How To Make Chicken Mole Dona Maria – A Step By Step Guide

Indulge in the rich and vibrant flavors of Mexico with this tantalizing recipe for Chicken Mole Doña Maria. This beloved dish is a testament to the culinary artistry of our ancestors, blending a symphony of spices, textures, and aromas. Follow our step-by-step guide to create this authentic masterpiece in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• 1 whole chicken (about 3-4 pounds)
• 1 onion, quartered
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mole Paste:

• 1 pound dried ancho chiles
• 1 pound dried pasilla chiles
• 1 pound dried guajillo chiles
• 1 ounce dried mulato chiles
• 1 ounce dried chipotle chiles
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup pumpkin seeds
• 1 cup sesame seeds
• 1 cup peanuts
• 1/2 cup raisins
• 1/2 cup almonds
• 1/4 cup chocolate chips
• 1/4 cup cinnamon powder
• 1/4 cup cumin powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon anise seeds
• 1/2 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For the Sauce:

• 1 cup mole paste
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Chicken:

• In a large pot, combine the chicken, onion, garlic, bay leaf, oregano, salt, and pepper.
• Cover with water and bring to a boil.
• Reduce heat and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
• Remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest.

2. Make the Mole Paste:

• Remove the stems and seeds from the chiles.
• In a large skillet, toast the chiles over medium heat for 5-7 minutes, or until fragrant.
• Transfer the chiles to a bowl and cover with the chicken broth and water.
• Let soak for 30 minutes, or until the chiles are softened.
• In a blender, combine the soaked chiles, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds, peanuts, raisins, almonds, chocolate chips, cinnamon, cumin, cloves, anise seeds, black peppercorns, and salt.
• Blend until smooth, adding more chicken broth or water if needed.

3. Create the Sauce:

• In a large saucepan, combine the mole paste, chicken broth, and cocoa powder.
• Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring constantly.
• Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce thickens.

4. Assemble the Dish:

• Place the cooked chicken in a large serving dish.
• Pour the mole sauce over the chicken.
• Garnish with fresh cilantro, sesame seeds, and sliced almonds.

5. Serve and Savor:

• Serve the Chicken Mole Doña Maria with warm tortillas, rice, and beans.
• Enjoy the symphony of flavors and texturas as you savor this culinary masterpiece.

Tips for Success:

• Use a variety of chiles to create a complex flavor profile.
• Don’t overcook the chiles, as this can make the mole paste bitter.
• Let the mole sauce simmer for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
• Serve the Chicken Mole Doña Maria with your favorite Mexican side dishes for a complete meal.

Variations:

• Add a touch of heat by using more chipotle chiles.
• Use dark chocolate chips for a richer flavor.
• Add a tablespoon of honey to the sauce for a hint of sweetness.

The Culinary Legacy of Mole Doña Maria:

Mole Doña Maria is a dish steeped in history and tradition. It is believed to have originated in the convents of Puebla, Mexico, during the 17th century. The nuns used the ingredients available to them, such as chiles, spices, and chocolate, to create this culinary masterpiece.

Embracing the Art of Cooking:

Cooking is not just about following instructions; it is an art form that allows us to express ourselves and connect with our heritage. When you make Chicken Mole Doña Maria, you are not only preparing a meal but also embracing the culinary traditions of Mexico.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of chicken?
Yes, you can use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or breasts instead of a whole chicken.

2. How long can I store the mole paste?
The mole paste can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

3. Can I make the mole sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the mole sauce up to 3 days in advance. Reheat it over low heat before serving.

4. What is the best way to serve Chicken Mole Doña Maria?
Serve the Chicken Mole Doña Maria with warm tortillas, rice, and beans for a complete meal.

5. How can I make the mole sauce thicker?
If the mole sauce is too thin, you can add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) to thicken it.