How to Make Poultry-Based Mexican Cemitas Poblana
Cemitas Poblana, a delightful Mexican sandwich originating from Puebla, is renowned for its rich flavors and unique ingredients. Making a poultry-based variety of this classic dish brings a lighter twist while retaining its traditional essence. Follow this easy recipe to create your own Cemitas Poblana with chicken or turkey, perfect for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
To make delicious poultry-based Cemitas Poblana, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 pieces of bolillo rolls or Mexican cemita bread
- 1 cup cooked shredded chicken or turkey
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup crumbled queso fresco or panela cheese
- 1/2 cup pickled jalapeños
- 1/4 cup refried beans (optional)
- Fresh cilantro leaves
- Olive oil or butter for grilling
- Salt and pepper to taste
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Prepare the Bread
Start by slicing the bolillo rolls or cemita bread in half. If you’re using bolillo rolls, make sure to keep them relatively thick to hold all the delicious fillings. Lightly toast the bread in a skillet with a little olive oil or butter until golden brown.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken or Turkey
If you’re using leftover roasted chicken or turkey, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces. For freshly cooked poultry, season it with salt, pepper, and a dash of lime juice for added flavor. You can also add spices like cumin or chili powder for an extra kick.
Step 3: Assemble the Cemitas Poblana
Spread a layer of refried beans on the bottom half of each toasted bolillo roll. This step is optional, but it adds a creamy texture that complements the other ingredients.
Next, layer the shredded poultry evenly over the beans. Top it with sliced avocado and crumbled queso fresco or panela cheese. Add pickled jalapeños according to your heat preference and finish with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro leaves.
Step 4: Close and Grill the Sandwich
Place the top half of the bread over the fillings to close the sandwich. Press down gently. Heat a skillet over medium heat and grill the assembled cemitas for about 2-3 minutes on each side or until the bread is crispy and the cheese has melted slightly. Use a weight or another pan to press down while grilling if you wish to achieve a panini-like texture.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your poultry-based Cemitas Poblana warm, alongside a side of salsa and fresh lime wedges. This dish pairs wonderfully with a refreshing drink, such as agua fresca or a light beer.
Pro Tips
- Experiment with different types of cheese for unique flavors.
- Add other toppings like sliced tomatoes or radishes for extra crunch and freshness.
- For a vegetarian version, replace the poultry with flavored tofu or mushrooms.
Enjoy making and savoring your homemade poultry-based Cemitas Poblana, a dish that embodies the heart and soul of Mexican cuisine!