Cemita

Cemita is a type of sandwich that originated from the city of Puebla, in Mexico. The name 'Cemita' also refers to the bread roll it is served on, which is a brioche-like egg roll topped with sesame seeds.

History

The Cemita, both the bread and the sandwich, has its roots in the city of Puebla, located in the central highlands of Mexico. The name 'Cemita' is derived from the Nahuatl word 'cemaitl', which means 'bread'. The sandwich is believed to have been created during the French occupation of Mexico in the 19th century, as it shares similarities with the French sandwich, the Croque-monsieur.

Ingredients

A traditional Cemita sandwich is made with a Cemita roll, meat, cheese, avocado, onion, salsa, and papalo, a type of herb native to Mexico. The meat can be a variety of types, including beef, pork, or chicken, and is often breaded and fried. The cheese used is typically a stringy Mexican cheese called quesillo. The salsa can be made from a variety of ingredients, but is often a spicy red or green salsa.

Variations

There are many variations of the Cemita sandwich, both within Mexico and in other countries. In the United States, for example, it is common to find Cemitas made with different types of meat, such as turkey or ham, and additional ingredients like lettuce and tomato. Some versions even include a fried egg.

Cultural Significance

The Cemita is an important part of Puebla's culinary culture and is considered a regional specialty. It is often sold at street food stalls and in local markets, and is a popular choice for lunch or a snack. The Cemita has also gained popularity in other parts of Mexico and in the United States, particularly in cities with large Mexican communities.

See Also

• Mexican cuisine
• List of sandwiches
• Street food