Pambazo (Dipped Sandwich)

Pambazo is a traditional Mexican sandwich, known for its distinctive red chile-dipped bread and hearty potato-chorizo filling. The bread is lightly fried after being soaked in a guajillo chile sauce, giving it a unique flavor and slightly crisp texture. It is then layered with a savory filling, lettuce, cream, cheese, and salsa, making it a flavorful street food favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe offers a perfect combination of textures and flavors — the slightly crisp, chile-stained bread pairs beautifully with the rich and spicy filling. It is satisfying yet easy to prepare, and it captures the essence of authentic Mexican street food. Whether for a casual dinner or a themed food night, pambazos are both comforting and impressive.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Guajillo chiles, stemmed and seeded

• Garlic cloves

• Salt

• Mexican bolillo bread or telera bread

• Chorizo sausage

• Potatoes, peeled and diced

• Vegetable oil

• Shredded lettuce

• Mexican crema

• Crumbled queso fresco

• Salsa roja or salsa verde

directions

1. Boil the potatoes until tender, then drain and set aside.

2. In a pan, cook the chorizo over medium heat until fully browned. Add the cooked potatoes, stirring to combine, and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes.

3. In a blender, combine softened guajillo chiles, garlic, and salt with a small amount of water, blending until smooth. Strain the sauce if desired.

4. Heat a skillet with a bit of oil. Dip each bread roll into the guajillo sauce, ensuring all sides are coated.

5. Fry the dipped bread lightly in the skillet until slightly crisp on the outside.

6. Slice the bread open without cutting through completely, then fill with the potato-chorizo mixture.

7. Top with shredded lettuce, crema, queso fresco, and salsa before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes approximately 4 pambazos.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian version: Replace the chorizo with sautéed mushrooms or soy-based chorizo.

• Spicy upgrade: Add extra chile de árbol to the sauce for more heat.

• Alternative filling: Use shredded chicken with chipotle sauce instead of potato-chorizo.

• Bread swap: If bolillo is not available, ciabatta rolls can be used.

storage/reheating

Pambazos are best enjoyed fresh, as the bread can become soggy over time. However, you can store the potato-chorizo filling separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the filling in a skillet before assembling the pambazos. The guajillo sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and reheated gently before use.

FAQs

What type of bread is best for pambazos?

Bolillo or telera bread is traditional, but you can substitute with other firm rolls that hold up well to soaking and frying.

Can I make pambazos less spicy?

Yes, simply reduce the number of guajillo chiles or remove the seeds before blending.

Is it possible to make the sauce in advance?

Yes, the guajillo sauce can be prepared up to 4 days ahead and stored in the refrigerator.

Can pambazos be made without frying the bread?

Yes, but frying adds flavor and texture. You can toast them in a skillet without oil for a lighter version.

What fillings work well besides potato and chorizo?

Shredded chicken, beef picadillo, or even refried beans are great alternatives.

How do I keep the bread from getting too soggy?

Dip the bread quickly in the sauce and fry immediately to seal in the flavor without soaking it too much.

Can I freeze pambazos?

It is not recommended to freeze assembled pambazos, but you can freeze the filling for up to 2 months.

What toppings go best with pambazos?

Traditional toppings include lettuce, crema, queso fresco, and salsa, but you can also add avocado slices.

How can I make a healthier version?

Use whole wheat rolls, bake instead of frying, and opt for lean protein or vegetarian fillings.

What drinks pair well with pambazos?

Aguas frescas such as horchata or tamarindo, or a cold Mexican beer, pair wonderfully.

Conclusion

Pambazos are a delicious celebration of Mexican street food, combining a flavorful chile-dipped bread with a hearty, savory filling. Versatile and satisfying, they can be adapted to suit different tastes and spice levels. With their vibrant appearance and bold flavors, pambazos are sure to become a favorite at your table

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