Transform your kitchen into a mexican fiesta: how to make authentic enchiladas de mole

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Enchiladas de Mole, a beloved Mexican dish that seamlessly blends rich mole sauce with tender enchiladas. This comprehensive guide will take you through each step of crafting this culinary masterpiece, ensuring you create an authentic and unforgettable dining experience.

Ingredients for the Mole Sauce:

• 6 ancho chiles
• 6 pasilla chiles
• 4 guajillo chiles
• 2 chipotle chiles en adobo
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 cup vegetable oil
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
• 1/4 cup peanut butter
• 1/4 cup sesame seeds
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup almonds
• 1/2 cup sugar

Ingredients for the Enchiladas:

• 12 corn tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
• 1 cup shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or cheddar)
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• Cilantro leaves, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preparing the Mole Sauce:

• Remove the stems and seeds from the chiles.
• Toast the chiles on a comal or in a skillet until fragrant.
• Soak the toasted chiles in hot water for 30 minutes.
• Purée the chiles, onion, garlic, and spices in a blender.
• Heat the oil in a large saucepan and add the chile purée. Sauté for 10 minutes.
• Add the chicken broth, cocoa powder, peanut butter, sesame seeds, raisins, almonds, and sugar.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 hours, or until thickened.

2. Assembling the Enchiladas:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Spread a thin layer of mole sauce in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
• Dip each tortilla into the mole sauce and fill it with chicken, cheese, and onion.
• Roll up the tortillas and place them seam-side down in the baking dish.

3. Baking the Enchiladas:

• Pour the remaining mole sauce over the enchiladas.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the mole sauce is bubbly.

4. Garnishing and Serving:

• Sprinkle with cilantro leaves.
• Serve with rice and beans, if desired.

Tips for the Perfect Enchiladas de Mole:

• Use a variety of chiles to create a complex flavor profile.
• Don’t overcook the mole sauce. It should be thick and flavorful, but not burnt.
• Shred your own chicken for the best texture.
• Use fresh tortillas for the best results.

Variations:

• Add additional fillings to your enchiladas, such as black beans, corn, or bell peppers.
• Top with sour cream or Mexican crema for a creamy touch.
• Serve with guacamole or pico de gallo for a fresh and flavorful accompaniment.

The Art of Pairing Enchiladas de Mole:

• Pair Enchiladas de Mole with a light-bodied white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc.
• For a more traditional experience, serve with Mexican beer or horchata.

The History and Significance of Enchiladas de Mole:

Enchiladas de Mole have a rich history dating back to pre-Columbian Mexico. The Aztecs used to prepare a similar dish called “chilmole,” which consisted of meat and vegetables covered in a spicy sauce made from chiles and spices. Over time, the recipe evolved to include chocolate and other ingredients, creating the mole sauce we know today.

Conclusion:

Mastering the art of Enchiladas de Mole is a culinary journey that will leave your taste buds craving for more. With the right ingredients, techniques, and a touch of patience, you can create this authentic Mexican dish that embodies the flavors and traditions of the country. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your senses.

Basics You Wanted To Know

1. What is the best type of chocolate to use for mole sauce?
Unsweetened cocoa powder is the preferred choice for mole sauce, as it provides a rich and intense flavor.

2. Can I make mole sauce ahead of time?
Yes, mole sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.

3. What can I do if my mole sauce is too spicy?
Add sugar or honey to balance out the spiciness. You can also add more chicken broth to dilute the heat.