Holy Mole Sauce – Bex’s Kitchen

Picture this: a warm, sunny afternoon, friends gathered around a grill, laughter fills the air, and enticing aromas waft through the backyard. You want to have a dish ready that steals the spotlight. Enter holy mole sauce. This vibrant sauce bursts with flavor and can elevate countless dishes. Think of it as the magic that turns a simple meal into a culinary masterpiece.

Pair holy mole sauce with grilled chicken for a classic combo, where the sauce deeply enriches the meat. Serve it over roasted vegetables to create a delightful plant-based option. Ever tried it with tacos? When drizzled over a soft corn tortilla, it adds complexity and depth. And don’t overlook enchiladas; they become a festival of flavors with this sauce slathered on top.

Now, let’s dive into the world of holy mole sauce!

Holy mole sauce, often referred to simply as mole, is a staple in Mexican cuisine. Its roots can be traced back to ancient civilizations, where indigenous peoples combined local ingredients to create this flavorful sauce. There are numerous varieties, but today, we’ll focus on a version that stands out for its vivacious mix of spices and rich taste.

But what exactly defines mole sauce? It’s a blend of ingredients ranging from chiles and spices to nuts and chocolate, resulting in a warm, rich concoction. The beauty of this sauce lies in its complexity—the way it dances on your palate, revealing layers of flavor with each bite.

What is Holy Mole Sauce?

Holy mole sauce is an exquisite concoction that brings together an array of ingredients, imbuing it with a depth that tantalizes the taste buds. At its core, mole is a mixture of various chiles, spices, nuts, and sometimes chocolate. This combination creates a deeply flavored sauce that can be used in a multitude of dishes, ranging from meats to vegetable preparations.

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What Does It Taste Like?

Imagine diving into a sauce where the earthiness of roasted chiles greets you first, followed by the warmth of spices like cumin and cinnamon. A hint of sweetness from chocolate balances out the heat, while a tangy note lifts the dish. 

Each ingredient harmonizes beautifully, making the experience dynamic and satisfying. It’s as if you’ve opened a treasure chest of flavors that unfolds the longer you savor it.

Why This Recipe Works

1. Ingredient Balance: Each component has a purpose. The richness of almond butter adds creaminess, while cocoa provides depth without overwhelming the other flavors.
   
2. Easy to Prepare: This recipe doesn’t require lengthy preparation or extensive kitchen expertise. Just follow the steps, and you’ll have a delightful sauce ready in no time.
   
3. Adaptable: You can adjust the heat by choosing milder or hotter chili powders. This means you can cater to different palates at your gathering.
   
4. Nutrient-Dense: With the addition of vegetables, spices, and even optional nut butter, this sauce not only tantalizes your taste buds but also packs a punch in terms of nutrition.
   

Ingredients for Holy Mole Sauce

To create this holy mole sauce, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  
• 1 cup chopped white onion
  
• 4 garlic cloves, peeled and finely minced
  
• 1 teaspoon fine sea salt
  
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  
• ½ teaspoon dried oregano leaves
  
• ¼ cup chili powder (mild or hot, depending on preference)
  
• 2 tablespoons plain all-purpose flour
  
• 1 tablespoon concentrated tomato paste
  
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened cocoa powder
  
• 2 ½ cups vegetable broth
  
• 2 tablespoons creamy almond butter (or any preferred nut or seed butter)
  
• 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely diced
  
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
  

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Heat the Oil

In a medium saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. This sets the stage for all the flavors to come.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the onions first. Sauté them until they become translucent, about 5 minutes. Then toss in the minced garlic. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen. Cook for another minute, stirring constantly.

Step 3: Add Your Spices

Now it’s time to introduce the spices: salt, cumin, cinnamon, and oregano. Stir them in for about a minute. This helps bloom the spices, releasing their essential oils and intensifying the flavors.

Step 4: Mix in the Chili Powder and Flour

Add the chili powder, stirring for a few moments before adding the flour. This will help thicken our sauce later. Keep stirring to ensure nothing burns.

Step 5: Incorporate Tomato Paste and Cocoa

Add the tomato paste and cocoa powder next. The combination here is nothing short of magical. Stir until well mixed, and you’ll notice a beautiful color emerging.

Step 6: Pour in the Broth

Gradually pour in the vegetable broth. Whisk it as you go along to prevent any lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 7: Blend in the Nut Butter

Once simmering, add the almond butter and mix. This will create a silky texture while imparting nuttiness.

Step 8: Final Touches

Add the diced jalapeño, smoked paprika, and apple cider vinegar. These final ingredients add a layer of brightness and heat to balance your glorious sauce. Let it simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 9: Adjust to Taste

Taste your mole sauce. Do you need more seasoning or spice? Adjust as necessary.

Step 10: Serve Warm

Once you’re happy with the flavor, serve the sauce warm over your chosen dish.

Notes

• Adjust the Spice: If you’re unsure about the heat, start with a lower amount of chili powder. You can always add more!
  
• Cool Before Storing: Allow the mole sauce to cool completely before storing it in the fridge.
  
• Taste as You Go: This sauce benefits from tweaks. Don’t be shy about adjusting flavors to suit your palate.
  
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh spices and high-quality broths make a noticeable difference in taste.
  
• Make It Ahead: This sauce keeps well in the fridge for several days, or you can freeze it for later use.
  

Nutrition Information

Here’s the approximate nutrition breakdown per serving (1/4 cup):

• Calories: 80
  
• Total Fat: 4g
  
• Saturated Fat: 0.5g
  
• Carbohydrates: 9g
  
• Fiber: 2g
  
• Sugar: 1g
  
• Protein: 2g
  

How to Store the Leftovers?

Once you’ve prepared your holy mole sauce, let it cool completely. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers. This way, you can enjoy it whenever you please!

Sides for Holy Mole Sauce

Consider these sides to enhance your mole experience:

• Rice: Fluffy white or brown rice pairs beautifully, soaking up the flavors while adding texture.
  
• Corn Tortillas: Warm, soft tortillas make the ideal vessel for your sauce. Top them with veggies for a satisfying bite.
  
• Grilled Veggies: Roasted zucchini, squash, or bell peppers provide a colorful and healthy accompaniment.
  
• Beans: Black beans or pinto beans bring extra protein and heartiness, balancing out the richness of the mole sauce.
  

Alternative Choices for Ingredients

Sometimes, you might not have everything on hand. Here are some alternatives:

• Nut Butter Substitutes: If almond butter is unavailable, use peanut butter, sunflower seed butter, or tahini. Each will impart its unique flavor.
  
• Chili Powder Options: In the absence of chili powder, consider using smoked paprika or cayenne pepper, recalling the flavor profile with a twist.
  
• Vegetable Broth: If vegetable broth isn’t on the shelves, chicken broth or plain water can suffice, but the flavor will differ slightly.
  
• Onion Alternatives: Scallions or shallots can serve as substitutes for onion if you prefer a milder flavor.
  

FAQs about Holy Mole Sauce

Conclusion

Diving into the world of holy mole sauce opens the door to a myriad of culinary possibilities. Its depth, warmth, and versatility cater to any gathering. By taking the time to prepare this sauce, you not only expand your cooking repertoire but also create memorable dining experiences. 

Why not start today? Fire up your stove, gather those ingredients, and prepare for the flavor explosion that is holy mole sauce. Your taste buds will thank you!

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