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turkey mole recipe

Turkey Mole Recipe

Turkey Mole presents succulent turkey pieces enveloped in a rich, complex sauce that masterfully balances warm spices, toasted nuts, chocolate, and chili heat for an unforgettable depth of flavor. This traditional Mexican dish transforms simple turkey into an exotic feast, with each bite revealing layers of cinnamon, cumin, and subtle sweetness that make it perfect for special gatherings or adventurous weeknight cooking.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 335
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Mole Sauce Ingredients:
  • 1 can 14oz/400g chopped tomatoes
  • 1 small onion coarsely chopped
  • ⅔ cup blanched almonds
  • 2 tbsp raisins optional
  • ¾ oz 20g bittersweet chocolate, coarsely chopped
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 1 tbsp sesame seeds
  • 1 tbsp hot chili powder
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • ½ tsp ground cloves
  • ½ tsp ground coriander
  • ½ tsp ground cumin
  • ¼ tsp ground anise optional
Turkey Ingredients:
  • 2 tbsp sunflower oil
  • 1½ lb 675g turkey pieces
  • 1¼ cups turkey or chicken stock
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. **Instructions:**
  2. Begin preparing the mole sauce by placing the tomatoes, onion, almonds, raisins (if using), chocolate, garlic, sesame seeds, chili powder, cinnamon, cloves, coriander, cumin, anise (if using), and ¼ cup water into a food processor.
  3. Pulse the ingredients briefly until you have a thick, textured sauce—don't over-process; the mole should retain some body and character.
  4. Heat the sunflower oil in a large saucepan over high heat. Add the turkey pieces and cook for about 5 minutes, turning occasionally until they're golden brown on all sides.
  5. Pour the mole sauce mixture into the pan with the turkey and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes to allow the flavors to bloom and the sauce to darken slightly.
  6. Add the stock to the pan and bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer very gently for 40 minutes or until the turkey is tender and easily pierced with a fork.
  7. Taste the mole and season with salt and pepper as needed before serving. The sauce should be rich, complex, and coating the turkey beautifully.

Notes

Is Mole Healthy to Eat?

Mole can be a nutritious choice when prepared thoughtfully, offering several health benefits from its diverse ingredients. The sauce contains antioxidant-rich spices like cinnamon and cumin, heart-healthy almonds packed with vitamin E and healthy fats, and dark chocolate which provides flavonoids. Tomatoes add vitamins C and A, while sesame seeds contribute calcium and minerals. However, mole can be calorie-dense due to nuts and oils. When paired with lean turkey breast rather than fattier meats, it becomes a more balanced meal. Portion control is key to enjoying mole as part of a healthy diet.