Mole Poblano – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
Mexico Region / Locale: Mexican Servings: Serves 6-8
Mexico Region / Locale: Mexican Servings: Serves 6-8Mole Poblano is a traditional Mexican dish with roots in pre-Hispanic times. This legendary sauce, known for its deep complexity and rich flavor, showcases the harmony of chocolate and multiple chilies, balanced with spices such as cinnamon and cloves. Often served with poultry, such as turkey or chicken, Mole Poblano has become a celebration staple. Its recipes are often passed down through generations, retaining cultural significance and captivating palates with its enticing taste.
Ingredients
- dried ancho chilies – 4 / 40 g
- dried pasilla chilies – 2 / 20 g
- dried guajillo chilies – 2 / 20 g
- chicken broth – 4 cups / 960 ml
- tomatoes, roughly chopped – 2 cups / 480 g
- onion, chopped – 1 large / 150 g
- garlic cloves, minced – 3 / 15 g
- almonds, toasted – 1/4 cup / 30 g
- raisins – 1/4 cup / 40 g
- dark chocolate, roughly chopped – 50 g
- ground cinnamon – 1 tsp / 2.6 g
- ground cloves – 1/2 tsp / 1.3 g
- sesame seeds, toasted – 2 tbsp / 16 g
- vegetable oil – 3 tbsp / 45 ml
- salt – to taste
Instructions
- Remove seeds and stems from chilies and toast them lightly in a skillet.
- Soak the toasted chilies in 2 cups hot chicken broth until softened.
- In a blender, combine soaked chilies and their soaking liquid, tomatoes, onion, garlic, almonds, raisins, and chocolate. Blend until smooth.
- Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat, add the blended mixture and cook for 15 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add remaining chicken broth, ground cinnamon, cloves, and sesame seeds. Bring to a simmer, cooking for an additional 30 minutes. Stir occasionally.
- Season with salt to taste, and serve over grilled or roasted chicken.
Substitutions
- dark chocolate -> Mexican chocolate
- almonds -> peanuts
- raisins -> currants
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Use homemade chicken broth for enhanced flavor.
- Add a touch of sugar for balancing acidity with sweetness.
- Include a splash of orange juice to brighten the sauce.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
