Mole will test your love for cooking. This is no easy meal – nor should it be – but it sure is fun. If you have a free Sunday (or you’re playing hooky on a weekday), dive in and enjoy a labor of love.
Mole, is literally translated to mean “sauce”. It is emblematic of Mexican cuisine. There’s no specific way to cook it. Some variations contain upwards of 50 ingredients. Mole sauce is made using a wide range of ingredients, which can vary depending on the specific type. Common components of mole sauce include chili peppers (such as ancho, pasilla, or mulato), tomatoes, onions, garlic, spices (such as cinnamon, cloves, and cumin), nuts or seeds (such as almonds, peanuts, or sesame seeds), chocolate or cocoa, and various herbs and seasonings. The combination of these ingredients creates a complex and harmonious blend of flavors.
The preparation of mole sauce is a labor-intensive process that involves multiple steps. The ingredients are typically toasted, roasted, or fried to develop their flavors before being ground or pureed into a paste. The paste is then cooked slowly with broth or other liquid until the flavors meld together and the sauce thickens to a desired consistency. Mole sauce often requires several hours of cooking time to achieve its full depth of flavor.
Mole sauce is renowned for its rich and multi-layered flavor profile. It combines elements of sweetness, bitterness, spiciness, and earthiness. The sauce can be savory, slightly sweet, and often has a hint of smokiness. The combination of chili peppers, spices, and chocolate creates a unique balance of flavors that is both complex and satisfying.
Mole sauce is incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes. It is commonly served over poultry, such as chicken or turkey, and is a key component of the popular dish “mole poblano.” Mole sauce can also be used as a sauce for enchiladas, tacos, or tamales, or as a marinade for meats and vegetables. Its rich and intense flavor makes it a centerpiece of Mexican cuisine.
Mole sauce holds significant cultural importance in Mexican cuisine and is often associated with special occasions and celebrations. It is considered a labor of love and is sometimes prepared for festive events or family gatherings. Mole has become emblematic of Mexican gastronomy and is recognized worldwide as a complex and iconic sauce.
This Pork Mole Taco recipe is perfect with my Chayote Slaw recipe.