Authentic Mexican Beef Mole Recipe

Ingredients

1.5 pounds of beef chuck roast, cut into cubes
1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
1 large onion, diced
3 cloves of garlic, minced
2 tablespoons of sesame seeds
1 teaspoon of cumin
1 canned chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
1 ounce of unsweetened chocolate, chopped
1 can (15 ounces) of diced tomatoes
1 cup of beef broth
1 teaspoon of salt
1/2 teaspoon of black pepper
2 tablespoons of peanut butter
1 tablespoon of sugar
1/2 cup of almonds, finely ground
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Steps and instructions

Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Add the beef cubes to the pot and brown on all sides, then remove the beef and set it aside.
In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent.
Add the minced garlic, sesame seeds, and cumin to the pot and cook for another minute.
Add the minced chipotle pepper, chopped chocolate, diced tomatoes, beef broth, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir until the chocolate is melted.
Return the beef to the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 2 hours, until the beef is tender.
Stir in the peanut butter, sugar, and ground almonds and let it cook for another 30 minutes.
Adjust the seasoning if necessary and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Tools for making

Large pot - Used to cook the beef and sauce.
Cutting board - To chop the onion, garlic, and chocolate.
Chef's knife - For cutting the beef and other ingredients.
Wooden spoon - To stir the ingredients while cooking.
Measuring spoons - For precise measurement of ingredients like salt, cumin, and sugar.
Can opener - To open the can of diced tomatoes.
Blender or food processor - To finely grind the almonds.
Saucepan - To melt the chocolate and peanut butter.
Tongs - For handling the beef cubes while browning.
Spatula - To scrape the pot and ensure all ingredients are mixed well.

Recipe variations

Replace beef with chicken or pork for a different protein option.
Add vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to enhance the dish.
For a spicier version, increase the amount of chipotle pepper or add additional hot peppers.
Experiment with different types of chocolate, such as dark chocolate or chili-infused chocolate, for unique flavor profiles.
Include a variety of nuts like peanuts, cashews, or pine nuts instead of almonds for a different nutty flavor.
For a vegetarian or vegan option, substitute the meat with tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Try using different spices like cinnamon, cloves, or coriander to add a twist to the traditional mole flavor.
For a gluten-free version, use a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch instead of the flour-based peanut butter.
Serve the mole with alternative side dishes such as rice, quinoa, or tortillas to suit personal taste preferences.

Recipe overview

This recipe will guide you through the process of making a savory and rich Beef Mole. Originating from Mexico, Mole is a traditional sauce that combines complex flavors including chocolate, chili peppers, and a variety of spices. In this recipe, we've chosen to use beef as the main protein, which is simmered until tender in the mole sauce. With a preparation time of around 30 minutes and a cooking time of approximately 2.5 hours, this hearty dish is perfect for a weekend dinner. The result will be a flavorful and satisfying meal with a depth of flavor that is balanced by the sweetness of the chocolate and the warmth of the spices. Enjoy this Beef Mole served over rice or with warm tortillas.

Common questions

Can I use a different cut of beef for this recipe? Yes, you can use a different cut of beef such as beef stew meat or beef sirloin if preferred.
Can I substitute the vegetable oil with another type of oil? Yes, you can use olive oil or canola oil as a substitute for vegetable oil.
Can I omit the peanuts or substitute them with another nut? Yes, you can omit the peanuts if you have allergies or prefer not to use them. You can substitute them with another nut such as cashews or walnuts if desired.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this recipe by substituting the beef with diced tofu or cooked vegetables such as mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and omit the chocolate if desired.
Is there a way to make this recipe spicier? Yes, if you prefer a spicier mole, you can add more minced chipotle peppers or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the recipe.

Serving dishes and utensils

Large Pot - A pot large enough to accommodate the beef and other ingredients.
Cutting Board - For preparing the onion, garlic, and other ingredients.
Chef's Knife - A sharp knife for cutting the beef and other ingredients.
Wooden Spoon - For stirring and mixing the ingredients in the pot.
Measuring Spoons - To accurately measure the spices and other ingredients.
Can Opener - For opening the canned chipotle pepper and diced tomatoes.
Saucepan - To melt the chocolate, if needed.
Blender or Food Processor - Optional, for grinding the almonds into a fine powder.
Serving Platter or Plates - For presenting the finished dish.
Garnish Sprigs - Optional, for adding a touch of freshness to the dish.

Origin stories

Beef Mole has its roots in the rich culinary traditions of Mexico, specifically in the regions of Puebla and Oaxaca. The word "mole" comes from the Nahuatl word "mōlli", which means sauce or stew. It's usually made for special occasions due to its lengthy and complex preparation process. The dish is a perfect symbol of the fusion of indigenous and Spanish influences that have shaped Mexican cuisine. The key ingredient - chocolate, was considered sacred by the ancient Aztecs and Mayans, and it was later adopted by the Spanish who added it to their savory dishes. The result is a rich, aromatic dish with a depth of flavor that is a true reflection of Mexico's diverse and vibrant culture. So, when you're enjoying your Beef Mole, remember that you're not just having a meal, but also partaking in a cultural heritage hundreds of years in the making.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.