Main dish

Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chorizo Posole

Indulge in the rich flavors of a Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chorizo Posole with this easy recipe. Perfect for a hearty and flavorful meal.

To recipe
Vegetarian Chorizo Posole
Recipe insights & TIPS

If I could take only one soup to a desert island with me, it wouldn't be chicken noodle, minestrone, or even clam chowder (and I LOVE clam chowder). It would be a big pot of posole! The spicy tomato-based Mexican soup would be perfect for dinner, with just me, the waves, and maybe a glass of rum. Let's get back to reality, though. While it may be tough to find a desert island, it's super easy to make your own posole.

This recipe is all about convenience and flavor. I just tossed all the ingredients into my slow cooker and left it on high heat for about four hours. In a pinch, you could definitely eat it earlier, but the longer you cook it, the better the flavor! I included all the classic posole ingredients like onions, paprika, garlic, and, of course, hominy. I also added half a bottle of Mexican dark beer for extra flavor. 

Usually, a traditional posole contains some kind of meat, like pork or beef, but in this plant-based version, I used Lightlife Chorizo Smart Sausages. That said, any plant-based sausage will do. Using plant-based chorizo means the recipe is low fat, zero cholesterol, and full of fiber. Plus, it’s packed with flavor with plant-based chorizo adding a smoky depth while the tomatoes and spices create a rich, slightly spicy base.  The best part? You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your family's taste buds. My kids love this soup, and I can add a little extra kick of hot sauce to my own plate.

Vegetarian Chorizo Posole

FAQs


What can I serve with vegetarian chorizo posole?

Serve this posole with warm tortillas (corn or flour) and top with fresh cilantro, diced avocado, lime wedges, and crumbled cheese (or a vegan cheese option to keep it plant-based). 

How do I store vegetarian chorizo posole?

Let the posole cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Can I freeze vegetarian chorizo posole?

Yes. Once the posole has cooled completely, portion it out into freezer-safe containers. Leave about an inch of headspace at the top to allow for expansion during freezing. The frozen posole will stay for up to 3 months.

Can I use a different type of plant-based chorizo? 

Absolutely! There are many delicious options out there. Just choose one that you like the flavor of and crumble it similarly to how you would traditional chorizo. Or if you can’t find a specific chorizo option, just slice up any plant-based sausage.

What if I don't have dark beer? 

No problem! You can use vegetable broth instead. 

How can I make this recipe even healthier? 

You can add in other vegetables like corn or chopped zucchini.

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Recipe

This slow cooker vegetarian posole is a hearty and flavorful soup made with plant-based chorizo, beans, hominy, and spices. It's easy to prepare, freezer-friendly, and packed with protein and fiber, making it a perfect weeknight meal for busy families.

Course:
Main dish
COOKing TIME:
240 minutes
Total TIME:
260 minutes
CUISINE:
Mexican
PREP TIME:
20 minutes
SERVINGS:
6

Ingredients

  • 1 pack of Lightlife Chorizo Smart Sausages (or similar) 
  • 1 white onion 
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • ¼ tsp salt
  • ¼ tsp black pepper
  • 5 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 cans diced tomatoes (15 oz each)
  • 1 can pinto beans (15 oz)
  • 1 can hominy (28oz) 
  • 1 cup Negra Modelo (or any dark beer)

Ingredient Swaps

  • Add some extra veggies like zucchini, corn, mushrooms, or any seasonal vegetables for extra fiber. 

Instructions

  1. Switch your slow cooker to high. 
  2. Dice the vegetarian sausages into small chunks and add to a large skillet.
  3. Chop the onion and mince the garlic. 
  4. Add the onion, garlic, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper to the sausages and stir well.
  5. Cook for about 5 minutes, and then transfer the mixture to the slow cooker.
  6. Add the veggie broth, tomatoes, beans, hominy, and beer.
  7. Stir well and cover with the lid.
  8. Cook on high for about four hours, stirring every hour.
  9. Serve with diced avocado, cilantro, and lemon wedges.
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