Prepare for a culinary journey to the vibrant state of Guerrero, Mexico, where we uncover the secrets of its intensely flavorful red mole. This isn't your average mole; Guerrero's version boasts a unique depth and complexity, achieved through a masterful blend of chiles, spices, and rich, earthy ingredients. The resulting sauce, a deep crimson jewel, clings luxuriously to tender chicken, creating a dish that's both comforting and utterly unforgettable. Its distinctive taste profile, a harmonious balance of sweet, smoky, and subtly spicy notes, is a testament to generations of culinary tradition.
This recipe unlocks the artistry of Guerrero-style red mole, guiding you through each step of creating this authentic masterpiece. We’ll explore the meticulous preparation of the spice blend, the careful roasting of the chiles, and the slow simmering that develops the sauce's profound flavor. Ready to embark on this flavorful adventure? Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step process.
Tools Needed
- Large pot
- Blender
- Frying pan
- Saucepan
Ingredients
- Ancho chiles: 7
- Black chiles: 4
- Vajillo chiles: 20
- Pua chiles: 17
- Pumpkin seeds: 3 tablespoons
- Ajonjoli (sesame seeds): 1 tablespoon
- Garlic cloves: 11
- Onion: 1/2
- Bolillo (bread roll): 1 small
- Tortilla: 1
- Black pepper: 1 teaspoon
- Raisins: 2 tablespoons
- Peanuts: 3 tablespoons
- Almonds: 3 tablespoons
- Abuelita chocolate: 1/2 bar
- Banana (plantain preferred, but regular banana works): 1/2
- Chicken: 1 whole
- Celery stick: 1
- Cilantro: 1 bunch
- Water: Plenty
- Cinnamon stick: 1 (fairly thick)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Broth and Chicken
- Rinse the chicken well and cut into pieces. In a large pot, combine chicken with water, celery, cilantro, half a head of garlic, and a quarter onion. Bring to a boil, remove foam, then simmer on medium heat for 40 minutes.
- Remove the chicken and vegetables from the broth. Set aside the cooked chicken.
Step 2. Fry and Prepare the Mole Ingredients
- Heat oil in a frying pan. Fry the bolillo until golden brown, then cut into pieces.
- Fry almonds, peanuts, and cinnamon stick in the same pan until golden. Remove and set aside.
- Fry the chiles (ancho, black, and pua - remove seeds), garlic, raisins, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds and banana (or plantain) in batches until slightly softened.
- In a separate pot, boil all the fried chiles in water for about 10 minutes until softened. Let them cool down.
Step 3. Blend and Cook the Mole Sauce
- Blend the softened chiles, fried bread, nuts, seeds, spices, and a little of the chile-boiling water until smooth.
- Heat oil in a saucepan. Add the blended mole sauce and cook, stirring frequently to prevent burning. It's crucial to cook the sauce well. Add avocado or other preferred oil as needed.
- Once the mole sauce is simmering, add the Abuelita chocolate. Stir until melted and fully incorporated. Season with salt to taste.
Step 4. Combine and Serve
- Add a portion of the chicken broth to adjust the consistency of the mole. Add the chicken pieces and continue simmering until thickened and heated through.
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Guerrero-style red mole with chicken!
Read more: Authentic Charro Beans Recipe: South Texas Style
Tips
- Use a thick cinnamon stick for a richer flavor.
- Ensure the oil is very hot before adding the mole sauce to prevent sticking.
- Stir the mole sauce constantly while cooking to prevent burning.
- Adjust the amount of chicken broth to reach your desired consistency of mole.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 1800-2000
- Fat: 80-100g
- Carbs: 150-180g
- Protein: 100-120g
FAQs
1. Can I substitute the chicken with other proteins?
Absolutely! Guerrero-style red mole works wonderfully with pork, beef, or even vegetables like squash or eggplant.
2. How long can I store leftover mole?
Store leftover mole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It often tastes even better the next day!
Savor the rich tapestry of flavors that this Guerrero-style red mole offers; a testament to the culinary heart of Mexico. From the initial preparation to the final satisfying bite, this recipe is a rewarding journey for home cooks of all levels. Enjoy the fruits of your labor and share this unforgettable dish with loved ones.