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Torta Ahogada

A delicious Mexican sandwich originating from Guadalajara, filled with shredded pork and drenched in a spicy tomato chile sauce, perfect for a warm, flavorful meal.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course, Sandwich
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 600
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the pickled onions
  • 1 small onion, sliced thin Use red or white onion.
  • 1 cup vinegar (white or apple cider)
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
For the sauce
  • 4-5 whole roma tomatoes
  • 1 small white onion
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 2-6 whole dried chile de arbol Adjust based on heat preference.
  • 1-2 tbsp tomato paste Optional, for richer flavor.
  • 1-2 cups broth (chicken or pork) or water
  • to taste salt
Main ingredients
  • 4 rolls birote salado or crusty French roll Sturdy bread is essential.
  • 2-3 cups shredded pork (carnitas style or leftover roasted pork)
  • optional refried beans, sliced avocado, extra onions For toppings as desired.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Make the pickled onions by placing sliced onions in a jar or bowl. Add vinegar, water, salt, and oregano. Let it sit while you do everything else.
  2. Toast the dried chile de arbol in a dry pan for about 10 to 20 seconds per side, being careful not to burn them.
Making the Sauce
  1. Simmer the tomatoes, white onion, and garlic in water for about 10 minutes until soft.
  2. Blend the softened tomato mixture, toasted chiles, a splash of broth, and salt until smooth. Add tomato paste if desired.
  3. Pour the sauce into a pot and simmer for an additional 10 minutes, adjusting salt and heat to taste.
Assembling the Sandwich
  1. Slice the roll and fill it with warm shredded pork and optional refried beans.
  2. Place the sandwich on a plate or shallow bowl and pour hot sauce over the top, then add pickled onions.
  3. Enjoy immediately, using hands or fork as preferred.

Notes

Do not fully drown the sandwich until you are ready to eat to prevent it from collapsing. Optional toppings like sliced jalapenos can add extra heat.