Butifarra Sandwich

Name: Butifarra Sandwich
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 4 to 6
Cuisine: Peruvian
Ingredients: 4 rolls; 200 g jamón del país; salsa criolla to top; 1 handful lettuce; to taste fine sea salt

25 minutes prep 45 minutes cook Serves 4 to 6 meat

Butifarra Sandwich traces its origins to the bustling streets of Lima, where jamón shops perfect their craft with an eye for detail and a generous hand with salt. This home version captures that essence, bringing the street food favorite into the family kitchen. Crafted with care, the sandwich is a staple for casual dinners or late afternoon snacks, offering a taste of everyday Peruvian life.

Bite into a Butifarra Sandwich and savor the tender jamón del país, its saltiness balanced by the freshness of crisp lettuce. The salsa criolla adds a tangy crunch that complements the soft roll, making each bite a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. This dish is all about simplicity and satisfaction, a true reflection of its roots.

Ingredients

4rolls
200 gjamón del país
salsa criollato top
1 handfullettuce
to tastefine sea salt

Method

Begin by slicing the 4 rolls in half horizontally and set them aside. Ensure the rolls are fresh and soft, as they will provide the perfect base for the sandwich. Next, prepare the salsa criolla by thinly slicing red onions and mixing them with lime juice, salt, and chopped cilantro. This will add a fresh, tangy flavor to your sandwich.
Take the 200 g of jamón del país and slice it into thin pieces, about 1/8 inch thick. This will allow the flavors to meld well with the other ingredients. If the jamón is not pre-cooked, you can briefly warm it in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes until it is heated through and slightly browned on the edges, which enhances its flavor.
While the jamón is warming, wash and dry a handful of lettuce leaves. Tear them into sandwich-sized pieces. The lettuce adds a crisp texture and freshness to the sandwich, balancing the richness of the jamón.
Once the jamón is ready, start assembling the sandwiches. Place a layer of lettuce on the bottom half of each roll. This will prevent the bread from becoming soggy and add a nice crunch.
Layer the warm jamón slices evenly over the lettuce. The warmth of the jamón will slightly wilt the lettuce, enhancing its flavor without losing its crunch.
Top the jamón with a generous spoonful of salsa criolla. The acidity from the lime juice in the salsa will cut through the richness of the jamón, providing a balanced taste.
Finish by placing the top half of the roll over the salsa criolla. Press down gently to ensure everything stays in place. Season to taste with fine sea salt, if needed, to enhance the flavors.
Serve the Butifarra Sandwich immediately while the jamón is still warm and the rolls are fresh. This sandwich is best enjoyed with friends or family, embodying the spirit of Peruvian home cooking.