How Salvadorians Turn Leftover Turkey Into A Delicious Sandwich

How to make your own panes con pavo

If you already have spicy turkey chili simmering in your crockpot and some leftover meat to use, panes con pavo can be prepared quite quickly. The most challenging aspect of this dish might be gathering all the necessary ingredients, which are typically found at Mexican grocery stores. While Mexican and Salvadorian cuisines are quite different, there is enough commonality that you should be able to locate most of the spices you need.

If you're in a rush, keep in mind that many families in El Salvador have their own variations of panes con pavo, so feel free to make substitutions. For example, you can easily use Mexican bolillos, short baguettes, or Italian rolls for the sandwiches. You might notice that there are no instructions for adding condiments to the bread; this is because the meat and sauce are already bursting with flavor, ensuring the entire sandwich is delicious.

That said, you have plenty of options for traditional toppings for panes con pavo. Crisp, peppery watercress provides a refreshing contrast to the tender meat, as do juicy slices of cucumber and tomato. If you crave a bit of tang, thinly sliced radishes could be just what you need. However, if you have a little more time, we highly recommend making some Salvadorian curtido—a wonderfully zesty slaw flavored with jalapeños, oregano, and tangy white vinegar.