Mole Almendrado
Cena • Mexico
About Mole Almendrado
Almond-based mole with chicken
How to Make Mole Almendrado (Traditional & Healthy Version)
Mole Almendrado is a cherished Mexican dish, renowned for its rich, complex flavors and historical roots in the heart of Mexico. Originating from the regions of Puebla and Oaxaca, this traditional mole features almonds as a key ingredient, lending a delicate nutty sweetness that perfectly balances the savory and spicy elements. Mole Almendrado is often prepared for special occasions and family gatherings, making it a dish that brings people together around the dinner table. The sauce is a tapestry of toasted almonds, dried chiles, tomatoes, and aromatic spices, simmered to create a luxurious and silky texture. Unlike some heavier moles, this version is crafted to be both authentic and health-conscious, using lean chicken breast and minimizing added fats. The combination of protein and healthy fats, along with the deep, smoky, and slightly sweet flavor profile, makes Mole Almendrado a satisfying choice for those looking to enjoy true Mexican cuisine without compromising on nutrition. Its vibrant history and bold flavors make it a must-try for anyone eager to explore the culinary landscape of Mexico.
Ingredients(for 1 chicken breast with 1/2 cup mole sauce per person)
- 2 pieces (about 150g each) Chicken breast, skinless & boneless (Pechuga de pollo)
- 1/3 cup Raw almonds (Almendras)
- 2 Dried ancho chiles (Stemmed and seeded)
- 1 Dried pasilla chile (Stemmed and seeded)
- 1 medium Tomato (Roma preferred)
- 1/4 cup White onion (Finely chopped)
- 2 Garlic cloves (Minced)
- 1 cup Low-sodium chicken broth (Caldo de pollo)
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil (Extra virgin)
- 1 small Cinnamon stick (Canela)
- 1/2 teaspoon Black peppercorns
- 1/2 teaspoon Salt (To taste)
Instructions
- 1
Toast the almonds in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes until golden and fragrant. Set aside.
4 minutes
Keep stirring to prevent burning and ensure even toasting.
- 2
In the same skillet, lightly toast the dried ancho and pasilla chiles until they puff up, about 1 minute. Transfer to a bowl and cover with hot water to rehydrate for 5 minutes.
6 minutes
Do not over-toast the chiles—they can become bitter.
- 3
In a blender, combine the toasted almonds, rehydrated chiles (drained), tomato, onion, garlic, cinnamon stick, black peppercorns, and 1/2 cup of chicken broth. Blend until smooth.
3 minutes
Blend in batches if needed for a silky sauce.
- 4
Heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Pour in the blended sauce and cook, stirring frequently, for 8 minutes until thickened and aromatic.
8 minutes
Stir constantly to avoid sticking and burning.
Why This Dish is Healthy
This Mole Almendrado is a healthy choice because it uses lean protein, heart-healthy fats from almonds, and natural spices instead of heavy oils or excess salt. The sauce is packed with nutrients from vegetables and nuts, keeping calories moderate while maximizing flavor. The recipe is also free from refined sugars, making it suitable for weight management and overall wellness.
Mole Almendrado is a nutrient-rich dish thanks to its combination of lean chicken breast and almonds. Chicken provides high-quality protein essential for muscle repair and satiety, while almonds add healthy monounsaturated fats, vitamin E, and magnesium. The sauce’s inclusion of tomatoes, chiles, and spices offers antioxidants such as lycopene and capsaicin, known for their anti-inflammatory properties. This version limits added oils and sodium, supporting heart health and balanced nutrition.
Pro Tips
- 💡Toast nuts and chiles carefully to develop deep flavor without burning.
- 💡Blend the sauce until completely smooth for a luxurious texture.
- 💡Prepare the mole sauce ahead of time—it often tastes even better the next day.
Storage & Serving
Store leftover mole sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of broth if needed to restore consistency. Cooked chicken can be stored separately for optimal freshness.
Best served: Lunch or Dinner
Información nutricional
| Nutriente | Por 100 g |
|---|---|
| Energía | 240.0 kcal |
| Proteínas | 14.0 g |
| Carbohidratos | 10.0 g |
| Grasas totales | 16.0 g |
| Fibra | 3.0 g |
