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Bifanas – Portuguese Pork Sandwiches


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  • Author: Rochelle Ramos, adapted from www.foodmayhem.com
  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4
  • Diet: Omnivore

Description

These savory pork sandwiches are marinated in a fiery paprika paste, then layered onto soft homemade rolls. A simple, satisfying meal.


Ingredients

Scale
  • Garlic
  • Salt
  • Chili paste
  • Beef
  • Red onion
  • 2 tbsp paprika mix
  • Olive oil
  • 0.25 oz (7 g) Active Dry Yeast
  • 5 cups (1183 ml) Warm Water, divided (110-115 degrees)
  • 2 tbsp White Sugar, divided
  • 1/4 cup (59 ml) Vegetable Oil (plus extra for bowl)
  • 1 tbsp Table Salt
  • 8-9 cups All-Purpose Flour (half white and half wheat)


Instructions

  1. For the rolls: dissolve the yeast and 1 tablespoon sugar in 1 cup warm water. Let stand 5 to 10 minutes until foamy. In a large bowl, combine 8 cups flour and the table salt. Add the yeast mixture, remaining sugar, vegetable oil, and remaining warm water. Mix until a shaggy dough forms. Knead on a floured surface for 8 to 10 minutes until smooth and elastic. Place in an oiled bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour until doubled.
  2. Punch down the dough and divide into 8 to 10 equal pieces. Shape into oval rolls and place on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Cover and let rise 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the oven to 375°F. Bake the rolls for 18 to 22 minutes until golden brown and they sound hollow when tapped. Cool on a wire rack.
  4. For the bifanas: slice the beef or pork very thinly. Crush the garlic with salt into a paste. Mix with the paprika mix, chili paste, and a splash of olive oil. Toss the meat in this marinade and let sit for at least 20 minutes.
  5. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over high heat. Sear the marinated meat in batches, about 2 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through. Do not overcrowd the pan.
  6. Split the rolls and pile the meat inside. Top with sliced red onion and any pan juices. Serve hot.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, marinate the pork for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight.
  • If you don’t have homemade rolls, use crusty Portuguese rolls or even good quality sub rolls.
  • Leftover bifanas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet or oven.
  • Prep Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Sandwich
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Portuguese

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich
  • Calories: 450
  • Sugar: 5
  • Sodium: 800
  • Fat: 25
  • Saturated Fat: 8
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12
  • Carbohydrates: 50
  • Fiber: 5
  • Protein: 30
  • Cholesterol: 80