Name: Great Mexican Molletes Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 4 Rolls (bolillo sliced in half lengthwise); 3 tbsp Butter (room temperature); 16 ounce Beans (heated can refried); 7 ounce Cheese (Cheddar & Monterey Jack Shredded Cheese); Salsa (or pico de gallo for serving)

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I learned the Mexican Molletes recipe on a recent visit to Mexico in a cooking class. Molletes are open face sandwiches containing bolillo rolls, refried beans and melted cheese, usually with pico de gallo or additional salsas.

The experience started by visiting a nearby market to collect the ingredients. The market had ripe tomatoes, onions, cilantro along with different chili peppers. The authentic flavors of Molletes require fresh ingredients.

In the cooking class the teacher demonstrated how each element of the dish was made. The procedure involved slicing bolillo rolls in half, spreading refried beans on each half and covering with shredded cheese. The assembled Molletes were then baked until cheese melted and bread toasted. The food was generally consumed with pico de gallo, which was a tart counterpoint to the Molletes.

A significant component of the class was balancing textures and flavors. The soft bolillo bread, creamy refried beans and melted cheese form a base. Pico de gallo adds a tart component to the mix. The dish is generally served with pepper and salt to taste to ensure the natural flavors of the food can show through.

Table of Contents

Ingredients For the Mexican Molletes Recipe

Rolls
Butter
Beans
Cheese
Mexican Salsa

Cooking Instructions For the Mexican Molletes Recipe

Turn the oven on to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Use parchment paper to line a baking sheet with a rim.

To make room for more toppings, cut off a portion of the bread from the center of the bread halves. On each half, spread roughly 1 teaspoon of butter.

Spread bread with 2 to 3 teaspoons of hot refried beans. Add roughly 1/4 cup of Monterey and Borden® Cheddar. Jack sprinkled the beans with grated cheese. After the baking sheet is ready, place the bread halves on it.

Bake for 15 to 20 minutes in a preheated oven, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted and bubbling.

Serve molletes with pico de gallo or Mexican salsa on top.

Helpful Suggestions For the Mexican Molletes Recipe

To prepare authentic Mexican Molletes, begin by selecting fresh bolillo rolls, as their crisp crust and soft interior are ideal for this dish. If bolillos are unavailable, French baguettes can serve as a suitable substitute. Slice the rolls lengthwise and lightly toast them to achieve a crunchy base that contrasts with the creamy toppings. For the refried beans, both pinto and black beans are traditional choices; using homemade refried beans can enhance the flavor, but store-bought versions are convenient and acceptable.

Spread a generous layer of warmed refried beans onto each toasted bread half. Top the beans with shredded cheese; while queso fresco or queso Oaxaca are traditional, Monterey Jack or mozzarella can be used as alternatives. Place the assembled molletes under a broiler or in a preheated oven until the cheese melts and becomes bubbly. Serving the molletes with freshly prepared pico de gallo or your preferred salsa adds a refreshing contrast to the rich beans and cheese.

For added variety, consider toppings such as sliced avocado, pickled jalapeños, or a drizzle of crema. These enhancements can elevate the dish, making it a versatile option for breakfast, lunch, or a light dinner.

Storage Instructions For the Mexican Molletes Recipe

While Mexican Molletes are best enjoyed fresh to maintain the crispness of the bread and the creaminess of the toppings, proper storage can help preserve leftovers. Allow any remaining molletes to cool to room temperature before storage to prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess. Wrap each mollete individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to protect them from drying out and to maintain their structure.

Place the wrapped molletes in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For optimal results, store the components separately: keep the toasted bread, refried beans, and toppings in individual containers. This method prevents the bread from becoming soggy and allows for fresher assembly when ready to eat. When reheating, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Unwrap the molletes and place them on a baking sheet.

Heat for about 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is warmed through. Avoid using a microwave for reheating, as it can make the bread chewy and the toppings unevenly heated. If the components were stored separately, reassemble the molletes before reheating to ensure even warming and maintain the desired texture.

FAQ For the Mexican Molletes Recipe

Question: What type of bread is traditionally used in a Mexican Molletes recipe?

A: A Mexican Molletes recipe traditionally uses bolillo rolls, which are crusty white bread rolls popular in Mexican cuisine. If bolillos are unavailable, French baguettes can be used as a substitute.

Question: Can I use canned refried beans in a Mexican Molletes recipe?

A: Yes, canned refried beans can be used in a Mexican Molletes recipe for convenience. However, using homemade refried beans can enhance the flavor of the dish.

Question: What types of cheese are suitable for a Mexican Molletes recipe?

A: A Mexican Molletes recipe traditionally uses cheeses like queso fresco or queso Oaxaca. Alternatively, Monterey Jack or mozzarella can be used as substitutes.

Question: How can I add variety to a Mexican Molletes recipe?

A: To add variety to a Mexican Molletes recipe, consider toppings such as sliced avocado, pickled jalapeños, or a drizzle of crema. Serving with freshly prepared pico de gallo or your preferred salsa also enhances the dish.

Question: Is it possible to prepare components of the Mexican Molletes recipe in advance?

A: Yes, components of the Mexican Molletes recipe, such as refried beans and pico de gallo, can be prepared in advance and stored separately. This allows for quick assembly when ready to serve.