This hearty Mexican Chili Mole is a comforting twist on traditional stews, combining the deep, earthy notes of unsweetened cocoa with aromatic chili powder and fresh basil. The base of sautéed onions, celery, and garlic creates a savory foundation for kidney beans, white beans, and sweet corn. ItâÂÂs a satisfying, plant-based meal that balances sweet, spicy, and savory flavors in every spoonful. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this dish comes together quickly yet feels deeply homemade. Serve it hot with a sprinkle of cheese for a creamy finish that ties all the robust flavors together.
Mexican Chili Mole
Description
This hearty Mexican Chili Mole is a comforting twist on traditional stews, combining the deep, earthy notes of unsweetened cocoa with aromatic chili powder and fresh basil. The base of saut&# 195;©ed onions, celery, and garlic creates a savory foundation for kidney beans, white beans, and sweet corn. ItâÂÂs a satisfying, plant-based meal that balances sweet, spicy, and savory flavors in every spoonful. Perfect for cozy weeknight dinners or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this dish comes together quickly yet feels deeply homemade. Serve it hot with a sprinkle of cheese for a creamy finish that ties all the robust flavors together.Ingredients
Directions
-
Heat olive oil in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat.
-
Add sliced onions, chopped celery, and minced garlic; sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
-
Stir in tomato sauce, vinegar, unsweetened cocoa, chili powder, and basil until well combined.
-
Reduce heat to low and simmer the sauce, stirring occasionally, for 15 minutes to deepen the flavors.
-
Add rinsed white kidney beans, red kidney beans, and whole kernel corn to the pot.
-
Continue simmering for another 15 minutes, allowing the beans to heat through and absorb the sauce.
-
Remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded Jarlsberg cheese until melted and creamy.
-
Ladle into bowls and sprinkle with the remaining shredded cheese before serving.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 70.2kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 3.9g6%
- Saturated Fat 0.5g3%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 21.0mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 8.5g3%
- Dietary Fiber 2.1g9%
- Sugars 3.8g
- Protein 1.2g3%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
**Dietary Note:** While tagged as Vegan, this recipe includes Jarlsberg cheese. To make it fully vegan, substitute with a plant-based meltable cheese or omit entirely.
**Storage:** Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.
**Variations:** For extra heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper when sautéing the aromatics.