Mole, a rich and complex sauce with roots in Mexican cuisine, is known for its deep flavors and multifaceted ingredients. Whether you're preparing a traditional mole for a family gathering or a modern twist for a special dinner, the right accompaniments can elevate your meal. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you create a memorable dining experience with mole.
Classic Sides
Rice
Rice, particularly Mexican-style rice or Spanish rice, is a traditional and versatile side dish that pairs exceptionally well with mole. Its light, fluffy texture and subtle flavor complement the rich and complex notes of the mole sauce.
Corn Tortillas
Corn tortillas are a staple in Mexican cuisine and are ideal for sopping up the flavorful mole sauce. They add a perfect texture contrast and help to balance the richness of the mole.
Refried Beans
Refried beans, whether black or pinto, offer a creamy and hearty addition to your mole meal. Their smooth texture and mild flavor make them an excellent companion to the bold taste of mole.
Mexican Street Corn (Elote)
Mexican street corn, grilled and coated with a mix of mayonnaise, cheese, lime, and chili powder, brings a delicious and tangy flavor that complements the deep, smoky notes of mole.
Grains and Starches
Spanish Rice
Spanish rice, with its seasoned tomato flavor and tender grains, pairs beautifully with mole. Its slight acidity from the tomatoes and the richness of the rice create a balanced plate.
Cilantro Lime Rice
Cilantro lime rice, with its zesty lime and fresh cilantro, provides a refreshing contrast to the deep flavors of mole. Its vibrant taste enhances the overall meal experience.
Cornbread
Cornbread, though not traditional, can be an interesting addition to a mole meal. Its slightly sweet and crumbly texture offers a unique contrast to the savory and rich mole sauce.
Vegetable Sides
Grilled Vegetables
Grilled vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, and onions offer a smoky and savory side that complements the richness of mole. Their charred flavors and textures balance out the complexity of the mole sauce.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Roasted sweet potatoes with a hint of cinnamon and nutmeg add a touch of sweetness that contrasts nicely with the spicy and savory mole. Their caramelized edges and tender interior provide a satisfying side dish.
Mexican Cactus Salad (Nopalitos)
Nopalitos, or cactus salad, is a traditional Mexican dish made with cactus paddles, tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. Its fresh, tangy flavors and crisp texture offer a unique pairing with mole.
Salads
Mexican Avocado Salad
Mexican avocado salad, with its creamy avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a lime vinaigrette, provides a refreshing and creamy contrast to the intense flavors of mole. The creaminess of the avocado complements the mole's rich texture.
Tomato and Onion Salad
A simple tomato and onion salad dressed with olive oil, vinegar, and fresh herbs offers a light and tangy side dish that balances the heaviness of mole. Its bright flavors and crisp textures add a refreshing element.
Quinoa Salad
Quinoa salad, with its nutty flavor and light texture, combined with vegetables and a lemon vinaigrette, provides a nutritious and flavorful side. Its subtle taste allows the mole to remain the star of the meal.
Sauces and Condiments
Salsa Verde
Salsa verde, with its tangy and slightly spicy flavor, offers a fresh contrast to the richness of mole. Its bright green color and zesty taste add a vibrant touch to your meal.
Guacamole
Guacamole, with its creamy avocado base and zesty lime, pairs well with mole. Its smooth texture and fresh flavors offer a delicious complement to the complex mole sauce.
Pickled Red Onions
Pickled red onions add a tangy, slightly sweet crunch that contrasts with the rich mole. Their vibrant color and acidity provide a refreshing balance to the dish.
Desserts
Churros
Churros, with their crispy exterior and soft interior, dusted with cinnamon sugar, offer a sweet and indulgent end to a mole meal. Their warm, sugary flavors provide a delightful contrast to the savory mole.
Tres Leches Cake
Tres leches cake, soaked in three kinds of milk and topped with whipped cream, is a rich and moist dessert that complements the deep flavors of mole. Its sweet and creamy texture is a perfect way to end your meal.
Mexican Flan
Mexican flan, with its creamy caramel custard and smooth texture, offers a light and sweet conclusion to your meal. Its subtle sweetness and rich flavor provide a satisfying finish to a mole feast.
Beverages
Mexican Beer
A cold Mexican beer, such as a pale lager or pilsner, is an excellent choice to accompany mole. Its crispness and light flavor help to cleanse the palate and complement the rich sauce.
Horchata
Horchata, a sweet and creamy rice milk beverage flavored with cinnamon, provides a refreshing and mildly sweet contrast to the spicy mole. Its cool and soothing qualities balance the heat of the dish.
Margaritas
A classic margarita, with its tangy lime flavor and a hint of tequila, pairs well with mole. Its zesty citrus notes and refreshing qualities enhance the overall dining experience.
Conclusion
Mole is a versatile and flavorful sauce that pairs well with a variety of sides, sauces, and beverages. Whether you opt for classic accompaniments like rice and corn tortillas or more adventurous choices like grilled vegetables and pickled red onions, there are endless possibilities to create a memorable meal. Experiment with these suggestions to find your perfect combinations and enjoy the rich, complex flavors of mole to the fullest.
