Borracho Recipe

Prepare bacon

Heat a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the bacon strips and cook, turning occasionally, until browned and crisp, about 6–8 minutes depending on thickness. Remove bacon to a paper towel-lined plate and reserve 1 teaspoon of bacon fat in the pan (or discard and use 1 tsp neutral oil). Crumble or set aside whole as desired for assembly.

Cook tater tots

While the bacon cooks (or after), cook tater tots according to package directions until golden and crisp (oven or skillet). For skillet method: add 1 tsp neutral oil to a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat, add tater tots in a single layer, and cook, turning occasionally, 10–12 minutes until crisp and cooked through. Transfer to paper towels and season lightly with a pinch of salt.

Scramble eggs

In a bowl, beat the 3 eggs with 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp black pepper until blended. Wipe the skillet used for bacon (leave the reserved fat if kept) and return to medium-low heat. Add 1 tablespoon butter. Pour in the eggs and let sit briefly until edges begin to set, then gently stir with a rubber spatula to form large soft curds. Cook until just set but still moist, about 2–3 minutes. Remove from heat.

Warm house chili

In a small saucepan over low heat, warm 1/2 cup house chili until simmering gently, about 4–6 minutes. Stir occasionally. Keep warm until assembly.

Toast bread

Lightly butter the bread or sandwich bun slices (if using) and toast in a skillet or toaster until golden and warmed, about 1–2 minutes per side in a skillet.

Assemble sandwich

Spread 1 tablespoon mayonnaise evenly on one slice of toasted bread. Place the warm scrambled eggs on the bread, then layer the crispy bacon. Arrange the tater tots on top of the bacon in a single layer (they may be halved if needed to fit). Spoon the warm house chili over the tater tots (about 1/2 cup), letting it settle between tots. Top with 2 slices white American cheese and close with the second bread slice. If desired, return the assembled sandwich to the warm skillet, cover briefly (30–60 seconds) to melt the cheese and heat through. Slice and serve immediately.

Finish and serve

Cut the sandwich in half and serve hot. Provide extra house chili on the side if desired. Yields one hearty sandwich; adjust quantities if making more servings.