- Mexican hot sauce (such as Cholula or Hattie B's)
- Tomato puree
- Lime juice
- Salt to taste
- Cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
- **Additional Toppings and Garnishes:**
- Sliced pickled jalapeños or other spicy peppers
- Shredded cheese (such as queso fresco)
- Fresh tomatoes, diced
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- Beef steak torta
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Steps
### Authentic Mexican Torta Tortas Ahogadas: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tortas Ahogadas are a delicious and popular street food in Mexico, particularly in Puebla and Veracruz. These sandwiches are known for their savory meat filling, drowned in a spicy tomato-based sauce that really packs some flavor! Here’s how to make them at home.
#### Ingredients:
- **2 large tortillas (tortas)**
- **100g carnitas or barbacoa** (or any slow-cooked shredded meat)
- **Tomato sauce (salsa de tomate):**
- 3 ripe tomatoes, peeled and chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1/2 onion, finely diced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon oregano
- Salt to taste
- **Shredded lettuce** for freshness
- **Avocado slices**
- **Pickled onions** (optional)
- **Hot sauce**: For additional flavor and spiciness, you can use Salsa de chile en nogada or other preferred hot sauces.
#### Equipment:
- Large bowl
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Mixing spoon
#### Instructions:
1. **Prepare the Meat:**
- If using carnitas or barbacoa, make sure it's thoroughly shredded and warm. It should be soft and easy to eat with your hands.
2. **Make the Tomato Sauce:**
- In a large bowl, add chopped tomatoes, minced garlic, diced onions, cumin, oregano, and salt. Mix well until combined.
3. **Toast the Tortillas (Tortas):**
- Place each tortilla on a dry skillet over medium heat. Toast both sides for about 1-2 minutes or until they become slightly crispy but not too hard.
4. **Assemble the Sandwich:**
- Start by placing a slice of shredded lettuce in one half of each toasted tortilla.
- Add a layer of shredded meat on top of the lettuce, spreading it evenly to cover most of the tortilla surface.
5. **Pour the Sauce:**
- Carefully pour the tomato sauce over the meat so that it covers almost all of it. Be sure not to overload; you want the torta to stay intact without being soggy.
6. **Add Toppings:**
- Top with slices of avocado for a creamy texture and freshness.
- If desired, sprinkle some pickled onions on top for an extra kick.
7. **Serve Hot:**
- Fold the tortilla in half or roll it into a burrito-style to make it easier to eat. Serve immediately while still warm so that the meat stays juicy.
#### Tips & Variations:
- For an even richer flavor, marinate the meat with additional spices like paprika and cumin before cooking.
- Use different meats such as chorizo or chicken for a change in taste.
- Experiment with various types of hot sauces to find your perfect balance of heat.
By following these steps, you can enjoy authentic Tortas Ahogadas right from your kitchen! This dish is not only delicious but also easy to customize according to personal preferences. Enjoy your meal and the rich flavors that come with it!