Are you ready to elevate your culinary game with a dish that tantalizes the taste buds and sparks conversation at your dinner table? Introducing the Fermented Chocolate Cranberry Mole—a rich, velvety sauce that seamlessly blends the sweetness of dried cranberries with the deep, decadent notes of dark chocolate. This unique Mexican-inspired recipe not only adds a pop of flavor to your favorite dishes but also offers a delightful twist that will leave your guests wondering how you crafted such a masterpiece. Dive into this intriguing recipe and discover how to create a sauce that’s as versatile as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: Mexican
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried cranberries
- 1 cup dark chocolate, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Measure out 2 cups of dried cranberries, 1 cup of dark chocolate, and chop it into small pieces. Dice 1 onion and mince 3 cloves of garlic.
- In a medium-sized pot, heat a splash of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the onion is translucent, add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
- Add 1 tablespoon of chili powder and 1 teaspoon of cumin to the pot. Stir well to combine the spices with the onion and garlic, cooking for another minute to toast the spices.
- Next, add the 2 cups of dried cranberries to the pot, stirring to incorporate them with the sautéed mixture.
- Pour in 2 cups of vegetable broth, stirring to combine all the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Allow the mixture to simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. This will help the cranberries soften and release their flavors.
- After 1 hour, remove the lid and add the chopped dark chocolate to the pot. Stir well until the chocolate is fully melted and incorporated into the sauce.
- Continue to simmer the mole uncovered for another 30 minutes, allowing it to thicken and the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Once the mole has reached your desired thickness, taste and season with salt as needed. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference.
- Remove the pot from heat and let the mole cool slightly before serving. This mole pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a sauce over tacos.
- Enjoy your Fermented Chocolate Cranberry Mole as a unique and flavorful addition to your meal!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can prepare the cranberries and chop the vegetables a day in advance. This will make the cooking process smoother and quicker.
- Choose Quality Chocolate: Opt for high-quality dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa for a richer flavor. The better the chocolate, the better your mole will taste!
- Adjust the Heat: If you prefer a spicier mole, feel free to add more chili powder or even a dash of cayenne pepper. Taste as you go to find your perfect balance.
- Experiment with Add-ins: Consider adding nuts like almonds or hazelnuts for added texture and flavor. You can also toss in some fresh herbs like cilantro for a fresh finish.
- Let it Rest: After cooking, allow the mole to sit for a few minutes before serving. This resting time helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Perfect Pairings: This mole is fantastic over grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or even drizzled on tacos. Get creative and use it as a dip for tortilla chips for a unique appetizer!
- Storage: Leftover mole can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It also freezes well, making it a great make-ahead option!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 55g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 0mg
