A guide to saying it correctly

How to Pronounce Pozole

A hearty Mexican stew, pronounced po-SOH-lay, often featuring hominy and pork or chicken.

pozole

po-SOH-lay

/poʊˈsoʊleɪ/  ·  po · SO · le

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It's a popular dish discussed in food blogs and culinary articles about Mexican cuisine.

Where the word comes from

From Spanish pozole, from Classical Nahuatl pozolli, meaning 'hominy'.

Common ways people get it wrong

  • POH-zohl This sounds like 'pajamas' or 'chole'. Remember the 'z' is more like an 's' sound, and the 'ole' rhymes with 'play'.
  • po-ZOH-lee The final 'e' in pozole is pronounced like the 'ay' in 'play', not like the 'ee' in 'see'.

Frequently asked

What is pozole made of?

Pozole is a traditional Mexican stew made from hominy (dried maize kernels treated with alkali) and usually pork or chicken. It's often garnished with shredded lettuce or cabbage, radishes, onion, lime, and chili.

Is pozole spicy?

Pozole itself is not inherently spicy, but it is often served with spicy garnishes like chili peppers or hot sauce, allowing individuals to adjust the heat to their preference.

What's the difference between pozole rojo and pozole verde?

The main difference lies in the sauce: pozole rojo (red pozole) uses dried red chilies, while pozole verde (green pozole) uses fresh green ingredients like tomatillos and jalapeños.

How do you pronounce the Mexican soup posole?

Pozole is pronounced poh-ZOH-lay. The emphasis is on the second syllable, 'ZOH'.

How do Mexicans say pozole?

Mexicans say pozole by pronouncing it poh-ZOH-lay. It's a common and beloved dish throughout Mexico.

What does pozole mean in English?

Pozole is a traditional Mexican stew or soup. It is made from hominy, with meat, and can be seasoned and garnished in various ways.