In Denver, the holiday season is bringing back cherished traditions and flavors for the local Mexican American community, particularly through the beloved dish known as pozole. Chef Jose Avila Vilchez, who heads La Diabla Pozole y Mezcal in the Ballpark District, recalls his childhood in Mexico City, where pozole was a regular family treat, especially during holidays.
Upon moving to Denver over a decade ago, Chef Vilchez noticed a lack of authentic pozole establishments reminiscent of his hometown. This realization inspired him to create La Diabla, where he not only serves traditional red pozole but also offers innovative variations, including green, white, and a distinctive black pozole he developed, drawing inspiration from Yucatan mole recipes.
Pozole boasts a deep cultural and historical significance, tracing back to the Aztecs, who originally prepared it using sacred corn and meat from sacrificial practices. Following colonization, the dish evolved, replacing human flesh with pork and chicken. The term “*pozolli*” originates from the Nahuatl word for foam, relating to the cooking process.
Chef Vilchez emphasizes the importance of preserving this ancient dish, using the traditional nixtamalization process to enhance corn quality and flavor. He skillfully combines the broth with fresh vegetables and meats, offering a richly authentic dining experience.
For many in the community, such as Cristóbal Garcia—whose family celebrates over a century of roots in Colorado—pozole serves as a heartwarming symbol of family unity and cultural identity, especially around Christmas. Garcia fondly recalls his family’s traditions, highlighting the different recipes that reflect their diverse heritage.
Despite running a successful restaurant awarded by prestigious accolades like the James Beard award, Chef Vilchez finds solace and fulfillment in the personal connections he forms with customers through his food, something he considers truly special.
As the holiday season approaches, Coloradans are not only enjoying a delicious meal but also embracing their heritage and community bonds around the kitchen table. This festive spirit reflects a broader narrative of appreciation for deep-rooted traditions, unity, and the joy of shared experiences with family and friends.
In summary, pozole is more than just a festive dish; it’s a vessel for connection and cultural storytelling, allowing communities to bridge the past and present. As Coloradans gather around steaming bowls of pozole, they celebrate not only the flavors of their ancestors but also the ties that bind them together.