Mole Negro

Mole Negro is a rich and complex sauce from Oaxaca, Mexico, known for its deep flavors and dark color, making it a perfect companion for tender chicken. This Halal version retains the authentic essence while using ingredients that adhere to dietary restrictions.

Ingredients

• Chicken thighs - 300 grams
• Olive oil - 2 tablespoons
• Onion - 1 medium, chopped
• Garlic - 2 cloves, minced
• Dried pasilla chilies - 2, seeds removed
• Dried ancho chilies - 2, seeds removed
• Tomato - 1 medium, chopped
• Almonds - 30 grams, toasted
• Sesame seeds - 2 tablespoons, toasted
• Cinnamon stick - 1 small
• Cumin powder - 1 teaspoon
• Oregano - 1 teaspoon
• Chicken broth - 500 milliliters
• Dark chocolate (70% cocoa) - 20 grams, chopped
• Salt - to taste
• Pepper - to taste
• Fresh cilantro - for garnish

Steps

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. In a separate pot, boil water and soak the dried pasilla and ancho chilies for about 15 minutes until softened. Drain and set aside.
4. Add the soaked chilies, chopped tomato, toasted almonds, toasted sesame seeds, cinnamon stick, cumin, oregano, and chicken broth to the skillet with onions and garlic. Bring to a simmer.
5. Simmer for 20-25 minutes to allow flavors to meld, then remove from heat. Let cool slightly, then blend the mixture until smooth.
6. Return the blended sauce to the pot and add the chopped dark chocolate. Stir until melted and incorporated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. In a separate pan, sear the chicken thighs over medium-high heat until browned on both sides, about 6-7 minutes per side.
8. Reduce heat to low, pour the mole sauce over the chicken, cover, and simmer for another 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
9. Serve the mole negro over rice or tortillas, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Nutrition

• Calories: 480
• Protein: 30 g
• Carbs: 30 g
• Fiber: 5 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 600 mg
• Cholesterol: 110 mg
• Total Fat: 30 g
• Saturated Fat: 5 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
• Water: 0.5 L

Health Benefits

• High in antioxidants from dark chocolate and chilies.
• Good source of protein from chicken and healthy fats from almonds.

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