Enchanting Mole Poblano: A Symphony of Chocolate and Chili in Every Bite

The Soul of Mole Poblano: Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs
• 4 bone-in, skinless chicken drumsticks
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

For the Mole Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup dried mulato chilies, stems and seeds removed
• 1 cup dried pasilla chilies, stems and seeds removed
• 1/2 cup dried ancho chilies, stems and seeds removed
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1/2 cup almonds
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 2 tablespoons cocoa powder
• 2 tablespoons Mexican chocolate, chopped (or bittersweet chocolate if unavailable)
• 1/4 cup tomato paste
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 tablespoon sugar (adjust to taste)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
• Salt to taste

Preparing the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with salt and pepper. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken pieces and sear them on all sides until they are golden brown. This should take about 5-7 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. This step adds a layer of depth to the final dish, ensuring that the chicken is both flavorful and tender.

Crafting the Mole Sauce

Toasting the Chilies

In the same skillet, toast the chilies over medium heat. You’ll need to do this in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Toast each variety for about 1-2 minutes, turning frequently, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them as this can result in bitterness. Once toasted, place the chilies in a bowl and cover them with hot water. Let them soak for about 20 minutes, or until they become soft.

Making the Sauce

In a separate pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Drain the chilies and blend them with 2 cups of chicken broth until smooth.

Add the blended chilies to the onion and garlic mixture, stirring well. Next, add the almonds, sesame seeds, raisins, cocoa powder, Mexican chocolate, and tomato paste. Stir everything together and cook for about 5 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and creates a rich, aromatic base.

Add the cumin, cinnamon, cloves, oregano, and sugar. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with salt and additional sugar if needed. If the sauce seems too thin, you can thicken it by mixing the flour with a little water to make a slurry and stirring it into the sauce. Cook for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the flour to cook out and the sauce to thicken.

Bringing It All Together

Add the seared chicken pieces back into the pot with the mole sauce. Make sure each piece is well coated with the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour. The chicken should be tender and the sauce thick and flavorful. If you prefer a more intense flavor, you can simmer the mole for an additional 15-20 minutes.

Serving Your Mole Poblano

Chicken Mole Poblano is traditionally served with warm tortillas or over a bed of fluffy rice. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime if desired. The rich, chocolatey sauce with its subtle heat pairs beautifully with the tender chicken and makes for a truly satisfying meal.

This dish is perfect for special occasions or a comforting weeknight dinner. The layers of flavors—chocolate, chilies, spices, and a hint of sweetness—combine to create a complex and delightful sauce that will transport your taste buds to the heart of Mexico.

Creating Chicken Mole Poblano is a labor of love, but the rich, nuanced flavors are well worth the effort. The combination of chocolate and chili might seem unusual, but it’s a hallmark of this classic Mexican dish that has stood the test of time. Serve it up with your favorite sides and watch as your family and friends marvel at this spectacular dish.

Enjoy the process and savor every bite!

Disclaimer: The recipes shared on this blog are intended for informational and entertainment purposes only. We do our best to ensure accuracy, but ingredient and preparation variations can alter results. Please use caution and consult a medical professional if you have dietary restrictions or health concerns. The blog and its authors are not liable for any adverse effects or consequences resulting from the use of the recipes provided. Always prioritize your health and safety when cooking.