What Is Mole Sauce?
Mole Sauce is a rich, complex, and tasty Mexican sauce that combines savory, sweet, and spicy elements. Known for its deep, chocolatey undertones and vibrant spices, mole is a versatile condiment used to elevate meats, vegetables, and rice dishes. It’s most famously served with chicken or turkey, often in celebratory meals.
A Brief History of Mole Sauce
The origins of Mole Sauce trace back to pre-Hispanic Mexico, where indigenous peoples created sauces from local ingredients like chili peppers and chocolate. The term “mole” comes from the Nahuatl word mōlli, meaning “sauce” or “mixture.” Over time, Spanish influences added spices and nuts, creating the intricate recipes we know today. Mole has regional variations, with the most famous being Mole Poblano from Puebla and Mole Negro from Oaxaca.
Key Ingredients in Mole Sauce
To create an authentic Mole Sauce, you’ll need:
- Dried Chilis: Such as ancho, guajillo, or pasilla for smokiness and spice.
- Chocolate: Unsweetened or dark chocolate for depth and richness.
- Tomatoes: Adds acidity and balance.
- Onions and Garlic: Enhance the savory base.
- Nuts and Seeds: Like almonds, peanuts, or sesame seeds for tender and nuttiness.
- Spices: Cinnamon, cumin, and cloves for warmth.
- Sweeteners: Sugar or honey to balance the bitterness of the chocolate and spices.
- Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth to create the sauce’s silky consistency.
How to Prepare Mole Sauce at Home
Ingredients:
- 3 dried ancho chilis
- 3 dried guajillo chilis
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
- 1/4 cup almonds or peanuts
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 2 tablespoons raisins
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 2 ounces dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher)
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon sugar (optional)
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Toast and Soak Chilis: Toast the dried chilis in a dry skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Remove seeds and soak the chilis in warm water for 15 minutes to soften.
- Toast Nuts and Seeds: In the same frypan, toast the sesame seeds and almonds/peanuts until golden. Set aside.
- Cook Vegetables: Heat oil in a pan and sauté the onions and garlic until soft. Add the tomatoes and cook until a little caramelized.
- Blend Ingredients: In a blender, combine softened chilis, toasted nuts and seeds, cooked vegetables, raisins, cinnamon, cumin, cloves, and broth. Blend until smooth.
- Simmer the Sauce: Pour the blended mixture into a large pan. Add the chocolate and cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until the chocolate melts and the sauce thickens (about 15-20 minutes). Adjust seasoning with sugar and salt as required.
- Serve and Store: Serve warm over chicken, turkey, or vegetables. Keep it in an airtight bottle to store in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Tips for Perfect Mole Sauce
- Customize the Heat: Adjust the number of chilis based on your spice tolerance.
- Use Quality Chocolate: High-quality dark chocolate makes a big difference in flavor.
- Take Your Time: Mole is a labor of love—allow the flavors to develop by simmering slowly.
- Make Ahead: Mole tastes even better the next day after the flavors meld together.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approx. 1/4 Cup)
- Calories: 120
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Protein: 3g
- Sodium: 150mg
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Mole Sauce
Q: Can I make Mole Sauce vegetarian?
A: Yes! Simply use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
Q: How long does homemade Mole Sauce last?
A: Store it in the refrigerator for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Q: Is Mole Sauce spicy?
A: It can be! The heat level depends on the type and amount of chilis used, so adjust to your taste.
Conclusion
Mole Sauce is a masterpiece of Mexican cuisine, offering layers of bold, complex flavors that enhance any dish it touches. Whether served at festive occasions or for everyday meals, this versatile sauce is sure to impress. Try the recipe above to bring a taste of tradition and creativity to your kitchen!
Leave a reply