Mexican Made Easy Season 5 Episode 7 Holy Mole!

In season 5 episode 7 of Mexican Made Easy, titled "Holy Mole!", host Marcela Valladolid explores one of the most iconic dishes in Mexican cuisine: mole. Marcela begins by demystifying the complexity of mole, breaking it down into its core components: chiles, nuts, seeds, chocolate, and spices. She explains that there are many variations of mole, each with its own unique flavor profile and regional identity.

Marcela then takes us on a tour of a local market, pointing out the ingredients she needs to make her own mole. She selects a variety of dried chiles, including ancho, guajillo, and pasilla, as well as sesame seeds, almonds, and chocolate. She also picks up some fresh vegetables, including onions, garlic, and tomatoes, which will serve as the base of her mole.

Back in the kitchen, Marcela sets to work roasting and toasting her ingredients, intensifying their flavors. She then purees everything together in a blender, creating a thick, rich sauce. Marcela explains that mole is typically served over chicken, and she demonstrates how to prepare juicy, flavorful chicken breasts on the stovetop.

Once the chicken is cooked, Marcela pours the mole over the top, garnishing it with fresh cilantro and a sprinkle of sesame seeds. She explains that mole is a dish that is often served on special occasions, such as weddings or holidays, and that it takes time and skill to prepare properly.

For dessert, Marcela prepares a classic Mexican sweet: churros. She mixes together a simple dough using flour, water, and butter, then pipes it through a star-shaped nozzle to create the signature ridged shape. The churros are fried until golden brown, then rolled in a cinnamon-sugar mixture. Marcela serves them with a decadent chocolate dipping sauce, made by melting together chocolate chips and heavy cream.

Throughout the episode, Marcela emphasizes the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients in Mexican cooking, and encourages viewers to experiment with different mole recipes to find their own personal favorite. "Holy Mole!" is a fascinating look at a cornerstone of Mexican cuisine, and Marcela's passion for the food shines through in every moment.