Mexican Mole Sauce Recipe
Mexican mole sauce is one of those recipes that brings comfort and depth with every bite. It blends smoky dried chilies, warm spices, toasted seeds, and a touch of chocolate to create a sauce that is bold, rich, and full of character. Each spoonful feels like a piece of tradition, carrying the flavours of Mexican culture that have been cherished for centuries.
What makes mole truly special is how it can elevate even the simplest dishes. Pour it over roasted chicken, serve it with turkey, or enjoy it with a plate of enchiladas, and you instantly have a meal that tastes extraordinary. While the list of ingredients may seem long, preparing mole at home is a rewarding experience that fills your kitchen with incredible aromas and your table with unforgettable flavor.
Why You Need This Recipe
If you have ever wanted to experience authentic Mexican cooking at home, this mole sauce is the recipe to try. It delivers a balance of earthy, smoky, sweet, and slightly spicy flavours that no store bought sauce can match. Each ingredient has a purpose, and when combined, they create a depth of flavour that is both comforting and unforgettable.
This recipe is also incredibly versatile. You can pair it with chicken, beef, turkey, or even vegetables, making it a staple for family dinners and special occasions. Once you learn how to make mole from scratch, you will not only appreciate the tradition behind it but also have a go-to sauce that transforms everyday meals into something extraordinary.
Ingredients
Before we dive into the process, let’s take a look at the ingredients you’ll need. Each one adds a special touch that makes mole so rich and flavorful.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Calories (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| Dried ancho chilies | 3 | 60 |
| Dried pasilla chilies | 2 | 40 |
| Dried guajillo chilies | 2 | 30 |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp | 240 |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 medium | 45 |
| Garlic cloves | 3 | 15 |
| Roma tomato (chopped) | 1 large | 35 |
| Almonds (toasted) | ¼ cup | 200 |
| Sesame seeds (toasted) | 2 tbsp | 100 |
| Raisins | 2 tbsp | 80 |
| Corn tortilla (torn) | 1 small | 50 |
| Chicken broth | 2 cups | 30 |
| Mexican chocolate tablet | 1 small piece | 120 |
| Cinnamon stick | 1 small | 10 |
| Ground cumin | 1 tsp | 8 |
| Salt | To taste | 0 |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | 3 |
Estimated Calories for Sauce (per serving, 6 servings): ~170 calories
How to Prepare
To make authentic Mexican mole sauce, start by preparing the dried chillies. Remove the stems and seeds from ancho, pasilla, and guajillo chilies, then lightly toast them in a dry skillet until they release their aroma. Soak them in hot water for about 15 minutes to soften. In the same skillet, toast the almonds, sesame seeds, raisins, and a torn piece of tortilla until golden brown, which adds depth and richness to the sauce. Next, heat some olive oil in a pan and saute onions, garlic, and tomatoes until they soften, then season with cumin and cinnamon for warmth. Transfer the softened chillies, toasted ingredients, and sauteed vegetables into a blender, add a cup of chicken broth, and blend until smooth. Pour the mixture back into the pan, add the remaining broth, and let it simmer gently. Finally, stir in Mexican chocolate until it melts, then season with salt and pepper. Allow the sauce to simmer until it thickens to your liking, and your rich, flavourful mole sauce will be ready to enjoy.
Pro Tips
For the best flavour, always toast your chillies before soaking them, as this step enhances their smokiness and depth. When blending the sauce, make sure to puree it until completely smooth, since mole should have a silky texture without any gritty bits. If the sauce feels too thick, gradually add more broth until you reach your desired consistency. Use high quality Mexican chocolate, as it balances the heat of the chillies with a subtle sweetness that makes mole so special. Letting the sauce simmer longer will only deepen the flavours, so be patient and allow it to cook gently. Lastly, remember that mole tastes even better the next day, so making it ahead can really elevate your dish.
Perfect Pairings and Toppings
Mole sauce is wonderfully versatile and can be served in many delicious ways. It pairs beautifully with tender chicken, turkey, or pork, as the rich and complex flavours of the sauce soak into the meat. You can also drizzle it over roasted vegetables or use it as a unique topping for enchiladas, tacos, or tamales. A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds or crumbled queso fresco on top adds extra texture and flavour, while fresh cilantro or sliced avocado brings a refreshing balance. For a complete meal, serve mole with warm tortillas, fluffy rice, or refried beans to soak up every bit of the sauce.
Conclusion
Mexican mole sauce is more than just a recipe, it is a celebration of tradition, culture, and flavour. Its deep, complex taste transforms simple dishes into something extraordinary, making every meal feel special. Whether you serve it over chicken, drizzle it on enchiladas, or pair it with rice and tortillas, mole has the power to bring comfort and excitement to your table.
Once you try making this sauce at home, you’ll appreciate the balance of sweet, savoury, and smoky notes that make mole so unique. It may take a little time to prepare, but the rich flavours are absolutely worth it. Share it with family and friends, and let this timeless Mexican classic turn any meal into a memorable experience.
