Learn How To Make Authentic Chicken Mole – A Classic Mexican Dish!

Embark on a culinary journey to master the art of authentic chicken mole, a vibrant and complex dish steeped in Mexican tradition. This rich and flavorful sauce, with its intricate blend of spices, chiles, and chocolate, is a true testament to the artistry of Mexican cuisine.

Ingredients for an Authentic Chicken Mole

• 1 whole chicken, cut into 8 pieces
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup tomato puree
• 1/4 cup pumpkin puree
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
• 1/4 cup peanuts
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup almonds
• 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 1/4 cup dried oregano
• 1/4 cup dried thyme

Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Season the Chicken: Season the chicken pieces generously with salt and pepper.
2. Brown the Chicken: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until golden brown on all sides.
3. Add Aromatics: Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
4. Deglaze the Skillet: Pour in the chicken broth and tomato puree. Bring to a simmer and scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.
5. Roast the Spices: In a separate skillet, toast the sesame seeds, peanuts, raisins, almonds, sunflower seeds, and chocolate chips until fragrant.
6. Grind the Spices: Grind the toasted spices, cumin, coriander, black pepper, cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice into a fine powder.
7. Add the Mole Paste: Stir the ground spices and oregano into the skillet with the chicken. Cook for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
8. Simmer the Mole: Reduce heat to low and add the pumpkin puree, thyme, and 1 cup of water. Simmer for at least 2 hours, or until the mole has thickened and the chicken is cooked through.
9. Taste and Adjust: Taste the mole and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or spices to your preference.

The Magic of the Mole

Authentic chicken mole is more than just a sauce; it’s a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate. The complex blend of spices, chiles, and chocolate creates a rich and earthy flavor with a hint of sweetness. The chicken, braised in the mole, becomes incredibly tender and absorbs the vibrant flavors of the sauce.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the authentic chicken mole with warm tortillas, rice, or beans. Garnish with fresh cilantro, chopped onions, and a dollop of sour cream to enhance the flavors.

Tips for Success

• Use fresh ingredients: The quality of your ingredients will greatly impact the flavor of the mole.
• Don’t rush the process: Simmering the mole for at least 2 hours allows the flavors to fully develop.
• Adjust the heat: The mole should have a slight kick, but not be overwhelming. Adjust the amount of chiles used to your desired spice level.
• Experiment with different spices: Feel free to add or omit spices to create your own unique mole blend.

The Legacy of Chicken Mole

Authentic chicken mole is a culinary treasure that has been passed down through generations. It’s a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Mexico and a dish that continues to delight food lovers around the world.

Beyond the Recipe: The Cultural Significance of Mole

Mole is not just a dish; it’s a symbol of Mexican culture. It’s often served at special occasions and celebrations, representing the country’s rich history and traditions. The complex and intricate nature of mole reflects the diversity and vibrancy of Mexican cuisine.

FAQs

1. What is the best way to store mole?
Mole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

2. Can I use ground spices instead of whole spices?
Yes, you can use ground spices, but the flavor will be less intense.

3. What is a good substitute for chocolate chips?
You can use unsweetened cocoa powder or melted chocolate in place of chocolate chips.

4. Can I make mole without chicken?
Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of mole by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead.

5. How can I thicken the mole?
If the mole is too thin, you can add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) to thicken it.