Recipe Mesa

Mole Sauce

Deeply flavored mole sauce built on toasted chiles, charred vegetables, warm spices, and dark chocolate.

  1. Heat dry skillet over medium-high heat
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oilHeat over medium-high heatCook medium-high, stirring frequently, 10-12 minTaste and adjust vinegar if needed
3 dried ancho chiles, stems and seeds removedToast 30 sec per side; avoid burningSoak in boiling water 20 minDrainBlend on high until smooth, 1-2 min
2 dried guajillo chiles, stems and seeds removed
3 Roma tomatoes, halvedChar over high heat, turning, 8-10 minCool and peel garlic
1 white onion, quartered
4 garlic cloves, unpeeled
1 teaspoon cumin seedsToast in dry skillet 60 sec
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
1/4 teaspoon MSG
1 tablespoon white miso paste
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 ounce dark chocolate (70%+), chopped
2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth

Notes

The sauce gets its depth from charring, toasting, and chocolate rather than salt. If it tastes flat, add another small splash of apple cider vinegar before adding salt. Anchos are mild and slightly sweet, while guajillos have a bit more heat.

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