Central American Torta

Ingredients

The Central American Torta differs from its Italian counterpart in several ways. While the Italian Torta is typically a sweet dessert, the Central American version is a savory sandwich. The original Italian Torta is often made with layers of sponge cake and filled with cream or fruit, whereas the Central American Torta features a crusty bread roll filled with grilled meat, avocado, pickled onions, and salsa. The adaptation also incorporates Central American spices and flavors, giving it a unique taste profile. We alse have the original recipe for Torta 900, so you can check it out.

• 4 crusty bread rolls 4 crusty bread rolls
• 500g (1.1 lb) grilled chicken or beef, sliced 500g (1.1 lb) grilled chicken or beef, sliced
• 2 ripe avocados, sliced 2 ripe avocados, sliced
• 1 red onion, thinly sliced 1 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup (240ml) vinegar 1 cup (240ml) vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar 1 tablespoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup (240ml) salsa 1 cup (240ml) salsa
• Optional: lettuce, tomato slices, mayonnaise Optional: lettuce, tomato slices, mayonnaise

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 450 kcal / 1884 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 15g, 3g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 45g, 5g
• Protein: 35g
• Fiber: 8g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   Preheat the grill or stovetop grill pan.
2. 2.
   Season the chicken or beef with salt and pepper, then grill until cooked through. Slice into thin strips.
3. 3.
   In a small bowl, combine the vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt. Add the sliced onions and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
4. 4.
   Cut the bread rolls in half lengthwise and lightly toast them.
5. 5.
   Spread mayonnaise on the bottom half of each roll (optional).
6. 6.
   Layer the grilled meat, avocado slices, pickled onions, salsa, lettuce, and tomato slices (optional) on top of the mayonnaise.
7. 7.
   Place the top half of the roll on the filling and press gently to secure.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Avocado — Choose ripe avocados that are slightly soft when gently squeezed. To prevent browning, drizzle the avocado slices with lemon or lime juice.
• Pickled onions — For a milder flavor, soak the sliced onions in cold water for 10 minutes before marinating them in the vinegar mixture.
• Salsa — Use your favorite Central American salsa, such as salsa roja or salsa verde, to add a burst of flavor to the Torta.

Tips & Tricks

• Experiment with different types of bread rolls, such as bolillo or telera, to add authenticity to the dish.
• For an extra kick of flavor, add sliced jalapenos or hot sauce to the filling.
• If you prefer a warm Torta, you can briefly heat the assembled sandwich in a panini press or oven.

Serving advice

Serve the Central American Torta warm or at room temperature. It can be enjoyed as a satisfying lunch or dinner option. Cut the Torta in half diagonally for easier handling.

Presentation advice

To enhance the presentation, serve the Torta on a wooden cutting board or a colorful plate. Garnish with a sprig of fresh cilantro or a lime wedge for an extra touch of vibrancy.