Mole Poblano

Mole poblano is a traditional Mexican dish that combines a rich blend of chili peppers, spices, nuts, seeds, and chocolate to create a thick, flavorful sauce typically served over poultry, most often turkey or chicken. Known as one of Mexico’s most iconic dishes, it balances sweet, savory, and mildly spicy notes for a unique and complex taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Mole poblano offers a depth of flavor that few sauces can match. It brings together diverse ingredients in a harmonious way, making it a memorable centerpiece for any meal. The recipe’s complexity makes it ideal for special occasions or celebrations, while its deep, aromatic taste can transform even the simplest poultry into an extraordinary dish.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Dried ancho chilies

• Dried mulato chilies

• Dried pasilla chilies

• Vegetable oil or lard

• Onion

• Garlic cloves

• Roma tomatoes

• Almonds

• Raisins

• Sesame seeds

• Corn tortillas

• Bolillo bread or similar white bread

• Cinnamon stick

• Cloves

• Black peppercorns

• Anise seeds

• Unsweetened cocoa powder or Mexican chocolate

• Chicken broth

• Salt

directions

1. Remove seeds and stems from the dried chilies. Toast them lightly in a dry skillet until fragrant, then soak in hot water until softened.

2. In a large skillet with oil or lard, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add tomatoes and cook until tender.

3. Separately, toast almonds, raisins, sesame seeds, tortilla pieces, and bread until golden.

4. Grind the spices — cinnamon, cloves, black peppercorns, and anise — using a spice grinder or mortar and pestle.

5. Combine softened chilies, sautéed vegetables, toasted nuts, seeds, bread, and spices in a blender. Add some chicken broth and blend until smooth.

6. Transfer the sauce to a large pot. Stir in cocoa powder or Mexican chocolate and more chicken broth to reach desired consistency.

7. Simmer over low heat for about 45 minutes, stirring often to prevent sticking, until the sauce thickens and flavors meld.

8. Season with salt to taste. Serve over cooked chicken or turkey.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves approximately 6 to 8 people.
Preparation time: about 45 minutes
Cooking time: about 1 hour 15 minutes
Total time: about 2 hours

Variations

• For a slightly sweeter profile, use more raisins or add a touch of brown sugar.

• For a spicier mole, increase the number of pasilla chilies or add chipotle peppers.

• Substitute turkey for chicken to achieve a more traditional Puebla-style mole.

• Use different nuts such as peanuts or pecans for a unique twist on the flavor profile.

storage/reheating

Store leftover mole poblano in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze it for up to 3 months. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

FAQs

What is mole poblano traditionally served with?

It is most often served with turkey or chicken, accompanied by rice and warm tortillas.

Does mole poblano always contain chocolate?

Yes, traditional mole poblano uses either Mexican chocolate or unsweetened cocoa powder to balance the flavors.

Can I make mole poblano in advance?

Yes, it often tastes better the next day as the flavors develop further.

Is mole poblano spicy?

It has a mild to moderate heat level, depending on the type and quantity of chilies used.

Can I make mole poblano vegetarian?

Yes, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and serve it over roasted vegetables or tofu.

How thick should mole poblano be?

It should have a smooth, thick, but pourable consistency, similar to heavy cream.

What type of bread is best for mole poblano?

Bolillo bread is traditional, but any crusty white bread will work.

Why are so many ingredients needed?

The complexity of mole poblano comes from layering multiple flavors, each contributing to the overall balance of the dish.

Can I reduce the number of ingredients?

You can simplify it, but it will lose some of its depth and authenticity.

Is mole poblano the same as other moles?

No, mole poblano is a specific variety, distinguished by its particular blend of chilies and inclusion of chocolate.

Conclusion

Mole poblano is a culinary treasure of Mexico, celebrated for its complex, layered flavors and cultural significance. Though the recipe may appear intricate, the results are undeniably rewarding, making it a worthy centerpiece for festive gatherings or special family meals. By blending chilies, spices, seeds, and chocolate, this dish delivers a unique and unforgettable taste experience

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