Mole: The Rich, Incredibly Complex Sauce of Mexico

When it comes to Mexican cuisine, no sauce holds a more significant place in its culinary heritage than mole. A word that many may think represents just another candy in the Mexican pantry, mole is far more than that. It is a complex, flavorful sauce that can transform a dish into a gastronomic delight.

What is Mole?

Mole is a gravy-like sauce commonly served with savory dishes such as chicken. While the name might make one think of chocolate or peanut butter, the reality is far more nuanced. The term 'mole' itself comes from the Nahuatl word for sauce, 'mōlli', and can be made from a wide variety of ingredients, including chocolate, chilies, nuts, and fruit.

Understanding Mole

Mole is not a food in its own right; rather, it is a word that defines a type of sauce. Its main ingredients determine what the sauce will be. For example, a mole poblano, one of the most internationally recognized varieties, includes ingredients such as chocolate and various chilies, while mole negro is made with additional ingredients like hoja santa for a unique flavor profile.

Ingredients and Varieties of Mole

The preparation of mole is a labor of love and can be quite time-consuming. The process involves roasting and grinding individual ingredients before combining them with stock to form a paste. This paste is then cooked over a low heat with continuous additions of stock and various additional ingredients until it reaches the desired consistency.

Mole can be sweet, spicy, or a perfect blend of both. It is available in a variety of flavors and colors, including yellow, red, black, and green. Each variety has its own unique recipe and story behind its creation, with some regions of Mexico, such as Oaxaca and Puebla, being renowned for their moles. For instance, Puebla is famous for its mole poblano, often used to prepare dishes like enchiladas, while Oaxaca is known for its seven different moles, including the intricately flavored mole negro.

The Rich History of Mole

The origins of mole are somewhat shrouded in legend. One popular story suggests that the dish originated in the kitchens of a convent in Puebla, where ingredients were mixed in haste to create a feast for an impending visit by an archbishop. Another tale suggests that the accidental mix of spices led to the creation of this versatile sauce. Regardless of its origins, the first written recipes for mole only emerged after the War of Independence in 1810.

Regional Variations and Traditional Production

Several regions in Mexico are well-known for their production of mole. San Pedro Atocpan, in Mexico City, is often referred to as the town of mole, with over 90% of the population engaged in its production. Every October, this town hosts an annual mole fair.

One of the largest mole festivals takes place in Puebla, where a record-breaking pot of mole was prepared in 2021, serving over 11,000 people. This festival not only celebrates the creation and consumption of mole but also showcases the culinary prowess of Mexican chefs and the rich cultural heritage of the country.

My Experience with Authentic Mole

As a Mexican American Tejano/Chicano, I have had the privilege of experiencing mole recipes passed down through generations. The explosion of flavors in authentic mole is unforgettable, from the sweet, rich notes of chocolate to the tangy, spicy heat of chilies. It is a sauce that requires a complex understanding of pairing seasonings and a passion for creating one of the finest culinary creations of heritage.

Despite the overwhelming flavors, many of us often resist the temptation to indulge because of the sheer complexity and time involved in its preparation. However, with the availability of pre-made alternatives, it is easier than ever to enjoy this exquisite Mexican sauce in its various forms.

My final answer is unequivocal: Mexican mole is not a candy; it is a sauce that complements various entrees with its rich, complex flavors. Unlike candy, which is more of a sweet indulgence, mole is a work of culinary art that has stood the test of time.

So the next time you come across a dish with the almost eerie phrase, 'Is mole a Mexican candy?', you can confidently say, 'No, mole is a sauce with rich heritage and history that deserves to be cherished as a culinary treasure.' If you ever have the chance, do not miss the opportunity to taste an authentic mole, for it is an unforgettable experience that will leave a lasting impression on your taste buds!