Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Chocolate Mole Pinto Beans?
It is a wholesome dish that combines the rich flavor of chocolate with earthy pinto beans and traditional Mexican spices.
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
This recipe is very quick and can be prepared in just 20 minutes.
Is this mole recipe healthy?
Yes, it is described as a healthy and satisfying meal that nourishes the body with plant-based protein and vegetables.
What are the suggested side dishes for these beans?
It is recommended to serve these beans with fluffy rice and a crisp salad for a well-rounded meal.
Can I use cocoa powder instead of unsweetened chocolate?
Yes, you can substitute the 3 tablespoons of unsweetened chocolate with cocoa powder.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it is tagged as gluten-free. It uses Masa Harina, which is a Mexican corn tortilla flour.
Is this recipe vegan-friendly?
The recipe is tagged as vegan, but it contains honey. To make it strictly vegan, you can substitute the honey with agave nectar or maple syrup.
How do I make the mole sauce smooth?
Combine the sauce ingredients in a blender and blend on high until the mixture transforms into a very smooth consistency.
How long should I simmer the sauce with the beans?
Simmer the sauce and pinto beans together on low heat for 15 to 20 minutes.
What type of chile powder is used?
The recipe calls for 1.5 tablespoons of dried Ancho chile powder.
What is Masa Harina?
Masa Harina is a traditional Mexican corn flour often used for making tortillas, and it helps thicken the mole sauce.
How many garlic cloves are needed?
The recipe requires 3 peeled garlic cloves.
Can I use canned pinto beans?
Yes, you can use 4.5 cups of cooked and drained pinto beans.
Do I need to peel the tomatoes?
Yes, the instructions specify using peeled, seeded, and diced tomatoes.
What spices provide the flavor profile?
The flavor comes from a blend of ground aniseed, coriander, cinnamon, cloves, allspice, and black pepper.
How much vegetable broth is required?
A total of 2 cups of vegetable broth is used, divided during the blending process.
Are the sesame seeds roasted?
Yes, the recipe specifically calls for 3 tablespoons of roasted sesame seeds.
What role do raisins play in this mole?
Raisins provide a subtle sweetness and body to the savory mole sauce when blended.
Can I adjust the spice level?
Yes, the amount of Ancho chile powder can be adjusted based on your personal preference.
Should the pot be covered while simmering?
Yes, covering the pot while simmering for 15-20 minutes allows the flavors to meld effectively.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 18 ingredients in this savory chocolate mole recipe.
What type of salt is recommended?
The recipe specifies 1 teaspoon of coarse salt.
Can this be served as a main dish?
Yes, it is versatile enough to be served as either a main dish or a side dish.
What kind of pot should I use?
A nonstick pot is recommended for simmering the sauce and beans together.
Do I blend all the broth at once?
No, you blend the ingredients with a portion of the broth first, then add the remaining 1.5 cups and blend again.
Is there green pepper in this recipe?
Yes, the recipe includes one green pepper that should be peeled, seeded, and diced.
Can I make this if I am not an experienced cook?
Absolutely, it is tagged as an easy recipe that primarily involves blending and simmering.
What is the serving temperature?
The dish should be served warm.
How much aniseed is used?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of ground aniseed.
Is this a traditional Mexican cuisine style dish?
Yes, it is inspired by Mexican cuisine, featuring traditional mole ingredients like chocolate, chiles, and masa harina.