Torta Ahogada

History

The torta ahogada — 'drowned sandwich' — is the signature street food of Guadalajara, Jalisco, and one of Mexico's most beloved regional sandwiches. Legend holds it was created accidentally in the early 20th century when a sandwich fell into a pot of salsa. The key to its identity is the birote salado, a sourdough-like crusty roll unique to Guadalajara whose firm crust holds up to being fully submerged in sauce. Vendors ladle either a mild tomato salsa or a fiery chile de árbol salsa — or both — over the filled roll, serving it dripping and magnificent.

Ingredients

• Birote salado roll (Guadalajara sourdough roll)
• Carnitas (slow-cooked pork)
• Refried beans
• Pickled red onion
• Oregano
• Chile de árbol salsa (for drowning)
• Mild tomato salsa (optional, for half-and-half)
• Fresh lime

How to Make

1. 1Slice the birote roll lengthwise without fully separating the halves.
2. 2Spread a generous layer of refried beans on the inside of the roll.
3. 3Fill with warm carnitas.
4. 4Top with pickled red onion and a pinch of dried oregano.
5. 5Close the sandwich and place it in a deep bowl or plate with a lip.
6. 6Ladle chile de árbol salsa generously over the entire sandwich until it is fully 'drowned.'
7. 7Serve immediately with extra salsa on the side and a wedge of lime.

Known for it

• Tortas Ahogadas El GüeroAv Río Nilo 4052-C, Lomas del Nilo, 44820 Guadalajara, Jal., Mexico