Mole sauce, the crown jewel of Mexican cuisine, is a sublime blend of rich flavors and profound culinary history. With roots in the pre-Hispanic era, mole has evolved into a festive dish, typically reserved for special occasions. A true mole contains an array of spices, chilies, and often chocolate, creating a unique balance of sweet, spicy, and savory elements. This complex sauce is typically simmered for several hours, allowing the deep, multifaceted flavors to meld together beautifully.
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Ingredients:
- Various dried chilies (ancho, pasilla, mulato)
- Tomato and tomatillo
- Onion, garlic
- Almonds, peanuts, sesame seeds
- Raisins, plantain
- Spices (cinnamon, clove, anise, black pepper)
- Dark chocolate
- Chicken broth
Instructions:
- Roast, hydrate, and blend chilies.
- Fry fruits, nuts, and spices; blend with chili mix.
- Combine all in a pot; simmer.
- Add chocolate; season to finish.
Mole’s history stretches back to the Aztecs and Spanish conquest, with each region in Mexico boasting its unique version.