Mexican Sandwich

Mexican Sandwich Recipe with Tortillas, Spanish Rice, Refried Beans, Beef, and Mozzarella

Region / culture: Mexico | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 25 minutes | Servings: 4

Introduction

Mexican Sandwich, also known as a Mexican Torta, is a delicious and hearty sandwich filled with layers of flavorful ingredients. This sandwich is a popular street food in Mexico and is enjoyed by people of all ages.

History

The Mexican Sandwich has its roots in traditional Mexican cuisine, where tortillas are a staple food. The sandwich is a modern twist on the classic Mexican flavors, combining ingredients like refried beans, Spanish rice, chili, beef cubes, and cheese between layers of tortillas.

Ingredients

1 package (8 oz / 227 g) tortillas
1 box (7.63 oz / 216 g) spanish rice
1 can (15 oz / 425 g) refried beans
1 can (15 oz / 425 g) turkey chili [1]
1 lb (454 g) boneless beef cubes
3 cups mozzarella cheese

How to prepare

First, cook the rice.
Once the rice is cooked, take out a plate.
Place the tortilla on the plate.
Spread refried beans on the tortilla, then place another tortilla on top.
Add Spanish rice on the second tortilla, and place another tortilla on top.
Spread cheese on the third tortilla.
Place beef cubes on the fourth tortilla, and place another tortilla on top.
Finally, add chili and cheese on the top tortilla.
Put the plate in the oven.
Preheat the oven to 450°F (232°C).

Variations

Substitute chicken or pork for the beef cubes for a different flavor.
Add black beans or corn to the layers for extra texture and flavor.
Use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas for a softer sandwich.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cook the rice according to the package instructions to ensure it is fluffy and flavorful.

- Use a variety of cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco for a delicious and melty topping.

- For a spicier sandwich, add jalapeños or hot sauce to the layers.

- Customize the sandwich with your favorite ingredients like avocado, salsa, or sour cream.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Mexican Sandwich with a side of salsa, guacamole, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Preheat the oven to ensure the sandwich cooks evenly and the cheese melts.

- Layer the ingredients evenly to create a balanced sandwich.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use store-bought salsa instead of chili for a quicker option.

- Substitute vegan cheese for a dairy-free version of the sandwich.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the ingredients ahead of time and assemble the sandwich just before baking for a quick and easy meal.

Presentation Ideas

Slice the Mexican Sandwich into wedges and serve on a platter for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Mexican Sandwich with a cold beer, margarita, or agua fresca for a refreshing drink.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Mexican Sandwich in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Mexican Sandwich contains approximately 400 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Mexican Sandwich contains approximately 45 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Mexican Sandwich contains approximately 20 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Mexican Sandwich contains approximately 25 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Mexican Sandwich is a good source of calcium, iron, and vitamin C.

Alergens

Mexican Sandwich contains dairy and gluten.

Summary

Mexican Sandwich is a balanced meal with a good mix of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. It is a flavorful and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed for lunch or dinner.

Summary

Mexican Sandwich is a delicious and satisfying meal that combines traditional Mexican flavors in a convenient sandwich form. With layers of refried beans, Spanish rice, chili, beef cubes, and cheese, this sandwich is sure to be a hit with your family and friends. Enjoy this flavorful dish for lunch or dinner and customize it with your favorite ingredients for a unique twist on a classic recipe.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for a Mexican Sandwich. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Maria in her cozy kitchen. Maria was a fantastic cook, and she loved to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. That day, she decided to teach me how to make one of her favorite dishes - the Mexican Sandwich.

As we gathered all the ingredients on the kitchen counter, Maria began to tell me the story behind this delicious sandwich. She explained that it was a traditional Mexican dish that she learned from her grandmother, who had passed down the recipe to her. Maria's eyes sparkled with excitement as she talked about the memories of cooking with her grandmother in the bustling kitchen of their family home.

I watched closely as Maria expertly mixed the masa harina with water to form a smooth dough for the tortillas. She then rolled out the dough into thin circles and cooked them on a hot griddle until they were golden brown and slightly crispy. The aroma of the freshly cooked tortillas filled the kitchen, and my mouth began to water in anticipation.

Next, Maria prepared the filling for the sandwich. She sautéed onions, bell peppers, and garlic in a skillet until they were soft and fragrant. Then, she added ground beef, chili powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt, stirring everything together until it was well combined. The smell of the spices filled the kitchen, and I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish.

Once the filling was ready, Maria assembled the Mexican Sandwich. She placed a warm tortilla on a plate and spooned a generous portion of the beef mixture on top. She added a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of shredded cheese, and a handful of fresh chopped cilantro. Maria folded the tortilla over the filling, creating a mouthwatering sandwich that was bursting with flavor.

I took a bite of the Mexican Sandwich, and my taste buds exploded with delight. The combination of the spicy beef, creamy sour cream, and tangy cheese was simply divine. I couldn't believe how delicious it was, and I knew that I had to learn how to make it for myself.

Maria patiently taught me each step of the recipe, from making the tortillas to cooking the filling to assembling the sandwich. She shared tips and tricks that she had learned from her grandmother, ensuring that I would be able to recreate the dish at home.

After a few hours of cooking and laughing together, the Mexican Sandwiches were finally ready. We sat down at the kitchen table and enjoyed our meal, savoring each bite and relishing the time spent together. Maria's eyes twinkled with pride as I complimented her on the delicious dish, and I knew that this recipe would become a beloved favorite in my own kitchen.

From that day on, the Mexican Sandwich became a staple in my recipe repertoire. I would make it for family gatherings, dinner parties, and lazy Sunday afternoons. Each time I cooked the dish, I would think back to that warm summer day in Maria's kitchen, and I would be filled with gratitude for the friendship and love that had brought me this delicious recipe.

Now, as I pass on the recipe for the Mexican Sandwich to you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will enjoy making it as much as I have. May this dish bring you joy, comfort, and fond memories of the time spent in the kitchen with loved ones. And who knows, perhaps one day you will pass it down to your own grandchildren, keeping the tradition alive for generations to come. Bon appétit!