Tacos de Res en Mole offer a scrumptious fusion of tender beef and rich mole sauce. Perfect for those who love the complexity of mole but want to explore beyond the classic chicken pairing, these tacos provide a hearty and flavorful dining experience.
Key Takeaways
- Who This Meal Appeals To: Lovers of traditional Mexican cuisine, beef enthusiasts, and anyone interested in a unique taco filling.
- Estimated Duration: Prep time: 20 minutes, Cooking time: 60 minutes.
- Nutrition Facts: Approximately 350-400 calories per serving, rich in protein, iron, and B vitamins.
About this Recipe
Tacos de Res en Mole showcase beef, usually a stew cut, that is cooked until tender and then simmered in a mole sauce. The sauce, traditionally made with a blend of chilies, spices, and chocolate, complements the beef’s richness, creating a filling that’s bursting with flavor.
Equipment Required
- Large pot or Dutch oven for cooking beef
- Blender for making mole sauce
- Mixing bowls
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
Ingredients
- Corn tortillas: 12 pieces
- Beef (stew cut or chuck): 1.5 lbs, cut into small pieces
- For the mole sauce:
- Dried chilies (ancho, pasilla, or guajillo): 4-5, stemmed and seeded
- Chocolate: 1 oz
- Almonds: 1/4 cup
- Tomatoes: 2 medium, chopped
- Garlic cloves: 2
- Cinnamon: 1 teaspoon
- Chicken or beef broth: 2 cups
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Optional garnishes: diced onions, chopped cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions
- Prepare Mole Sauce: Toast the dried chilies in a dry skillet until fragrant. Soak them in hot water for 15 minutes. In a blender, combine the softened chilies, chocolate, almonds, tomatoes, garlic, cinnamon, and 1 cup of broth. Blend until smooth.
- Cook Beef: In a large pot, add the beef and enough water to cover. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the beef is tender, about 30-40 minutes.
- Combine with Mole: Drain the beef and return it to the pot. Add the blended mole sauce, remaining broth, and salt. Simmer for an additional 20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Warm Tortillas: While the beef is simmering, warm the corn tortillas on a griddle or skillet until they become pliable.
- Assemble Tacos: Spoon the beef mole mixture onto each tortilla.
- Garnish and Serve: Add optional garnishes like diced onions, chopped cilantro, or a squeeze of lime.
Side Dishes
- Mexican rice with a touch of saffron
- Refried beans
- Sliced avocado or guacamole
Storage Options
- Store leftover beef mole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
- Reheat gently on the stove before assembling new tacos.
Ingredient Substitutes
- Chicken or turkey can be used in place of beef for a lighter option.
- Peanut butter can replace almonds for a different nutty element in the mole.
Alternatives to this Meal
- Tacos de Pollo en Mole Verde: Tacos featuring chicken in a green mole sauce made with tomatillos and green chilies.
- Tacos de Carnitas: Tacos filled with slow-cooked, shredded pork.
For help finding your ideal taco, please consider taking a look at this comprehensive beef taco guide. From here you will be able to identify which tacos suit your needs most.
Conclusion
Tacos de Res en Mole offer a rich and complex flavor experience, combining the hearty texture of beef with the aromatic and multi-layered mole sauce. These tacos are perfect for those looking to venture beyond the usual taco fillings and experience the deep, traditional flavors of Mexican cuisine. Happy cooking!
