Prepare yourself for a culinary adventure unlike any other! This isn't your grandma's mole; this is a vibrant, herbaceous, and intensely flavorful green pork mole, bursting with the authentic tastes of Mexico. Forget the bland, pre-packaged versions; we're diving deep into a recipe rich in tradition, showcasing the complex interplay of fresh ingredients and time-honored techniques. The vibrant green hue alone hints at the exciting flavors awaiting you – a symphony of pepitas, tomatillos, cilantro, and chiles, all perfectly balanced to complement tender, slow-cooked pork. It's a dish that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Mexico.
This recipe is more than just a collection of ingredients; it's a journey. From meticulously roasting the chiles to patiently simmering the pork, each step contributes to the final masterpiece. Ready to embark on this culinary expedition and create a green pork mole that will impress even the most seasoned palates? Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Pressure cooker
- Pot
- Griddle
- Blender
- Saucepan
- Frying pan
- Mortar and pestle (optional)
Ingredients
- Pork backbones
- Water
- Onion: 1/4
- Garlic: 2 cloves
- Salt: 2 tablespoons (or to taste)
- Tomatillos (green tomatoes): 0.5 kg
- Green chilies: 3 pieces (or to taste)
- Green pepitas (pumpkin seeds): 250g
- Peanuts: 1/4 cup
- Spinach: 1 bunch
- Cilantro: 1 bunch
- Spring onions: some
- Oil
- Chicken broth (optional): 2 tablespoons
- Lemon: a few drops
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Pork and Base Ingredients
- In a pressure cooker, add water, 1/4 onion, 2 cloves garlic, pork backbones, and salt. Cook for 15 minutes after pressure is built.
- In a pot, boil 0.5 kg tomatillos and 3 green chilies.
- Toast 250g green pepitas on a griddle until fragrant. Toast 1/4 cup peanuts in the same pan.
- Grind the toasted pepitas and peanuts separately into a powder using a blender or mortar and pestle.
Step 2. Create the Green Mole Sauce
- Blend spinach, 3 cloves garlic, 1/4 large onion, spring onions, and cilantro with water.
- In a saucepan, combine the spinach mixture, the tomatillo/chili mixture, and a splash of water. Bring to a boil.
- In the same pan used for toasting, fry the ground pepitas and peanuts with oil until they change color.
- Add the fried pepita and peanut mixture to the saucepan with the spinach and tomatillo mixtures. Stir to combine. Add pork broth (optional).
- Simmer until thickened, adding more pork broth as needed. Add salt to taste.
Step 3. Combine and Simmer
- Add the cooked pork backbones to the mole and simmer for another 10 minutes.
Step 4. Serve
- Serve hot, garnished with lemon, onions, and warm tortillas. Rice can also be served as an accompaniment.
Read more: Authentic Charro Beans Recipe: South Texas Style
Tips
- If you don’t have a pressure cooker, cooking the pork in a normal pot will take approximately an hour.
- Adjust the amount of green chilies to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Don't overcook the fried pepitas and peanuts, as they can burn easily.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 600-700
- Fat: 40-50g
- Carbs: 30-40g
- Protein: 40-50g
FAQs
1. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! The mole can be made a day or two in advance, even better the flavors will meld. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving.
2. What type of pork should I use?
Shoulder or butt roast is ideal for slow cooking and yields the most tender and flavorful results. You can also use other cuts, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
3. Can I adjust the spice level?
Absolutely! Start with fewer chiles, taste, and add more to your preference. You can also remove some seeds for a milder flavor. For a smoky heat, consider adding chipotle peppers in adobo sauce.
This authentic green pork mole recipe is a testament to the vibrant flavors and rich traditions of Mexican cuisine. We hope you enjoyed the journey of creating this delicious dish as much as we enjoyed sharing it with you. Now, gather your family and friends and savor the incredible results of your culinary adventure!