El Sabor de Oaxaca Mole Verde

Milk Street is the only vendor in the U.S. that carries this herby green mole crafted in Oaxaca, Mexico. Bright, nutty and herbaceous, this mole verde packs a pale green hue and a wallop of vegetal flavor. While its starting texture is drier and crumblier than some of the other moles from El Sabor de Oaxaca, the mole cooks up velvety smooth and thick. The flavor is deeply complex (it would take hours to achieve if making it from scratch at home). And while many moles we sampled were too sugary, this one is perfectly balanced and can be sweetened to taste. Our favorite way to use is for braising; thin the mole with stock or water then braise chicken legs, pork shoulder or other protein (and reduce any remaining braising liquid into a thicker finishing sauce). Or, simply dilute with water or broth for a quick sauce for enchiladas or drizzling on nachos with some crema, cotija and crunchy sliced radish. A little goes a long way—the jar contains several servings.