The ancient coupling of chiles and cocoa provides rich, complex flavor to braised mole beef. For a simple twist on this authentic Mexican dish, spoon beef into lightly crisped tortilla and top with traditional Mole garnishes.

Makes 6 (2 taco) servings.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour 45 minutes

1. Mix all Spice Blend ingredients in small bowl. Set aside.

2. For the Mole Beef, heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in 5-quart Dutch oven or saucepot on medium-high heat. Add 1/2 of the beef; brown on all sides. Repeat with remaining beef. Remove beef. Set aside.

3. Heat 1 tablespoon of the oil in same Dutch oven on medium heat. Add onion; cook and stir 3 minutes. Add water; stir to loosen browned bits in bottom of pan. Add beef, beef stock, tomato paste and Spice Blend; mix well. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low; cover and simmer 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Stir in chocolate. Simmer, uncovered, 1 hour or until beef is tender and sauce has thickened, stirring occasionally.

4. Brush both sides of tortillas lightly with remaining 1 tablespoon oil. Cook each tortilla in nonstick skillet on medium heat 1 minute per side or until tortilla is slightly crisp but still pliable. Drain on paper towels. Spoon about 1/4 cup Mole Beef into center of each tortilla. Top with desired garnishes. Fold and serve.