  The site Noticonquista explains that this dish was highly coveted and had great prestige, so merchants also wanted to enjoy it. Therefore, they sacrificed slaves and cooked the meat, adding salt, unlike the one consumed by the Mexica warriors.  For its part, the Secretariat of Agriculture and Rural Development mentions that pozole was also a broth enjoyed by Emperor Moctezuma as part of an offering to the god Xipe Tótec, the god of life and death, as well as agriculture.  Today, pozole is prepared very differently, and its consumption in September is associated with the cacahuacintle corn, which takes place in the same month that Mexicans celebrate Independence Day. Additionally, nowadays it is prepared with chicken or pork and seasoned with spices like pepper and oregano.  You can also read: 7 pozole recipes for the whole week How many types of pozole exist? Beyond the origin of pozole, what is important is that Mexicans have a rich and varied culinary culture. The perfect example of this is the fact that there are countless versions and recipes. However, these are the most famous: 1. White pozole This type of pozole is prepared with pork or chicken meat, pozole corn, and is seasoned with lime juice, chopped onion, lettuce, and oregano. It can be accompanied with tostadas. See how to prepare a white pozole here  2. Red pozole This other version is equally popular. A spicy red sauce is prepared and added to the broth, resulting in a broth full of flavor and color. It is also prepared with chicken or pork and the same seasonings as the white pozole.  Click to see the red pozole recipe 3. Green pozole This is a delight that comes from the state of Guerrero! The broth is prepared with green tomato, pumpkin seed, and epazote. It can be made with pork or chicken, and avocado and pork cracklings can also be added.  Discover the best green pozole recipe here Remember that there are many types of pozole, as there are also recipes with all kinds of seafood or even boiled egg, so if you have the chance to try them, don't miss out! Continue reading: Three types of pozole to celebrate Kiwilimon Tip Now that you know the origin of pozole, get to work and prepare this dish to celebrate with family. To make it better than ever, we share our chefs' tips: 1. Say no to precooked corn and use fresh corn.  2. Season the meat and corn. 3. Sauté the sauce. 4. Prepare it in advance. Now you know, at Kiwilimon we tell you everything you need to know about Mexican cuisine and also give you the best tips to become an expert.