How to Make a Torta

Nothing beats a delicious Mexican torta or sandwich. For a taste of the real thing, check out the menu at a taco truck or casual Mexican restaurant. This recipe passes on the cabeza (head) or tongue (lengua) options and goes for just ham. Pork works, too. Or for the veggie version, simply replace with avocado. And remember, quality refried beans and a fresh soft white roll are key!

Things You'll Need

  • Lightly toasted, fresh soft white roll (roundish is good)
  • 1/4 cup quality refried beans
  • 1 tbsp quality mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup thinly sliced or shredded Iceberg lettuce
  • 5-6 thin slices white onion (yellow and red are okay too)
  • 3-4 thin slices tomatoes
  • 2-3 tbsp thinly sliced chiles (using canned diced jalapenos are fine)
  • 2 thin slices of ham (optional )
  • 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • Hot sauce or lime juice (optional)
  • Knife

Instructions

  1. Cut open a fresh white, lightly toasted roll with a serrated knife. The bread should be very soft inside, not chewy as some baguettes are. The bread should not be sourdough.

  2. Spread mayonnaise on one side of the open roll. Dribble wine vinegar on the other. Then spread room temperature refried beans on the mayonnaise side.

  3. In any order, add shredded lettuce, chiles, onions, avocados and tomatoes.

  4. Top with a dash of hot sauce, vinegar or lime juice as desired.

  5. Close the sandwich and cut it in half.