Mulitas: A Delicious Mexican Tortilla Sandwich

I remember the first time I tried mulitas at a small taco stand in Mexico. The aroma of grilled tortillas filled the air, and as the vendor placed the sizzling sandwich in front of me, I was instantly captivated. With its crispy tortillas, melted cheese, and savory filling, it was love at first bite. If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious dish to make at home, mulitas are the perfect choice.

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Mulitas are a popular Mexican street food, often enjoyed as a quick snack or satisfying meal. They are incredibly easy to make, which makes them an ideal recipe for beginner cooks. The combination of grilled tortillas, juicy meat (chicken or beef), and melted cheese will leave you craving more. Best of all, the ingredients are flexible, so you can make them your own with various fillings and toppings. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just getting started in the kitchen, mulitas are a great way to explore authentic Mexican flavors.

In this recipe, I’ll walk you through the process of creating these mouthwatering tortilla sandwiches from start to finish. Let’s dive in!

Ingredients and Preparation:

To make mulitas, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients. You don’t need to spend hours in the kitchen or look for hard-to-find items, making this dish perfect for beginners.

Ingredients (for 4 servings):

• 8 small corn tortillas (you can use flour tortillas if you prefer)
• 1 lb chicken breast or beef sirloin (your choice of protein)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or Oaxaca cheese if you can find it)
• 1/2 cup salsa verde or your favorite salsa
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (optional, for extra heat)
• 1 teaspoon cumin powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional garnishes:

• Fresh cilantro (chopped)
• Lime wedges
• Sour cream
• Avocado slices

Ingredient Alternatives:

• Meat: If you prefer beef, use thinly sliced skirt steak, flank steak, or ground beef. You can also use pork (but since you prefer chicken or beef, I suggest substituting that).
• Cheese: Oaxaca cheese is the traditional cheese used for mulitas, but mozzarella is a great alternative if you can’t find it.
• Salsa: You can substitute the salsa verde with a red salsa or even pico de gallo if you prefer a chunkier topping.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Making mulitas is as simple as following a few easy steps. Let’s break it down:

1. Prepare the Meat:
   • If you’re using chicken breast, cut it into thin strips or cubes. For beef, slice the meat thinly against the grain.
   • Season your chicken or beef with cumin powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This step will ensure your meat has a great base of flavor.
2. Cook the Meat:
   • Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil.
   • Add the seasoned chicken or beef to the pan and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through (about 5-7 minutes for chicken and 4-6 minutes for beef). Make sure the meat reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for chicken or 145°F for beef for safety.
   • Once done, remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Grill the Tortillas:
   • In the same skillet, heat the tortillas, one at a time, over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes on each side, just until they’re warm and slightly crispy. You can also heat them directly over a gas flame for a charred effect if you like.
   • Once all the tortillas are grilled, set them aside on a clean surface or plate.
4. Assemble the Mulitas:
   • On a tortilla, add a layer of the cooked meat, followed by a generous amount of shredded mozzarella or Oaxaca cheese. You can also sprinkle some finely chopped onions and jalapeños for extra flavor.
   • Top the tortilla with another grilled tortilla, creating a sandwich-like structure.
5. Grill the Mulitas:
   • Now it’s time to grill your mulita! Heat the skillet again over medium heat and add a little olive oil if necessary.
   • Place the tortilla sandwich in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula until the tortillas are golden brown and the cheese is melted inside.
   • Flip carefully, so the cheese stays inside and the tortilla crisps up perfectly.
6. Serve and Garnish:
   • Once your mulitas are crispy and golden, remove them from the skillet.
   • Cut each mulita into halves or quarters for easy serving.
   • Garnish with chopped cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and a dollop of sour cream if desired. You can also add slices of avocado for extra richness.

Beginner Tips and Notes:

Making mulitas is straightforward, but here are some extra tips to ensure your first attempt is a success:

• Meat doneness: To check if your chicken is fully cooked, cut a piece in the middle—if the juices run clear, it’s done. For beef, look for a slight browning on the outside and a warm, pink center.
• Avoiding overcooking veggies: If you add veggies like onions or bell peppers, be careful not to overcook them. A slight crunch adds a wonderful texture to the dish. If they cook too quickly, lower the heat slightly.
• Grilling tortillas: If you don’t have a grill pan, you can toast the tortillas in a regular skillet or even on a griddle. Just make sure they’re warm enough to become crispy when you press the mulitas together.
• Cheese melting: If you’re using mozzarella, ensure it’s shredded finely so it melts smoothly and doesn’t form large clumps.

Serving Suggestions:

Mulitas are filling on their own, but if you’re looking to turn your meal into a feast, here are a few ideas for side dishes:

• Mexican Rice: This flavorful, fragrant rice is a perfect complement to the mulitas and adds a hearty touch to the meal.
• Refried Beans: Serve a side of refried beans, either traditional pinto beans or black beans, for a rich, creamy addition.
• Fresh Salad: A simple salad with lettuce, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a zesty lime dressing will balance the richness of the mulitas.
• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole with crunchy tortilla chips makes for a perfect appetizer to serve with mulitas.
• Salsas: A variety of salsas—whether mild or spicy—can take your mulitas to the next level. Try a smoky chipotle salsa or a tangy tomatillo salsa for extra flavor.

Storage Tips for Leftovers:

• If you have leftover mulitas, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat them in a skillet or on a griddle to restore their crispiness.
• For the best results, freeze the unassembled tortillas and cooked meat separately. Assemble and grill the mulitas fresh when you’re ready to eat.

Conclusion:

Mulitas are an absolute treat—easy to make, bursting with flavor, and perfect for beginner cooks. Whether you’re craving a quick meal or planning to impress your friends with authentic Mexican street food, this dish won’t disappoint. The combination of warm tortillas, juicy meat, melted cheese, and your favorite toppings creates a satisfying experience that’s both comforting and delicious.

I encourage you to try making mulitas at home and experiment with different fillings, cheeses, and salsas to find your perfect combination. Don’t forget to share your mulita creations in the comments below—I’d love to hear about your culinary adventures! Enjoy every bite!