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This Mexican torta recipe is loaded with juicy and tender cochinita pibil from the Yucatan, spiced with achiote, the ultimate Mexican pulled pork sandwich.
Torta de Cochinita Pibil
Who's in the mood for a Mexican Torta tonight? I sure am. We often order up tortas at our favorite local Mexican restaurant.
A Mexican torta, or torta Mexicana, is a Mexican sandwich. It's really a generic term and can be loaded up with different types of meat or combination of meats and other toppings.
A common combination for a typical Mexican torta is the bread, the fillings, and the toppings, much like any sandwich.
You'll find variations with different meats, like spicy chorizo, grilled or roasted chicken, pulled pork, ground beef, seafood, or others. You will also find vegetarian versions.
Toppings vary as well, as you can load them up with any and all of your favorite Mexican ingredients, like guacamole, salsa, hot sauce, and more.
This particular recipe is one of Patty's favorites - Mexican Tortas de Cochinita Pibil - or Mexican pulled pork sandwiches.
Cochinita Pibil is a pulled pork recipe from the Yucatan, where the pork is seasoned with achiote, bitter orange, and other seasonings, then slow roasted until pull-apart tender.
Make yourself a big batch of my Cochinita Pibil Recipe so you can assemble these sandwiches. Pork shoulder is ideal, but it's great with pork leg as well.
Let's talk about how to make Mexican torta pulled pork sandwiches, shall we?
Mexican Tortas de Cochinita Pibil (Pulled Pork Sandwiches) Ingredients
- Bolillo Rolls: Or use crusty white bread rolls.
- Cochinita Pibil: Go make a batch, then come back and make these Mexican tortas.
- Refried Beans: Use canned, or try this easy refried beans recipe.
For Serving
- Pickled Red Onions: For topping the torta.
- Pickled Jalapeños: Optional, for heat and acidity.
- Hot Sauce: I love habanero hot sauce for this.
How to Make Mexican Tortas de Cochinita Pibil (Pulled Pork Sandwiches)
- Prep the Sandwich Rolls:
- Slice the bolillo rolls in half lengthwise. Remove some of the excess bread, if desired.
- Toast the Rolls (Optional):
- Spread a bit of butter or oil on the top and bottom halves of the rolls, then lightly toast them (butter side down) in a hot pan.
- Refried Beans:
- Spread warmed refried beans over the bottom half of the rolls.
- The Cochinita Pibil (Mexican Pulled Pork):
- Load with warmed cochinita pibil. Warm the pork in a pot to medium heat until ready to serve.
- Load Up Your Mexican Torta:
- Top with pickled red onions and pickled jalapeños. Serve with hot sauce and any more of your favorite toppings.
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Recipe Tips & Notes
The Rolls. You can find bolillo rolls in your local Mexican grocery store, or use other soft rolls, like telera rolls, French bread or Cuban bread.
Lightly toast the rolls if you'd like, or spread a bit of butter or oil on the bottom and top half of the rolls, then brown them in a hot pan. Adds a bit of crunch factor!
Feel free to add your own favorite toppings, such as Mexican crema, sliced avocado, guacamole, salsa roja, shredded lettuce, tomato, sliced onions, or others. The sky is the limit!
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Final Thoughts
That's it, my friends. I hope you enjoy this Mexican torta with cochinita pibil. Let me know if you make it. I'd love to hear how it turned out for you, and if you decided to load it up with toppings!
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of bread is best for a Mexican torta?
Bolillo rolls are traditional, but telera, Cuban bread, or French rolls also work well. Choose a roll with a soft inside and slight crust.
- → What is cochinita pibil made of?
Cochinita pibil is slow-roasted pork shoulder marinated in achiote paste, citrus juice, and spices, originating from the Yucatan Peninsula.
- → Do I need to toast the sandwich rolls?
Toasting is optional but recommended. It adds crunch and prevents the rolls from getting soggy when loaded with fillings.
- → Can I prepare cochinita pibil in advance?
Yes, it stores well and reheats easily. Make it a day ahead and warm before assembling your sandwiches for easy prep.
- → What toppings go well with this torta?
Pickled onions, jalapeños, avocado, crema, guacamole, and salsa are all excellent additions to customize your torta.