How to Prepare Chicken in Mole Sauce- A Step-by-Step Guide
Cómo preparar pollo en mole is a question that often arises among those who are intrigued by the rich and complex flavors of Mexican cuisine. Mole, a traditional Mexican sauce, is known for its deep, earthy taste and vibrant colors, and when combined with tender chicken, it creates a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. In this article, we will guide you through the process of preparing this iconic dish, ensuring that you can enjoy the authentic taste of mole at home.
Mole is a sauce that has been a part of Mexican cuisine for centuries, with various versions found across different regions of the country. The most traditional mole sauce is made with a blend of chocolate, chili peppers, nuts, seeds, and a variety of spices, all ground together to create a rich and aromatic base. The preparation of mole can be quite time-consuming and requires patience, but the end result is well worth the effort.
To begin preparing pollo en mole, you will need the following ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken, about 4 pounds
– 1 cup of mole sauce
– 1/2 cup of chicken broth
– 1/4 cup of chopped onion
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup of chopped cilantro
Start by washing and drying the chicken, then season it with salt and pepper. In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat and brown the chicken on all sides. Once the chicken is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside.
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they are translucent. Add the mole sauce and chicken broth to the pot, stirring well to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then return the chicken to the pot, making sure it is fully submerged in the sauce.
Reduce the heat to low and let the chicken cook for about 45 minutes to an hour, or until it is tender and cooked through. If the sauce becomes too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth to thin it out.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice the chicken into pieces and return them to the sauce. If desired, add the chopped cilantro for an extra burst of flavor.
Serve the pollo en mole hot, garnished with additional cilantro if you like. This dish is perfect for serving with rice or warm tortillas, and it is sure to impress your family and friends with its rich and complex flavors.
Remember, the key to a successful mole is patience and attention to detail. Take your time to prepare the sauce, and don’t hesitate to experiment with different mole recipes to find the one that suits your taste. With practice, you’ll be able to prepare pollo en mole like a true Mexican chef, and enjoy this delicious dish time and time again.