Spicy Pinto Bean and Ham Tortas
If you’re not familiar with what tortas are, they’re a Mexican sandwich made with all sorts of different delicious fillings. The best part is that they can be eaten hot or cold, are extremely versatile and are made with the most incredible bread. If you’ve never had a Mexican bolillo, warm out of the oven, I’m here to tell you that you’re missing out. On a separate side note, a torta can also refer to a cake, and quite honestly, I wouldn’t be mad at either of these dishes.
These Spicy Pinto Bean and Ham Tortas are one of the easiest sandwiches you’ll ever make. It requires practically no cooking and can be made as a quick weeknight dinner, a light weekend lunch or even a perfect picnic treat. The real star of the show however, is the spicy pinto bean spread that starts simply with a can of pinto beans, which you probably already have in your pantry, and if you don’t, then you should start stocking up because these sandwiches are a dream come true.
Spicy Pinto Bean and Ham Tortas
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 medium jalapeño minced
- 1 medium brown onion diced
- 1 tablespoon chipotle in adobo sauce
- 16 ounces canned pinto beans with their juice
- 1/2 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 4 Mexican bolillo rolls or Kaiser rolls
- 2 medium avocados pitted peeled and smashed
- 10 ounces queso fresco sliced
- 2 cups shredded lettuce
- 1 1/2 pounds sliced deli ham
- plantain chips or regular chips for serving
Instructions
- Place a large skillet over medium-high heat with the oil. Once hot, add the garlic, onion and jalapeño and cook until softened, about 2 to 3 minutes. Stir in the chipotle sauce and cook for another minute. Add the beans and their juice, salt, pepper and seasonings and cook until the beans have come up to a simmer. Mash with a potato masher until somewhat smooth. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Split the rolls and toast on a pan with a bit of oil or butter, if desired. To assemble, spread bottom halves with beans and top halves with mashed avocado. Divide the ham between the sandwiches, placing on top of the beans. Top with cheese and lettuce and sandwich together. Slice in half and serve with chips on the side. Enjoy!
