FOOD NEWS
The Creamy Sandwich Spread You're Overlooking
BY JULIA HOLLAND
You’ve undoubtedly used refried beans in tacos, burritos, and dips, but these humble legumes deserve a spot in more recipes including your next sandwich or torta.
The beans not only add a creaminess to moisten bread and textural intrigue but their hearty, earthy flavor complements umami-rich fillings like meats.
Follow Chef Ronaldo Linares and “use refried beans as a spread, add some steak, Mexican cheese, cooked onions, and pickled jalapenos, and you will have a delicious sandwich.”
To make a torta, start with authentic Mexican pan talera, which has a light fluffy crumb, or you can substitute Cuban sandwich bread, hamburger buns, or Mexican bolillos bread.
Add the beans and toppings like avocado, queso fresco or Oaxaca cheese, sauteed veggies, leftover meat, and salsa or crema. Then, toast your sandwich on the stove and enjoy.