Salmon in Pipián Verde

Earthy and rustic with a seductive heat that lies beneath its pale jade hue...that's how I'd describe Pipián Sauce. Well, Pipián Verde, at least. Pipián is another name for pepitas, or pumpkin seeds, which are the base and body behind this sauce. You can also switch out the green chiles and tomatillos with red chiles to make a red version.

While pepitas are the ingredient typically used in pipián sauces, I've also seen versions made with sesame seeds, peanuts, almonds, or even cashews. Served with anything from fish to chicken, pork to vegetables, or smothering enchiladas, they are another National treasure of Mexico - just like mole (in my opinion). Well actually, pipián verde is also known by the name mole verde. But I think that the main difference is that, while I adore the simplicity of a pipián, the complexity of a mole takes your tastebuds up to a whole 'nother level! Mole builds flavors from the addition of even more spices, nuts, dried fruits, and other flavor additions (like this Mole Verde Queretano).