Grilled Cabbage Cemitas

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Tyler Kord of No. 7 Subs in New York City makes this delicious vegetarian version of the classic Mexican sandwich featuring crisp-tender charred cabbage, creamy avocado, shredded mozzarella and a generous helping of hot sauce. Slideshow:  More Vegetarian Sandwiches 

Grilled Cabbage Cemitas
Photo: © John Kernick
Total Time:
45 mins
Yield:
4

Ingredients

  • 1/2 medium green cabbage (1 pound), cut through the core into 1 1/2-inch wedges

  • 1/2 medium red cabbage (1 pound), cut through the core into 1 1/2-inch wedges

  • 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for brushing

  • 2 large garlic cloves, minced

  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin seeds

  • Kosher salt

  • 4 cemita buns, kaiser rolls or hoagie rolls, split

  • 1 Hass avocado, halved and pitted

  • 1 cup shredded fresh mozzarella (4 ounces)

  • 1/2 cup lightly packed cilantro leaves

  • Hot sauce, for serving

Directions

  1. Arrange the green and red cabbage wedges in 2 separate large skillets. Divide the olive oil, garlic and cumin between the skillets. Add 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/3 cup of water to each skillet and bring to a boil. Flip the cabbage wedges, cover and cook over moderately high heat until tender, about 8 minutes. Remove from the heat and let steam, covered, for 10 minutes. Transfer the cabbage wedges to a plate, keeping them intact.

  2. Light a grill or preheat a grill pan. Grill the cabbage wedges over high heat, turning once, until lightly charred all over, about 2 minutes. Transfer to the plate.

  3. Brush the cut sides of the buns with olive oil and grill over high heat until lightly golden, about 1 minute. Transfer to a work surface

  4. Scoop the avocado into a small bowl. Add a generous pinch of salt and mash with a fork. Spread the avocado on the cut sides of the buns. Top with the cabbage wedges, mozzarella and cilantro and serve with hot sauce.

Suggested Pairing

Grüner Veltliner.

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