Torta de jamon (Mexican-style ham sandwich) recipe

June 22, 12:48 AMChicago Mexican Food ExaminerAmy Hernandez

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Torta de jamon

Although a torta de jamon in general terms is a Mexican-style ham sandwich, a more accurate description might be to say it is one of the best darn ham sandwiches you will ever taste. My first encounter with this torta was back in 2004.  We served it at the Feria de Salud (Health Fair) held at Wheaton Bible Church as a snack for the visitors. 

What amazed me the most was how the multiple layers of flavor all came together to create a surprisingly irresistible effect.  It sounds crazy, but even though you may have tasted all the separate elements before, it becomes a completely new experience when they are eaten together.  I still have marked memories of my first discovery of this delicious sandwich and the culinary impact it made on me.
 

Torta de jamon

Ingredients:

• 1 bolillo or telera (common Mexican breads specially used for tortas)

• 2 Tb canned refried black beans (or homemade, but must be VERY dry and paste-like)

• 3 thin slices of Polish (or other good quality) ham

• 2 -1/4 inch thick slices of panela cheese

• ½ cup shredded lettuce

• 4 thin slices of roma tomato

• 3 -1/4 inch slices of ripe avocado

• 2 slices of pickled jalapeño chile strips (I prefer La Morena brand)

• 1 Tb mayonnaise or Mexican crema

Directions:

Slice bolillo or telera in half length-wise as for making a sandwich.  Spread bottom piece of bread with refried beans. Next place ham slices on top to form a layer. Follow with cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and chile strips.  Spread top piece of bread with mayonnaise or Mexican crema.  Serve immediately. Yield: 1 sandwich

For more information about tortas:

Tortas
La Torta Mexican Deli's Carne Asada Tortas
Tortas – The Mexican Sandwich
 

More Summer Cookbook recipes from the Chicago Mexican Food Examiner:

Licuado de mamey
Tacos de lomo encebollado
Chiles toreados

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