Tag: Mole nutrition

According to a study published in MDPI, traditional Mexican mole sauces contain high levels of phenolic compounds, which act as potent antioxidants. So, is mole healthy in Mexican food? The answer is nuanced, as the sauce's nutritional profile depends heavily on its ingredients and preparation, ranging from highly nutritious and packed with vitamins and minerals to a more calorie-dense version.

A single serving of mole can contain anywhere from 55 to over 200 calories, depending heavily on its preparation and ingredients. The wide array of chiles, nuts, seeds, and fats used in this complex sauce begs the question: exactly how many calories are there in mole? The answer is far from simple and depends on what kind of mole you're eating.

Made from a complex blend of nutrient-rich ingredients like chiles, nuts, and spices, mole sauces contain a wide variety of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats. However, the healthiness of the Mexican dish mole ultimately depends on its preparation, as some versions can be high in calories, fat, and sodium.

According to the official ingredient list, the traditional Mole Doña Maria paste contains sugar. This is a key ingredient used to balance the complex, smoky flavors of the chiles and spices, contributing to its signature sweet and savory profile.

Authentic mole sauce can contain a complex blend of dozens of ingredients, and a single serving of traditional mole poblano can range from 164 to over 300 calories, showing significant variability. The calorie content of mole sauce depends heavily on the specific recipe, preparation methods, and portion size, making it a nuanced nutritional question. Understanding the ingredients is key to determining if mole sauce is high in calories for your dietary needs.