Enchiladas de Mole Poblano offer a tantalizing combination of tender chicken wrapped in soft tortillas, smothered in a velvety, deeply flavorful mole sauce. The complex flavors of the mole, with hints of chocolate, cinnamon, and spices, pair beautifully with the warmth of the tortillas and the richness of the chicken.
This dish is a true representation of traditional Mexican cuisine. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a special occasion, these enchiladas are sure to satisfy with their bold and comforting flavors. Garnished with toasted sesame seeds, fresh cilantro, and crumbled queso fresco, they offer a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy elements.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 12 corn tortillas
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup mole poblano paste
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup sesame seeds, toasted
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco
- 1/4 cup sour cream
Directions:
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Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté the onions and garlic for 3-4 minutes until softened.
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Add mole paste, chicken broth, cumin, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Stir until smooth and simmer for 10 minutes.
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Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
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Heat tortillas in a dry pan for a few seconds on each side, then dip in the mole sauce to coat.
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Fill each tortilla with shredded chicken and roll tightly.
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Place the rolled enchiladas in a baking dish and cover with remaining mole sauce.
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Bake for 20-25 minutes until heated through.
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Remove from the oven, sprinkle with sesame seeds, cilantro, and crumbled queso fresco.
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Serve with a drizzle of sour cream.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 45 minutes | Kcal: 300 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
The Origin and Significance of Mole Poblano
Mole poblano is a famous Mexican sauce that has earned a reputation for its bold, multi-layered flavor. It is believed to have originated in Puebla, a city renowned for its culinary history. Mole has long been associated with celebrations and important occasions in Mexican culture. In the past, it was prepared for weddings, baptisms, and other festive gatherings, making it an integral part of Mexican heritage. The mole itself is a complex concoction of dried chiles, nuts, seeds, spices, fruits, and chocolate, all blended together to create a sauce that is simultaneously spicy, sweet, smoky, and savory.
The ingredients in mole poblano vary from region to region, but the core ingredients like mulato chiles, almonds, peanuts, and chocolate remain constant. These ingredients bring out the dish’s unique, comforting, and indulgent flavor profile, making it a standout meal that can be enjoyed with various fillings like chicken, turkey, or even vegetables.
The Challenge and Reward of Preparing Enchiladas de Mole Poblano
While this dish requires time, patience, and a number of ingredients, it is incredibly rewarding. Preparing Enchiladas de Mole Poblano involves multiple steps, starting with boiling the chicken to create a flavorful broth. This broth is then reserved for use in the mole sauce. The next step is the preparation of the mole, which involves toasting dried chiles, nuts, seeds, and other spices before blending them into a smooth, velvety sauce.
The richness of the mole sauce is what sets this dish apart from regular enchiladas. The sauce is then poured over tortillas stuffed with chicken, creating a combination of flavors that dance across the palate. The final touches—garnishes of toasted sesame seeds, crumbled queso fresco, and thinly sliced onions—elevate the dish even further, adding texture and freshness to each bite.
Perfect for Special Occasions and Family Gatherings
Enchiladas de Mole Poblano is ideal for celebrations and gatherings. The dish’s intricate flavors make it a memorable part of any meal, perfect for both casual family dinners and elaborate special occasions. Whether you’re preparing it for a holiday meal or a dinner party, this dish will undoubtedly impress your guests. The deep, complex flavors of the mole, combined with the tender chicken and soft tortillas, make it a feast for the senses. This dish is the epitome of comfort food, providing both satisfaction and joy to those lucky enough to enjoy it.
A Labor of Love with a Deeply Rewarding Taste
One of the most remarkable aspects of Enchiladas de Mole Poblano is how the flavors evolve over time. After the mole is prepared, it needs to simmer for a while, allowing the ingredients to meld together, resulting in a flavor that’s even more complex the next day. The longer the mole sits, the deeper the flavors become, making it a perfect dish to prepare ahead of time.
Additionally, because mole poblano is so rich and flavorful, it pairs well with a variety of side dishes. You can serve it alongside traditional Mexican rice, beans, or even a simple green salad to balance the richness of the enchiladas. The result is a full, satisfying meal that offers a unique taste of Mexico’s culinary excellence.
Serving and Garnishing Enchiladas de Mole Poblano
Once the enchiladas are rolled and topped with the mole sauce, it’s time to add the garnishes. The toasted sesame seeds add a slight crunch, while the crumbled queso fresco provides a creamy contrast to the spicy sauce. Sliced white onions add a touch of brightness and acidity, cutting through the richness of the mole. These garnishes not only enhance the dish’s flavor but also add a visual appeal that makes the plate inviting and colorful.
Conclusion: A Dish Worth the Effort
Enchiladas de Mole Poblano is undoubtedly one of the most flavorful dishes in Mexican cuisine. It’s a beautiful representation of the country’s vibrant culinary traditions, showcasing the use of local ingredients in creating a sauce that is both intricate and unforgettable. Although the recipe may require several hours of preparation, the end result is a dish that’s nothing short of spectacular. Whether you’re hosting a special occasion or simply want to indulge in some delicious homemade comfort food, this dish is sure to impress. The rich, smoky mole, paired with tender chicken and wrapped in soft tortillas, creates a mouthwatering experience that is worth every bit of the effort.
If you’re looking to explore the depths of Mexican cuisine and treat your family or friends to a truly memorable meal, Enchiladas de Mole Poblano should be at the top of your list. This dish is more than just a meal—it’s an experience.