ChefXi OfficialA daring bridge between Oaxacan depth and Emilian structure. Hand-folded blue corn tortellini filled with slow-rendered duck carnitas, served in a complex, 24-ingredient mole nero.
Sift the blue corn flour and 00 flour together on a marble surface. Create a well, add the eggs, and slowly incorporate until a firm, indigo dough forms. Knead for 10 minutes until elastic.
If the dough feels too dry, add a teaspoon of water; blue corn absorbs moisture differently than wheat.
Wrap the dough in plastic and let it rest at room temperature to allow the gluten to relax and the corn to hydrate.
Mix the shredded duck confit with a tablespoon of mole and orange zest. This creates a soulful, aromatic center for our pasta.
Roll the pasta dough into paper-thin sheets. Cut into 2-inch squares, place a small amount of duck filling in the center, and fold into traditional tortellini shapes.
Keep the unused dough covered to prevent it from drying out.
In a wide saucepan, whisk the mole nero paste into the duck stock over medium heat. Simmer until the sauce coats the back of a spoon with a glossy sheen.
Cook the tortellini in boiling salted water until they float to the surface, indicating they are perfectly al dente.
Plate by ladling a pool of mole nero onto a warm dish. Arrange the tortellini on top, then garnish with cotija, shaved radish, and cilantro flowers for a vibrant finish.
The key here is the marriage of the earthy, nutty blue corn with the silkiness of an egg-rich Italian dough. The mole isn't just a sauce; it's the soul of the dish. Ensure your duck is rendered slowly to achieve that 'melt-in-the-mouth' provenance we strive for. If you can't find blue corn flour, high-quality masa harina works, but you'll lose that vibrant midnight hue.
Nutrition data is estimated and may not be fully accurate. This is not medical advice — consult a registered dietitian or healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
Prices shown reflect the estimated cost of the portion used in this recipe, not the full item price. Actual costs may vary by store and location.