Chicken Mole
30M
2H
- Makes 6
- 1 whole chicken, cut into pieces
- 4 dried ancho chiles
- 2 dried pasilla chiles
- 1/2 cup almonds
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds
- 2 tablespoons raisins
- 1 corn tortilla, torn into pieces
- 1/4 cup lard or vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground anise
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 ounce Mexican chocolate, chopped
- Salt to taste
- Toast the ancho and pasilla chiles in a dry skillet over medium heat until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Remove the stems and seeds, then soak in hot water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In the same skillet, toast the almonds, sesame seeds, and raisins until lightly browned. Remove and set aside.
- Toast the torn tortilla pieces until crispy. Set aside.
- In a large pot, heat the lard or oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, anise, coriander, thyme, marjoram, and oregano. Cook for another 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- Add the tomatoes and cook until they break down, about 10 minutes.
- Transfer the mixture to a blender. Add the soaked chiles, almonds, sesame seeds, raisins, and tortilla pieces. Blend until smooth, adding some chicken broth if needed to facilitate blending.
- Return the blended mixture to the pot. Add the remaining chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Cook for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the Mexican chocolate and stir until melted. Season with salt to taste.
- Add the chicken pieces to the mole sauce. Simmer until the chicken is cooked through and tender, about 45 minutes.
- Serve the chicken mole hot, garnished with sesame seeds if desired.
Chicken Mole: A Deep Dive into a Mexican Culinary Treasure
History
Chicken Mole, a dish that epitomizes the rich tapestry of Mexican cuisine, has a storied past that traces back to the colonial period. The origins of mole, the sauce that defines this dish, are often linked to the Convent of Santa Rosa in Puebla, where it is said to have been created in the 16th century. Legend has it that the nuns of the convent, in a rush to prepare a meal for an unexpected visit from the Archbishop, combined a variety of ingredients they had on hand, resulting in the first mole sauce. Over time, Chicken Mole has evolved, with each region and family adding their unique twist, yet it remains a testament to Mexico’s culinary ingenuity and historical depth.
Taste Profile
The taste profile of Chicken Mole is as complex and layered as its history. At its core, the dish features tender chicken enveloped in a rich mole sauce, which is renowned for its depth of flavor. The sauce is a harmonious blend of sweet, savory, and spicy elements, derived from an array of ingredients such as chocolate, chili peppers, nuts, seeds, and spices. The chocolate adds a subtle sweetness and richness, while the chili peppers contribute a gentle heat that lingers on the palate. The nuts and seeds lend a creamy texture and nutty undertones, making each bite a delightful exploration of flavors. This intricate balance of tastes makes Chicken Mole a standout dish in Mexican cuisine.
Cultural Significance
Within Mexican cuisine, Chicken Mole holds a place of honor and is often reserved for special occasions and celebrations. It is a dish that embodies the spirit of Mexican hospitality and the country’s rich culinary heritage. Mole is not just a sauce; it is a symbol of cultural pride and tradition, often prepared with great care and passed down through generations. In many Mexican households, the preparation of Chicken Mole is a communal affair, bringing families and friends together to share in the joy of cooking and eating. This dish is also a staple during national holidays like Dia de los Muertos and Independence Day, underscoring its deep-rooted significance in Mexican culture. By savoring Chicken Mole, one not only enjoys a delicious meal but also partakes in a cherished cultural ritual.
