20-Minute Mole Sauce

Instructions

1. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.  Add onion and sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent.  Add garlic and jalapeño (if using) and sauté for 1-2 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant.  Add chili powder, flour, cinnamon, cumin, and oregano, and stir until everything is evenly mixed.  Continue sautéing for 1 more minute, stirring occasionally.
2. Remove pan from heat.  Add vegetable stock, and stir until combined.
3. Use an immersion blender to puree the mixture until smooth.  Or transfer it in two small batches to a traditional blender, and purée until smooth, being very careful (**see note below) since warm liquids expand when they are blended.
4. Return the saucepan to medium-high heat.  Add almond butter, tomato paste, cocoa powder and sea salt, and whisk until combined.  Continue cooking until the mixture reaches a simmer and the sauce as thickened.
5. Reduce heat to medium-low.  Taste, and season the sauce with more salt if needed.
6. Serve warm.  Or let the sauce cool to room temperature, then refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.