
Making cemitas is a great way to enjoy the traditional flavors of Mexico. These sandwiches are popular in the state of Puebla but can be found in restaurants all over the country. Cemitas are made with a soft, fluffy roll that is similar to a ciabatta roll. The rolls can be found at most Mexican grocery stores, or you can make your own by following this recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 cup warm water
- 1/4 teaspoon sugar
- 1 envelope active dry yeast
- 3 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
Directions:
- In a large bowl, combine the water, sugar, and yeast. Let stand for 5 minutes, or until the yeast is activated.
- Add the flour and salt, and stir until well combined. Stir in 1 tablespoon of oil. Turn out onto a floured surface and knead for 8-10 minutes, or until the dough is smooth and elastic.
- Place the dough in a greased bowl, and turn to coat. Cover and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
- Cut the dough into 12-16 pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and flatten it into a disk. Place on a greased baking sheet and let rise for 10 minutes.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until golden brown.
- While the cemitas are baking, prepare the filling and toppings. The most popular fillings are shredded chicken, pork carnitas, or beef milanesa. You can also use refried beans, queso fresco, avocado, and pickled jalapenos.
- When the cemitas are done baking, remove them from the oven and top them with your favorite fillings and toppings. Serve warm.
How to assemble the sandwich:

- Slice the cemita roll in half, horizontally.
- Spread a layer of refried beans on the bottom half of the roll.
- Top with your favorite filling.
- Sprinkle with queso fresco, avocado, and pickled jalapenos.
- Close the sandwich with the top half of the roll.
- Serve warm. Enjoy!
Tips on what kind of fillings and toppings to use:
- The most popular fillings are shredded chicken, pork carnitas, or beef milanesa.
- You can also use refried beans, queso fresco, avocado, and pickled jalapenos.
- For toppings, try cilantro, onions, tomatoes, and lime wedges.
Nutrition facts
(per serving):
- Calories: 295
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated fat: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 36 mg
- Sodium: 536 mg
- Carbohydrates: 39 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Sugar: 4 g
- Protein: 16 g
Health benefits of Cemitas

- Cemitas are a traditional Mexican sandwich from the state of Puebla.
- They’re made with a special kind of bread called cemita poblana, which is a soft, round roll that’s usually filled with meats, cheeses, and vegetables.
- Cemitas are a great source of protein and fiber, and they’re low in fat and cholesterol.
- They’re also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.
What is the difference between tortas and Cemitas?
Tortas are a type of Mexican sandwich that is made with a crusty bread roll, while cemitas are made with a soft, fluffy roll.
Tortas are usually filled with meats, cheeses, and vegetables, while cemitas are usually filled with shredded chicken, pork carnitas, or beef milanesa.
Tortas are usually served with a side of beans, while cemitas are typically served with refried beans on the sandwich.
How to store cemitas
Cemitas can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Conclusion
Cemitas are a traditional Mexican sandwich from the state of Puebla. They’re made with cemita poblana, which is a soft, round roll that’s usually filled with meats, cheeses, and vegetables. Cemitas are a great source of protein and fiber, and they’re low in fat and cholesterol. They’re also a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.
FAQs
Q: What is cemitas?
A: Cemitas is a traditional Mexican sandwich from the state of Puebla. It is made with cemita poblana, which is a soft, round roll that’s usually filled with meats, cheeses, and vegetables.
Q: How do you make cemitas?
A: To make cemitas, you will need cemita poblana bread, refried beans, your favorite filling, queso fresco, avocado, and pickled jalapenos. Slice the cemita roll in half, horizontally. Spread a layer of refried beans on the bottom half of the roll. Top with your favorite filling. Sprinkle with queso fresco, avocado, and pickled jalapenos. Close the sandwich with the top half of the roll. Serve warm. Enjoy!