Mole Enchiladas
Introduction to Mole Enchiladas
Mole Enchiladas are a popular dish in Mexican cuisine known for their rich, savory, and slightly spicy flavor. Originating from the various regions of Mexico, mole sauces vary in ingredients and flavors but are often characterized by their complex and deep taste. The word "mole" comes from "molli," which means "sauce" or "concoction" in the Nahuatl language. Mole can be traced back to pre-Hispanic Mexico, and the dish has evolved by incorporating ingredients like chocolate and a variety of spices.
Ingredients
- Chicken - 2 cups, cooked and shredded
- Corn Tortillas - 12 pieces
- Mole Sauce - 2 cups
- Olive Oil - 2 tablespoons
- Queso Fresco - 1/2 cup, crumbled
- Onion - 1 medium, sliced
- Cilantro - 1/4 cup, chopped
- Avocado - 1, sliced
- Salt - to taste
Preparation
Preparing the Chicken
Start by cooking the chicken in salted water until tender. Shred the chicken and set aside.
Mole Sauce Preparation
If you are making the mole sauce from scratch, ensure you have all the necessary ingredients ready, including chocolate, chili peppers, nuts, spices, and herbs. Many stores also have pre-made mole sauce which can be used for convenience.
Preparing the Tortillas
Slightly fry the corn tortillas in a pan with olive oil on medium heat until they are pliable. This prevents them from breaking when rolled.
Cooking Process
Assembling the Enchiladas
Preheat your oven to 350°F. Take each prepared corn tortilla and fill it with a portion of shredded chicken and onion slices. Roll them tightly and place them seam-side down in a baking dish.
Adding the Mole Sauce
Pour the mole sauce evenly over the assembled enchiladas. Ensure all the rolls are covered well, as this will enhance the flavor and moisture of the dish.
Baking the Enchiladas
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until everything is heated through. Set a cooking timer to keep track of the time.
Serving and Enjoying Mole Enchiladas
Once baked, remove the aluminum foil and sprinkle the queso fresco generously over the enchiladas. Top with chopped cilantro and avocado slices.
Enjoy Mole Enchiladas with a side of rice or beans for a complete meal. Sharing this savory dish with family and friends offers a taste of traditional Mexican flavors that have been cherished for centuries.