Cuisine : Cemitas: How to Prepare this Mexican Sandwich
Cemitas are a beloved Mexican sandwich originating from Puebla, a city known for its rich culinary traditions. Unlike the more globally known torta, cemitas are distinct in flavor, texture, and presentation. The name cemita comes from the sesame-seeded egg-based bread roll used for the sandwich — slightly sweet, fluffy, yet sturdy enough to hold generous fillings.
A classic cemita showcases a perfect balance of crispy, creamy, spicy, and savory flavors. It typically features a breaded meat cutlet (usually milanesa de res or pollo), sliced avocado, chipotle peppers or pickled jalapeños, stringy Oaxaca cheese, and papalo — a fragrant Mexican herb that gives the cemita its unique punch.
How to Prepare Cemitas Poblanas
📝 Ingredients (for 2 cemitas)
For the sandwich:
- 2 cemita rolls (or substitute with sesame-seeded brioche rolls)
- 2 thin beef or chicken cutlets (for milanesa)
- 1 cup Oaxaca cheese (or mozzarella if unavailable)
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 2–4 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (or pickled jalapeños)
- A few fresh papalo leaves (or substitute with fresh cilantro if necessary)
- Refried beans or mayo (optional)
For the milanesa (breaded cutlet):
- 1 egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- Salt and pepper
- ¼ cup flour
- Oil for frying
🔪 Preparation Steps
1. Prepare the Milanesa:
- Pound the meat cutlets thin and season with salt and pepper.
- Dredge in flour, then dip in beaten egg, then coat with breadcrumbs.
- Heat oil in a pan and fry the cutlets until golden and crispy on both sides. Drain on paper towels.
2. Toast the Cemita Rolls:
- Slice the rolls in half.
- Lightly toast them on a griddle or skillet for extra texture.
3. Assemble the Cemita:
- Spread a thin layer of mayo or refried beans on the bottom half (optional).
- Layer in this order:
- Fried milanesa
- Avocado slices
- Chipotle peppers
- Shredded Oaxaca cheese
- Fresh papalo leaves
- Place the top half of the roll on top and gently press.
4. Serve:
- Serve the cemita warm, optionally with lime wedges and a cold Mexican drink like horchata or tamarindo.
🌮 Tips & Variations
- Meat alternatives: You can use carnitas, ham, or even chorizo.
- Vegetarian version: Replace milanesa with grilled portobello mushrooms or fried panela cheese.
- Cheese swap: Use quesillo (another Mexican cheese) or string cheese in a pinch.
Cemitas are not just sandwiches — they’re a taste of Puebla’s soul, combining texture, tradition, and robust flavor in every bite.
Comments
Post a Comment