New York City Bodega Chopped Cheese Sandwich

1. Prepare Toppings and Rolls: Thinly shred the iceberg lettuce and thinly slice the tomato. Set aside. Split the hero rolls or kaiser rolls lengthwise. In a small bowl, mix together the mayonnaise and ketchup to create a 'bodega sauce' (optional, you can also apply them separately).

2. Cook & Chop the Beef and Onions: Heat a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil. Add the finely diced or sliced onion and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.

Add the ground beef (or beef patties) to the skillet with the onions. Sprinkle generously with Adobo or Sazón seasoning, salt, and black pepper. As the beef cooks, use a sturdy metal spatula or two spatulas to continually 'chop' and break down the beef into small, craggly pieces. Mix it thoroughly with the onions.

Continue to cook and chop until the beef is fully browned and crumbled (about 5-7 minutes), draining any excess fat if desired, though some fat helps with flavor and moisture.

3. Melt the Cheese: Once the beef is cooked, spread it into an even layer on the griddle/skillet. Lay the slices of American cheese over the entire beef mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid or a large metal bowl for 1-2 minutes until the cheese is completely melted and gooey.

Once melted, use your spatula again to 'chop' and fold the melted cheese into the beef mixture until it's thoroughly combined and the beef is coated in cheesy goodness.

4. Toast Rolls & Assemble: While the cheese is melting, you can lightly warm the split hero rolls on the same griddle/skillet (if space allows) or in a separate pan, cut-side down, for 30 seconds to 1 minute until just warmed through (not crunchy toasted).

Spread the prepared mayonnaise-ketchup 'bodega sauce' (or individual condiments) generously on the inside of both halves of the warmed rolls.

Divide the hot chopped cheese mixture evenly between the two bottom halves of the rolls, piling it high. Top with shredded iceberg lettuce and sliced tomato. Place the top half of the roll on firmly.

5. Serve (The Bodega Way): For an authentic experience, wrap each sandwich tightly in parchment paper or foil, let it sit for a minute or two to let the flavors meld and the bread soften slightly from the heat, then slice in half diagonally through the wrapper. Serve immediately and enjoy the deliciously messy experience!