By: Franchesca Livraghi | @breakthrukitchen

If you’ve ever been to a Puerto Rican gathering, then you’ve probably had Mezcla Sandwiches before. These Sandwichitos de Mezcla are a must-have for parties, and the best part is they’re an easy and inexpensive option that could feed a crowd!

What is mezcla?

Mezcla is the Spanish word for “mixture” and that’s pretty much what the filling is. It’s a mixture of a couple ingredients you probably would have never thought to put together, but trust me once you try it you and all your party guests will be hooked.

The main ingredients in mezcla are:

Swap pimientos for Loisa’s Sofrito Rojo

Traditionally, mezcla is made with pimientos, but swapping those out for a half cup of Sofrito Rojo kicks the flavor up a notch.

Sofrito Rojo has the usual bell peppers you’d expect in the mezcla, but it also brings in tomatoes for a richer flavor. Plus, capers and manzanilla olives add a tangy, briny kick that makes the mezcla even more flavorful and interesting.

Use crustless white sandwich bread

Cutting the crust off the sandwiches is totally optional, but definitely traditional. Plus, the clean edges give the sandwiches a neat look that’s perfect for presentation at parties and gatherings.

The creamy mezcla nestled between the soft, crustless bread creates a deliciously smooth and satisfying bite that will have everyone coming back for more.

How long does mezcla last?

If stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, mezcla can last for up to 3 to 5 days. For the best flavor and texture, it's best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, just give them a good stir before using. You can also freeze the mezcla for up to 2 months—just make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight before using.

I also recommend not assembling the sandwichitos de mezcla until just a few hours before you're ready to serve them. This helps keep the bread from getting soggy and make sure that the sandwiches stay fresh and delicious. 

If you need to prepare them in advance, you can store the mezcla and bread separately and assemble them closer to serving time.