Ultimate Pollo con Mole Recipe: A Rich and Flavorful Mexican Delight
Guide or Summary：Ingredients for Pollo con MoleStep-by-Step InstructionsWhy You’ll Love This Pollo con Mole RecipePollo con mole, which translates to "chick……
Guide or Summary：
Pollo con mole, which translates to "chicken with sauce," is a traditional Mexican dish that showcases the rich and complex flavors of mole sauce. This recipe combines tender chicken with a sauce made from a blend of chiles, spices, nuts, and chocolate, creating a dish that is both savory and slightly sweet. If you're looking to impress your family and friends with an authentic taste of Mexico, this ultimate pollo con mole recipe is the perfect choice.
Ingredients for Pollo con Mole
To prepare this delicious dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on for maximum flavor)
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 dried ancho chiles, seeds removed
- 2 dried guajillo chiles, seeds removed
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1/2 cup roasted almonds
- 1/4 cup raisins
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 ounce dark chocolate (70% cocoa)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Cooked rice or tortillas for serving
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Prepare the Chiles**: Begin by toasting the dried ancho and guajillo chiles in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 2-3 minutes until they become fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Once toasted, soak the chiles in hot water for about 15 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.
2. **Cook the Chicken**: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then add them to the pot, skin-side down. Sear the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken and set it aside.
3. **Make the Mole Sauce**: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the soaked chiles, chicken broth, almonds, raisins, tomato paste, cinnamon, cumin, and oregano. Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes.
4. **Blend the Sauce**: Carefully transfer the mixture to a blender and blend until smooth. Return the sauce to the pot and stir in the dark chocolate until melted and well combined.
5. **Combine Chicken and Sauce**: Add the seared chicken back to the pot, ensuring it is well coated with the mole sauce. Cover and simmer on low heat for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
6. **Serve**: Once the chicken is cooked, serve it hot, garnished with fresh cilantro. Pair it with cooked rice or warm tortillas to soak up the delicious mole sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Pollo con Mole Recipe
This pollo con mole recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of flavors is truly magical, with the earthy tones of the chiles, the nuttiness from the almonds, and the subtle sweetness from the chocolate creating a depth of flavor that is unmatched. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or enjoying a family meal, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Additionally, mole sauce can be made in larger batches and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, making it an excellent make-ahead option. The flavors only get better as they sit, so you can prepare it in advance and simply reheat it when you're ready to serve.
In conclusion, this ultimate pollo con mole recipe is a must-try for anyone looking to dive into the world of Mexican cuisine. With its rich flavors and comforting qualities, it’s a dish that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy this culinary journey and impress your loved ones with a homemade meal that celebrates the vibrant flavors of Mexico!