Let’s start here. Yes, I have made mole, so I get how many ingredients and how much effort goes into it. So it’s no surprise that a lot of people just default to the Doña Maria jar. And now, Trader Joe’s is serving up a microwavable version for $7.99 that’s almost even easier. You don’t have to cook the chicken yourself.
You’ll basically have tacos in like five minutes. Or an entree over rice in less than 10. It’s a level of convenience that really can’t be beat. And yet…
I made them for a quick lunch, popping the container in the microwave and then topping the tacos with sesame seeds, a little cotija (also from TJ’s), cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. The dark meat and sauce stands up well to microwaving, and it’s mostly shredded, so nothing’s getting rubbery. The sauce is fine, not too sweet, and I’d say it’s better than the Doña Maria. But!! For me, it wasn’t tasty enough to go back for the leftovers. And that’s kinda telling. I ate the two tacos and that was it.
And I think that’s because I’m spoiled. If we’re only talking taste, NOT the convenience or price, Guelaguetza in LA has fantastic mole starter sauce (black, red or coloradito) you can mail order. IIRC, you just add tomato sauce and the chicken. It’s more expensive, but for me, that’s the answer for easier mole at home. So, Trader Joe’s Chicken Mole won’t be a buy again for me. It’s not bad, it’s just not for me.
Check out some other We Tried’s from Trader Joe’s:
Crispy Potato and Poblano Tacos
Spicy Mexican-Style Riced Cauliflower