Sunchoke Recipes: How to Ferment and Prepare Mole-Inspired Dishes

Sunchokes, also known as Jerusalem artichokes, are a nutty and versatile root vegetable that can elevate any dish. Their unique flavor profile pairs beautifully with the rich and complex layers of mole, a traditional Mexican sauce that boasts a medley of spices, chilies, and chocolate. In this article, you’ll discover how to ferment sunchokes and incorporate them into a mole-inspired dish that will delight your taste buds and impress your guests.

Ingredients

For the Fermented Sunchokes

• 1 pound sunchokes, scrubbed and sliced thinly
• 1 tablespoon sea salt
• 2 cups filtered water
• 1 teaspoon of your choice of spices (e.g., garlic powder, cumin, or coriander)

For the Mole Sauce

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 dried ancho chilies, seeded and chopped
• 1 dried pasilla chili, seeded and chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/4 cup tomato puree
• 2 tablespoons almond butter or peanut butter
• 1 tablespoon dark chocolate (70% cocoa or higher), chopped
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup vegetable broth or water

For Serving

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges
• Cooked rice or tortillas

Instructions

Step 1: Ferment the Sunchokes

1. Prepare the Brine: Dissolve the sea salt in filtered water. Add the spices of your choice for added flavor.
2. Combine Ingredients: Place the sliced sunchokes in a clean glass jar and pour the brine over them, ensuring the sunchokes are completely submerged.
3. Ferment: Cover the jar with a cloth or a fermentation lid to allow gases to escape. Leave it at room temperature for about 3-5 days. Taste the sunchokes daily until they reach your desired tanginess.
4. Store: Once fermented, seal the jar with a tight lid and refrigerate. The sunchokes will keep for several weeks in the fridge.

Step 2: Prepare the Mole Sauce

1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Add Dried Chilies: Incorporate the chopped ancho and pasilla chilies, stirring for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Spices and Tomato: Add cinnamon, cumin, oregano, and tomato puree, stirring well to combine. Cook for another 5 minutes to deepen the flavors.
4. Blend the Sauce: Transfer the mixture to a blender. Add almond butter, dark chocolate, apple cider vinegar, and vegetable broth. Blend until smooth, adjusting the consistency with more broth if necessary. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Combine and Serve

1. Mix the Components: In the same skillet used for the mole, add the fermented sunchokes to the sauce over low heat, stirring gently to coat them with the mole flavors.
2. Simmer: Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the sunchokes to absorb the rich flavors of the mole.
3. Plate and Garnish: Serve the mole sunchokes over a bed of rice or alongside warm tortillas. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for added brightness.

Cooking Tips

• Ingredient Selection: When choosing sunchokes, look for firm, unblemished tubers. Avoid any that are soft or shriveled.
• Adjusting Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the number and type of chilies used in the mole to suit your heat preference.
• Vegan Variations: To keep the dish vegan, ensure your chocolate is dairy-free and use vegetable broth.

Pairing Suggestions

Pair this mole-inspired sunchoke dish with a refreshing salad or roasted vegetables to create a well-rounded meal. A light Mexican beer or a fruity red wine complements the dish beautifully.

This recipe not only showcases the incredible versatility of sunchokes but also invites you to explore the world of fermentation and mole-making. The balance of flavors and textures is sure to make a memorable impression on your dinner table.

For more recipes, tips, and culinary inspiration, consider exploring resources like Serious Eats or Bon Appétit. Embrace the adventure of cooking and share your experiences with others!

Happy cooking, and don’t forget to experiment with the ingredients to make this dish your own!