Take a break from jelly-coated, marinara-poached, and Swedish meatballs, and try these Mexican-inspired snacks instead.
Carson Downing
As someone who travels solo frequently, Ive come to rely on a few tried-and-true tricks.
Bring a portable charger.
Credit:Carson Downing
(MyClutchhas come inclutchmore times than I can count.)
Keep an extra pair of contact lenses and in the carry-on.
That latter principle comes into play when Im dining out.
Luckily, they were also intrigued by thecreative mash-up recipeand stepped up to the challenge.
Then Ill reveal how to make the Test Kitchens totally-doable semi-homemade appetizer recipe using freezer andpantry staples.
Ready to meet your new favorite Mexican flavor-infused snack?
What Are Mole Meatballs?
Youre likely more familiar withmeatballs simmered in red sauce.
Or maybe youre only fond ofIKEA-styleSwedish Meatballs.
(Dont knock it til you try it!)
Speaking of unexpected, I couldnt resist asking about thebananas.
Bananas add an incredible depth to the mole sauce, Thomas says.
They provide a complex background sweetness that enhances the sauces layers of flavor.
It can have anywhere from 40 to 50 ingredients, Thomas says.
A 2-ingredient appetizer that tastes like you fussed over it all day?
Were big fans ofSimeks Meatballs, and adore the mole sauces fromGuelaguetza,Ya Oaxaca, andDona Maria.
How to Make Mole Meatballs
Or try our Test Kitchens quick mole sauce below with store-bought meatballs.
In fact, it may just become your new favorite cold weatherpotluck contribution.
Remove the seeds from the skillet.
In the same skillet, heat1 tablespoon vegetable oilover medium heat.
Stir in2 to 3 teaspoons of chili powder,12 teaspoon ground cumin, and14 teaspoon ground cinnamon.
Cook 1 minute more or until fragrant.
Stir in1 cup barbecue sauce,12 cup chopped bittersweet chocolate, and, if desired, adash hot pepper sauce.
Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce the heat.
Simmer until the chocolate is melted, stirring occasionally; cool slightly.
Transfer the onion mixture and the toasted seeds to a blender or food processor.
Cover and blend or process until smooth, thinning with a little water if needed to reach desired consistency.
(Yield: 1 12 cups quick mole sauce.)
