Molletes (Mexican Bean and Cheese Sandwiches)
Ingredients
- 2 cups refried beans
or bean puree
- 1-2 cups shredded cheese
- 3-4 bread rolls
- butter
optional
- 2 plum tomatoes
- 1/2 onion
- 1/2 jalapeno
- 1 lime
- 15-20 sprigs cilantro
- plus more to taste1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1 can black beans
- 1/2 onion
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 chipotles in adobo
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- freshly ground black pepper
- 1/2 cup water
or stock
Directions
- 1
If you want to make the refried beans start by roughly chopping 1/2 an onion and peel 2 garlic cloves. Saute the onion and garlic in a glug of oil over medium heat for 5-7 minutes. Drain and rinse one can of black beans. Add the black beans to the onion mixture along with 2 chipotles in adobo, 1 tablespoon adobo sauce, 1/2 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon salt, freshly ground black pepper, and 1/2 cup water (or stock). Simmer for a few minutes until heated through. Combine the bean mixture in a blender or food processor. Salt to taste.
- 2
If you're making fresh Pico de Gallo start by giving the veggies a good rinse. Chop up 2 tomatoes, 1/2 onion, 1/2 jalapeno, and 15-20 sprigs cilantro. Add to a mixing bowl along with 1/4 teaspoon salt and the juice of 1/2 lime. Combine well and take a taste for seasoning, adding more salt or lime juice if necessary.
- 3
Cut the bread rolls in half and bake them in a 400F oven for a few minutes before adding any toppings -- this will help crisp them up. You can optionally add a layer of butter to each roll.
- 4
Top each roll with a layer of beans and shredded cheese. Bake for 3-5 minutes or until the cheese is thoroughly melted.
- 5
Top with freshly made Pico de Gallo and serve immediately. Enjoy!
Molletes (Mexican Bean and Cheese Sandwiches)
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About this Recipe
Craving a quick, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug and uses ingredients you likely already have? Look no further than these Molletes (Mexican Bean and Cheese Sandwiches)! This comforting dish is an effortless way to bring a taste of Mexico to your table.
Why This Recipe Works
The genius of Molletes lies in its delightful simplicity. By combining savory refried beans with gooey melted cheese atop toasted bread, you create a satisfying, hearty sandwich in just 20 minutes. The option to elevate it with a vibrant, fresh Pico de Gallo transforms this simple dish into a truly memorable experience.
What to Expect
Imagine a crisp, golden bread roll generously spread with richly flavored beans, then crowned with a blanket of bubbling, melted cheese. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures—the slight crunch of the bread giving way to creamy beans and soft, warm cheese. When paired with the bright, zesty Pico de Gallo, made with fresh plum tomatoes, onion, jalapeno, and cilantro, the dish gets an invigorating lift that balances its comforting richness.
Customization & Variations
- Feel free to use any shredded cheese you have on hand that melts well, from Monterey Jack to cheddar.
- While store-bought refried beans work wonderfully for speed, you can also use homemade black beans simmered with garlic, chipotles in adobo, and cumin for an extra layer of flavor.
- If you prefer a milder kick, reduce the amount of jalapeno in your Pico de Gallo.
- A touch of butter on the bread rolls before toasting can add another layer of richness.
Serving & Context
Molletes make an excellent choice for a speedy lunch, a laid-back brunch, or a light, casual dinner. Serve them piping hot, fresh from the kitchen, with a generous spoonful of homemade Pico de Gallo on the side for an irresistible burst of freshness.