Mexican Ground Beef Lonches (Tortas)

These crispy Mexican-style sandwiches feature seasoned ground beef and fresh toppings stuffed into lightly fried rolls.

Unlike traditional tortas, these lonches are fried whole and slit on top, creating a unique texture contrast between the crispy exterior and soft interior.

Ingredients

For the Ground Beef:

• 1 lb lean ground beef (85/15)
• 1/2 small onion, chopped
• 1 Roma tomato, chopped
• 2 large garlic cloves
• 2 teaspoons beef bouillon powder
• 1 teaspoon onion salt blend
• 1/4-1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• Black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons cooking oil

For the Lime Mayo:

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup Mexican table cream
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice

For Assembly:

• Bolillo rolls
• Lettuce
• Cooking oil for frying
• Additional toppings as desired

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 4-6 sandwiches

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

Preheat pan over medium heat and add cooking oil.

Sauté chopped onions until softened.

Add chopped Roma tomato and garlic, continue sautéing.

Add ground beef and break apart while cooking.

Season with beef bouillon powder, onion salt blend, cumin, and black pepper.

Drain excess fat if desired.

Step 2: Prepare the Lime Mayo

Combine mayonnaise and Mexican table cream in a bowl.

Add fresh lime juice and mix well.

Step 3: Prepare the Bread

Heat oil for frying the bolillo rolls.

Fry rolls whole until exterior is crispy, turning once.

Remove to a baking sheet and let cool slightly.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwiches

Cut slits in the top of each fried roll.

Spread lime mayo inside the rolls.

Fill with seasoned ground beef and fresh lettuce.

Add additional toppings as desired and serve.