Oaxaca, Mexico is known for its mole — a rich, velvety sauce comprised of chilis, spices, nuts, fruit, tomatoes, and chocolate blended and served over browned meat. The state claims seven different types of mole, each with a unique flavor. They range from savory-sweet to spicy. While the indigenous dish takes approximately one hour to prepare, the steps are simple and a good way to spend time with friends and family in the kitchen. Cooking mole from scratch requires about two dozen ingredients. However, it's the perfect recipe to make in large batches and pop in your freezer for future meals. As I learned on a recent visit to Oaxaca, no trip to the southern state is complete without taking a mole cooking class. My husband and I enrolled with Me Encanta Oaxaca. Due to COVID-19, they currently only offer private classes. Our chef, Betsaida Lopez Dias, was wonderful! We called her Betsy. She speaks perfect English and her culinary skills are top notch. Me Encanta’s tour includes transportation to and from your hotel, a stop at the local mercado, and an at-home cooking class with Betsy’s sweet Mama and Papa as sous chefs. Their authentic Mexican kitchen and cookware enhances the experience. You’ll enjoy lots of laughs while learning to create this delicious dish. I chose to make almond mole. Other options include rojo, verde, negro, amarillo, coloradito, chichilo and more. You can learn about each one in the cookbook “Oaxaca: Home Cooking From the Heart of Mexico.” Here is how to cook Mexican mole from scratch! Ingredients The ingredients can be found at your grocery store or local Mexican market. Measurements are simple — a pinch of this, a handful of that. It’s how Betsy cooks, adding to the fun! ● 4 pieces of chicken — 2
Oaxaca, Mexico is known for its mole — a rich, velvety sauce comprised of chilis, spices, nuts, fruit, tomatoes, and chocolate blended and served over browned meat. The state claims seven different types of mole, each with a unique flavor. They range from savory-sweet to spicy. While the indigenous dish takes approximately one hour to
