Cheese Options For Your Torta: A Quick Guide

A torta is a Mexican sandwich that can be filled with a variety of meats, cheeses, sauces, and toppings. The most popular type of cheese used in a torta is Oaxaca cheese, but other options include cotija, panela, and string cheese.

Oaxaca cheese

When making a torta with Oaxaca cheese, it is important to consider the bread, spreads, fillings, and toppings. The bread should be a simple, salted wheat roll, typically a bolillo or telera roll, which is fresh and ideally made on the same day. The bread can be toasted or left untoasted, depending on personal preference.

Spreads and condiments play a crucial role in adding richness and moisture to the torta. Refried beans, mayonnaise, and avocado are commonly used as a base, providing a creamy texture and complementary flavours. Thin rings of raw white onion, tomato slices, and shredded cabbage can also be added for freshness and crunch.

For the fillings, Oaxaca cheese is a versatile option that pairs well with various proteins and vegetables. Common choices include carne asada, chicken milanese, chorizo, or a variety of cold cuts such as ham, turkey, or beef cutlets. The cheese's melting properties help to bind the fillings together, creating a cohesive and satisfying bite.

Finally, toppings like pickles or pickled jalapeños are essential to cutting through the richness of the torta and adding a tangy, spicy kick. The combination of fresh bread, savoury spreads, melted Oaxaca cheese, and tangy toppings creates a delicious and indulgent Mexican sandwich experience.

Cotija cheese

In terms of substitutes, if cotija cheese is unavailable, younger, softer cotija can be replaced by Greek feta, while older, harder cotija can be substituted with Parmesan. Ricotta salata, Romano cheese, or queso fresco are also acceptable substitutes, although cotija has a distinct flavour that is challenging to replicate.

Mozzarella string cheese

When making a torta, the cheese is typically layered with breaded chicken, refried beans, avocado, and pickled peppers. The sandwich is served on a roll or bun, which can be toasted. The roll is often a bolillo or telera, though ciabatta is also an option.

Preparing the chicken for a torta involves pounding chicken breast halves until thin, dipping them in beaten egg, and then coating them with breadcrumbs before frying. The roll is spread with mayonnaise, refried beans, and avocado, and then layered with the cooked chicken, cheese, and peppers. The sandwich is then ready to be enjoyed.

Panela cheese

In terms of the other ingredients that go into a torta, this sandwich is typically served on a roll or bun, such as a bolillo or telera roll, which is flatter and softer than a bolillo. The bread is typically fresh and not always toasted. The accoutrements are added first, which typically include refried beans, mayonnaise, and avocado. Then, the proteins are added, which can include various types of meat and cheese. Finally, the sandwich is topped with pickles, typically pickled jalapeños, to cut through the richness of the other ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 4 bolillos or baguettes
• 1 package of panela cheese
• 1 cup refried beans
• 2 small romaine lettuces
• 1/2 cup jalapeños in vinegar
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 tomato, sliced

Directions:

• Cut the panela cheese into thick slices and brown on both sides on a lightly greased griddle, seasoning with salt and pepper.
• Cut the bolillos in half and brown in the griddle.
• Add the beans to the base, followed by a few lettuce leaves, tomatoes, some panela slices, slices of avocado, and finish with the jalapeño.

Monterey Jack cheese

Tortas are Mexican sandwiches, usually served on bolillo or telera rolls. They are often filled with meat, sauce, and various toppings such as crema, avocado, salsa, and lettuce.

When making a torta with Monterey Jack cheese, it is important to consider the other ingredients to ensure they complement each other. For example, the cheese could be paired with carne asada, shredded lettuce, tomatoes, and onions. The cheese can also help to balance out spicier ingredients such as chile peppers or pickled jalapenos.

To assemble the torta, the roll can be sliced in half and spread with mayonnaise, refried beans, or mashed avocado. The cheese can then be layered on the bottom half of the roll, followed by the meat and other toppings. Finally, the top half of the roll is placed on top, and the sandwich is gently pressed together.

Tortas are a popular and versatile Mexican dish, and the addition of Monterey Jack cheese can enhance the flavour and texture of this sandwich.

Frequently asked questions