Crispy Southwest Sandwiches with Black Bean

Ingredients

Estimated total cost: €25.25 · €4.21/serving

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil (EVOO), (twice around the pan)Est. price €0.12–€0.25
• 1 dried bay leafEst. price €0.02–€0.06
• 1 jalapeo pepper, seeded and choppedEst. price €0.15–€0.30
• 4 garlic cloves, choppedEst. price €0.08–€0.20
• 3 celery ribs with greens, choppedEst. price €0.60–€1.20
• 1 large onion, choppedEst. price €0.40–€0.80
• 1 red bell pepper, cored, seeded, and choppedEst. price €0.90–€1.80
• 3 15-ounce cans black beansEst. price €2.70–€4.50
• 2 tablespoons ground cumin (a couple of palmfuls)Est. price €0.20–€0.40
• 11/2 teaspoons ground coriander (1/3 palmful)Est. price €0.08–€0.18

Steps

1. 1

   Begin by heating a medium soup pot over medium-high heat. Once hot, pour in the EVOO followed by adding the bay leaf, jalapeños, garlic, celery, and onions. Sauté these ingredients for 3 to 4 minutes before incorporating the bell peppers into the mix. Proceed by draining two cans of beans and adding them into the pot. For the third can, pour both the liquid and half of the beans into the pot. Take a fork to mash up the remaining beans in this can before stirring them into the mixture. Season with cumin, coriander, salt, pepper, and 2 to 3 tablespoons of hot sauce. Introduce stock and tomatoes to create a flavorful stoup and bring it to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and allow it to simmer for approximately 15 minutes.

2. 2

   As the stoup is simmering, prepare the monte cristos by spreading a thin layer of pepper jelly or chili sauce on the bread. Create sandwiches by layering 2 slices each of ham, cheese, and turkey. Whisk together eggs, milk, 2 teaspoons of hot sauce, and a pinch of salt. Heat up a griddle pan or nonstick skillet over medium heat and melt butter in it. Dip each sandwich in the egg mixture and cook on both sides for 3 to 4 minutes until the cheese is melted and the meats are heated through.

3. 3

   Serve the black bean stoup in bowls, garnishing each with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of sliced scallions. Cut the monte cristos diagonally from one corner to the opposite corner. Arrange the sliced monte cristos on a plate next to the stoup for dipping and enjoying together.

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• Cultural note

  The combination of flavors in this Southwest-inspired sandwich reflects the fusion of Mexican and American cuisines. The use of spices like cumin and coriander, along with ingredients like black beans and jalapeño peppers, showcases the influence of Mexican culinary traditions. The incorporation of Pepper Jack cheese…

• Seasonal note

  This dish featuring fresh vegetables like jalapeño peppers, bell peppers, and scallions is best made during the summer and fall when these ingredients are in season. However, canned black beans and diced tomatoes make it possible to enjoy this dish year-round.

• Health note

  With high protein content from ham, turkey, and eggs, this sandwich provides a satiating meal. The fiber from black beans and vegetables, along with vitamins A and C, contribute to a healthy diet. However, the dish is high in calories, fat, and sodium, so moderation is key.