When the warm scents of spices and chocolate filled my kitchen, I knew I’d stumbled upon something special: Mixiote de Carnero. This beloved Mexican dish, featuring tender lamb enveloped in a rich, chocolate-infused sauce, evokes the heart and soul of family gatherings. I first discovered it while hosting a fiesta for my friends, wanting to serve something beyond the usual fast-food fare. It quickly became an adored centerpiece, each bite bursting with flavors that tell stories of tradition and community.
Best of all, this dish is a cinch to make! Utilizing a double boiler, this Mixiote de Carnero creates a delightful steaming experience that ensures the meat remains juicy and infused with that unique chocolate richness—perfect for impressing family and friends alike. As we gather around the table, I’m often reminded that it’s not just about the food, but also the laughter and memories made while sharing a hearty meal. Let’s dive into this festive recipe that captures the essence of home-cooked love!
Why is Mixiotes de Carnero a Must-Try?
The hearty flavor of Mixiotes de Carnero is unlike anything you’ve experienced, where tender lamb meets rich chocolate in a festive embrace.
- Family-Friendly Fun: Perfect for gatherings, everyone will love this unique twist!
- Cultural Authenticity: Experience a delicious piece of Mexican tradition right in your home.
- Effortless Cooking: The double boiler method simplifies preparation, saving you time and effort.
- Endless Variations: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary preferences.
- Memorable Experience: Gather friends and family to enjoy a dish that serves not just food, but connects hearts and homes.
Ingredients for Mixiotes de Carnero
• Here’s everything you need to create this delightful dish:
For the Wrapping
- Hojas de Papel Aluminio – Essential for steaming, make sure to fold tightly to keep in steam.
For the Rich Chocolate Sauce
- Chocolate para Mesa ABUELITA® Tabasco – This unique chocolate enhances the savoriness of the lamb; use dark chocolate if unavailable.
- Chiles Guajillo – Provides depth and mild heat; pasilla chiles can be used for a different flavor profile.
- Cebolla (Onion) – Adds sweetness and depth; shallots work as a milder substitute.
- Sal con Ajo en Polvo (Garlic Salt) – Enhances flavor; regular salt combined with crushed garlic can suffice.
- Jitomates (Tomatoes) – Contributes acidity and brightness; canned tomatoes can replace fresh if needed.
- Consomé de Pollo en Polvo – Infuses umami depth; homemade chicken broth makes a great alternative.
- Agua – Necessary for diluting the sauce; no substitutions are required.
For the Main Dish
- Espaldilla de Carnero (Lamb Shoulder) – The star of the dish, this cuts tender through steaming; chicken can be a lighter alternative.
- Nopales – Adds unique texture; substitute with green beans for a similar crunch.
- Papas (Potatoes) – A hearty component to round out the meal; consider sweet potatoes for a healthier twist.
This Mixiotes de Carnero recipe promises to delight both your palate and your loved ones, bringing a warm slice of Mexican tradition to your table. Enjoy the journey of cooking and the joy of sharing!
How to Make Mixiotes de Carnero
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Prepare the Pouches: Start by preparing 4 aluminum foil pouches. Cut the foil into squares large enough to hold the lamb and vegetables, ensuring you can seal them tightly to keep the steam in.
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Blend the Sauce: In a blender, combine the Chocolate para Mesa ABUELITA®, chiles, onion, garlic salt, tomatoes, chicken consomé, and water. Blend until you achieve a smooth, velvety sauce that’s rich and aromatic.
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Assemble the Ingredients: Inside each foil pouch, place a piece of lamb, along with a handful of nopales and cubed potatoes. Pour the blended chocolate sauce generously over the meat and veggies, ensuring they are well-coated.
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Seal the Pouches: Carefully fold the pouches closed, sealing them tightly by folding the edges twice. This step is crucial to keep the moisture locked in during cooking.
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Cook the Mixiote: Place the sealed pouches in a pot fitted for a double boiler. Cook over medium heat for approximately 60 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the lamb is beautifully tender.
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Serve the Dish: Once cooked, remove the pouches from the pot. Open them carefully to release the fragrant steam, and serve immediately, savoring the rich flavors and comforting aromas.
Optional: Garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and added freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Expert Tips for Mixiotes de Carnero
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Seal Tight: Ensure your aluminum foil pouches are sealed properly; any leaks can lead to dry meat and lost flavor during cooking.
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Cook Time Awareness: Cooking time may vary based on meat thickness. Check tenderness to avoid overcooking the lamb, which could result in a tough texture.
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Rest Before Serving: Let the dish rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the richness of the mixiotes de carnero.
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Pouch Placement: Arrange the pouches in your double boiler without overcrowding, allowing steam to circulate freely for even cooking.
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Flavor Experimentation: Feel free to swap out ingredients—like using beef instead of lamb or adding seasonal veggies—to make mixiotes de carnero your own!
Make Ahead Options
These Mixiotes de Carnero are fantastic for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy the rich flavors of this dish even on your busiest nights! You can prepare the aluminum foil pouches filled with lamb, nopales, and potatoes up to 24 hours in advance. Simply blend the chocolate sauce and pour it over the assembled ingredients before sealing them tightly. To maintain quality, refrigerate the pouches and keep them sealed until you’re ready to cook. When it’s mealtime, just place the pouches in a double boiler and steam for about 60 minutes, ensuring tender, juicy flavors are just as delicious as when freshly made. Enjoy homemade comfort food with minimal effort!
Storage Tips for Mixiotes de Carnero
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Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the juicy texture of the mixiotes de carnero while preserving flavors.
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Freezer: If you want to save it for later, freeze the pouches (unopened) for up to 2 months. Just be sure to label them to keep track of what you have!
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Reheating: To reheat, place the frozen pouches in a pot of simmering water for about 20-30 minutes until heated through. This method keeps the meat tender and the sauce intact.
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Thawing Tip: For best results, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating, allowing flavors to meld and texture to improve.
What to Serve with Mixiote de Carnero con Chocolate?
Creating a delightful meal to accompany this unique dish takes it to a whole new level of comfort and satisfaction.
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Warm Tortillas: Soft and perfect for wrapping around your mixiote, tortillas bring a traditional touch and help scoop up every delicious bite.
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Fresh Salsa: A zesty salsa adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors, enhancing each mouthful with bright, vibrant notes.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: The fluffy rice infused with lime juice is a perfect side that complements the savory and chocolatey notes of the lamb.
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Elote (Mexican Street Corn): Grilled corn topped with creamy cheese and spices enhances the festive spirit of your meal, offering a creamy texture that balances out the richness.
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Refried Beans: Creamy and hearty, they provide a comforting element that makes the meal even more satisfying and pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the mixiote.
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Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado adds a creamy, buttery layer that not only tastes great but also offers a beautiful contrast to the savory lamb.
Pairing these delicious sides will transform your dinner into a true feast, perfect for family gatherings or special occasions!
Mixiotes de Carnero Variations
Feel free to get creative and personalize this dish to suit your taste buds!
- Beef Swap: Use beef shoulder instead of lamb for a different flavor that still offers tender, juicy meat.
- Vegetarian Delight: Replace the meat with mushrooms or jackfruit to create a rich, earthy treat for plant-based eaters. Imagine the aroma filling your kitchen with earthy goodness!
- Zesty Kick: Add a few diced jalapeños or serrano peppers for a delightful kick of heat that will awaken your senses.
- Extra Veggies: Toss in some carrots or zucchini for added color and nutrients, making your mixiotes even heartier. Your family will love discovering hidden veggies in every bite!
- Savory Herbs: Sprinkling fresh cilantro or oregano in the sauce introduces an extra layer of freshness that pairs beautifully with the chocolate.
- Sweet Potato Twist: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes to infuse a natural sweetness and nutritional boost into the mix.
- More Chocolate: Feeling adventurous? Add a touch of cocoa powder for an intensified chocolate flavor that deepens the dish’s richness.
- Regional Chiles: Try using chipotle or ancho chiles for a smokier flavor that embodies the essence of Mexican cuisine.
Let your imagination run wild! Each variation is a new opportunity to create a unique family favorite.
Mixiote de Carnero Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best lamb for Mixiote de Carnero?
Absolutely! Look for lamb shoulder that has a good amount of marbling, which indicates tenderness. The meat should have a bright pink color with minimal dark spots. Choose pieces that are about an inch thick for even cooking.
How should I store leftovers of Mixiote de Carnero?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures the meat stays tender and flavorful. When reheating, do so gently in a saucepan or microwave to preserve the mixiote’s delicious essence!
Can I freeze Mixiotes de Carnero?
Yes! You can freeze the unopened aluminum foil pouches for up to 2 months. Just make sure to label them with the date. When you’re ready to enjoy again, thaw them overnight in the fridge, then reheat in simmering water for about 20-30 minutes until warmed through.
What if my potatoes are not tender after cooking?
If you find the potatoes are still firm after 60 minutes of cooking, don’t worry! Just return them to the pot, seal the pouches tightly again, and steam for an additional 10-15 minutes. The cooking time can vary based on the size of the potato cubes, so ensure they are cut uniformly for even cooking.
Is Mixiote de Carnero suitable for those with dietary restrictions?
Very! This dish is versatile and can be adapted for various dietary needs. For example, to make a lighter version, substitute lamb with chicken. For vegetarians, using mushrooms or jackfruit instead of meat gives a wonderful texture and flavor. Always check for allergies to specific spices or chocolate used in the recipe.
How do I know when the lamb is properly cooked?
Ensure the lamb is fork-tender and can be easily pulled apart with a fork. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should ideally reach 145°F (63°C) for a juicy and safe serving. It’s always best to let it rest for a few minutes before unwrapping to lock in those succulent flavors.
Savory Mixiotes de Carnero with Chocolate: A Family Favorite
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare the Pouches: Start by preparing 4 aluminum foil pouches. Cut the foil into squares large enough to hold the lamb and vegetables, ensuring you can seal them tightly to keep the steam in.
- Blend the Sauce: In a blender, combine the Chocolate para Mesa ABUELITA®, chiles, onion, garlic salt, tomatoes, chicken consomé, and water. Blend until you achieve a smooth, velvety sauce that’s rich and aromatic.
- Assemble the Ingredients: Inside each foil pouch, place a piece of lamb, along with a handful of nopales and cubed potatoes. Pour the blended chocolate sauce generously over the meat and veggies, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Seal the Pouches: Carefully fold the pouches closed, sealing them tightly by folding the edges twice. This step is crucial to keep the moisture locked in during cooking.
- Cook the Mixiote: Place the sealed pouches in a pot fitted for a double boiler. Cook over medium heat for approximately 60 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender and the lamb is beautifully tender.
- Serve the Dish: Once cooked, remove the pouches from the pot. Open them carefully to release the fragrant steam, and serve immediately, savoring the rich flavors and comforting aromas.