A rich, nutty mole sauce made with toasted peanuts, dried chiles, and spices. This protein-rich family sauce offers a creamier, more accessible entry point to Mexico's mole traditions.
Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toast the peanuts, stirring frequently until golden and fragrant (about 4 minutes). Remove and set aside.
In the same skillet, add the dried guajillo and pasilla chiles. Toast them for about 1 minute per side, just until puffed and fragrant. Be careful not to burn them. Transfer to a bowl, cover with hot water, and let soak for 10 minutes. Drain and remove stems/seeds.
Add remaining oil to the pan. Sauté onion and garlic over medium heat for 3–4 minutes, until softened. Add the tomato and torn corn tortilla, cooking another 3 minutes until tomato is blistered.
In a blender, combine soaked chiles, toasted peanuts, sautéed vegetables, cumin, cinnamon, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth. Blend until completely smooth.
Pour the sauce back into the skillet on medium-low heat. Stir in the remaining chicken broth and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Adjust seasoning and consistency as desired.