Panes con pavo, or turkey sandwiches, are a cherished dish in El Salvador, especially during the Christmas season. This hearty and flavorful meal consists of tender slices of roasted turkey nestled between soft bread rolls and topped with a variety of vibrant and savory toppings. In this article, we’ll explore the authentic recipe for panes con pavo, including the essential ingredients and step-by-step preparation process.
Ingredients:
Turkey: The star ingredient of panes con pavo, turkey is typically roasted until tender and juicy. You can use a whole turkey or turkey breast for this recipe, depending on your preference.
Bread Rolls: Soft and pillowy bread rolls, known as “panes,” are used as the base for the sandwiches. Look for fresh bakery-style rolls, such as bolillo or telera, for the best results.
Vegetables: Panes con pavo are traditionally topped with a variety of vibrant and crunchy vegetables, such as:
- Tomatoes: Sliced tomatoes add freshness and juiciness to the sandwiches.
- Lettuce: Crisp lettuce leaves provide a crunchy texture and a hint of sweetness.
- Onions: Thinly sliced onions add a sharp and pungent flavor to the sandwiches.
- Radishes: Sliced radishes add a peppery kick and a pop of color to the sandwiches.
Condiments: Panes con pavo are typically served with a variety of condiments and sauces, such as:
- Mayonnaise: Creamy mayonnaise adds richness and moisture to the sandwiches.
- Mustard: Tangy mustard adds a savory and slightly spicy flavor to the sandwiches.
- Hot Sauce: A drizzle of hot sauce adds heat and depth of flavor to the sandwiches.
- Salsa Criolla: A traditional Salvadoran condiment made from onions, bell peppers, vinegar, and spices, salsa criolla adds brightness and acidity to the sandwiches.
Optional Garnishes: Panes con pavo can be garnished with additional ingredients for added flavor and texture, such as:
- Avocado: Creamy avocado slices add richness and creaminess to the sandwiches.
- Pickled Vegetables: Pickled jalapeños or carrots add tanginess and a hint of spice to the sandwiches.
- Cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds freshness and herbaceous flavor to the sandwiches.
Preparation:
Roast the Turkey:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Rinse the turkey thoroughly under cold running water and pat it dry with paper towels.
- Season the turkey generously with salt, pepper, and any desired herbs or spices. You can use a simple seasoning blend of garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika for classic flavor.
- Place the seasoned turkey in a roasting pan and roast it in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes per pound, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the juices run clear.
- Once cooked, remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for 15-20 minutes before slicing it thinly.
Prepare the Bread Rolls:
- While the turkey is roasting, prepare the bread rolls. Slice the rolls in half horizontally using a sharp serrated knife, being careful not to cut all the way through.
- Optionally, you can lightly toast the bread rolls in a toaster or oven to add extra crunch and flavor.
Slice the Vegetables:
- Wash and prepare the vegetables for the sandwiches. Slice the tomatoes, lettuce, onions, and radishes thinly and set them aside.
Assemble the Sandwiches:
- To assemble the panes con pavo, spread a generous amount of mayonnaise and mustard on the bottom half of each bread roll.
- Layer the sliced turkey on top of the condiments, followed by the sliced tomatoes, lettuce, onions, and radishes.
- Drizzle hot sauce and salsa criolla over the vegetables, according to your taste preferences.
- Optionally, add avocado slices, pickled vegetables, and chopped cilantro for extra flavor and garnish.
- Place the top half of the bread rolls over the sandwich fillings, pressing down gently to secure everything in place.
Serve and Enjoy:
- Once assembled, panes con pavo are ready to be served and enjoyed immediately.
- Serve the sandwiches alongside your favorite side dishes, such as potato chips, French fries, or a simple salad.
- Encourage diners to customize their sandwiches with additional condiments and toppings, according to their taste preferences.
Tips and Variations:
- For a twist on traditional panes con pavo, you can use leftover roast turkey or deli-sliced turkey instead of roasting a whole turkey.
- Experiment with different bread varieties for the sandwiches, such as ciabatta, French baguette, or sandwich rolls with sesame seeds for added texture and flavor.
- Customize the sandwich fillings to suit your taste preferences and dietary restrictions. You can add or omit vegetables, condiments, and garnishes according to your liking.
- Panes con pavo are a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or as a snack any time of day. They’re also perfect for picnics, potlucks, and gatherings with family and friends.
- To make ahead of time, you can prepare the turkey, vegetables, and condiments in advance and assemble the sandwiches just before serving to ensure maximum freshness and flavor.
In conclusion, panes con pavo are a delicious and satisfying dish that celebrates the vibrant flavors and culinary traditions of El Salvador. With tender slices of roasted turkey nestled between soft bread rolls and topped with a variety of vibrant vegetables and savory condiments, these sandwiches are sure to delight your taste buds and satisfy your hunger. So why not give this authentic Salvadoran recipe a try and savor the delicious taste of panes con pavo?
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