Home › Recipes › Breakfast ›Salvadoran ›Salvadoran Pan con Pavo: Turkey Sandwich with Gravy and Pickled Vegetables
BREAKFAST

Salvadoran Pan con Pavo: Turkey Sandwich with Gravy and Pickled Vegetables

Experience a unique Salvadoran breakfast with this savory turkey sandwich, featuring tender turkey in a rich gravy, topped with vibrant pickled vegetables, all served on a soft roll. It's a flavorful and hearty way to start your day.

✎
HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

01

Prepare the pickled vegetables: In a small saucepan, combine the white vinegar, water, 1/2 teaspoon salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring until the salt dissolves. Remove from heat and add the sliced carrot and red onion. Let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.

02

Cook the turkey: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the thinly sliced turkey breast and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until browned and cooked through. Remove the turkey from the skillet and set aside.

03

Make the gravy: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until a light roux forms. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring no lumps. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy thickens.

04

Season the gravy: Stir the cooked turkey back into the gravy. Add the dried oregano and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm over low heat.

05

Assemble the sandwiches: Slice the crusty rolls lengthwise, but not all the way through. Lightly toast the rolls if desired.

06

Fill the rolls generously with the turkey and gravy mixture. Top with a spoonful of the pickled carrots and red onions. Serve immediately.

About This Recipe

Experience a unique Salvadoran breakfast with this savory turkey sandwich, featuring tender turkey in a rich gravy, topped with vibrant pickled vegetables, all served on a soft roll. It's a flavorful and hearty way to start your day.
Salvadoran Pan con Pavo: Turkey Sandwich with Gravy and Pickled Vegetables
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.
✦
♨

Chef's Tips

For extra flavor, you can add a pinch of cumin or a bay leaf to the gravy while it simmers. Toasting the rolls briefly before assembling adds a nice texture contrast.
↔

Easy Substitutions

Chicken breast can be used instead of turkey. For the pickled vegetables, you can add sliced jalapeños or bell peppers. If you don't have crusty rolls, any soft sandwich bread will work.
▱

Storage & Reheating

Store leftover turkey and gravy separately from the pickled vegetables in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the turkey and gravy gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The pickled vegetables will keep for up to 5 days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve alongside a cup of strong Salvadoran coffee. A side of fried plantains or yuca fries would complement the sandwich perfectly. For a lighter meal, pair it with a simple green salad.

Common Mistakes

Overcooking the turkey can make it dry; cook just until no longer pink. Not whisking the flour and broth thoroughly can lead to lumpy gravy. Not allowing the pickled vegetables to cool and sit can result in less flavorful toppings. Using stale bread will detract from the sandwich's texture. Forgetting to season the gravy adequately can result in a bland dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the turkey and gravy ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the turkey and gravy up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before assembling the sandwiches.

What kind of rolls are best for Pan con Pavo?

Crusty rolls like bolillo or French rolls are traditional, as they hold up well to the gravy without becoming too soggy.

Can I make the pickled vegetables spicier?

Absolutely! Add a few slices of fresh jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pickling liquid for an extra kick.
MORE TO KNOW
The key to a great Salvadoran Pan con Pavo is the balance of rich, savory gravy with the bright, tangy pickled vegetables. The gravy should be thick enough to cling to the turkey but still pourable. Don't rush the pickling process; allowing the vegetables to sit for at least 20 minutes (or longer) ensures they absorb enough of the vinegary brine to provide that essential counterpoint to the turkey.
WHAT PEOPLE THINK

Reviews

☆

No reviews yet

Be the first person to review this recipe.

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS

Made this recipe?

Tell us how it turned out.

Your review will be checked before appearing publicly.