Traditional Cubano Sandwich

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 10 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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The Traditional Cubano Sandwich is a beloved classic that brings the vibrant flavors of Cuba right to your kitchen. With layers of roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, and pickles, all pressed to perfection in crusty Cuban bread, this sandwich is a delightful culinary journey.

Ingredients for Traditional Cubano Sandwich

The star of our sandwich is the roasted pork shoulder, providing a tender and flavorful base. Next, we have the ham, which adds a smoky depth. The Swiss cheese melts beautifully, bringing a creamy texture to the mix. Dill pickles lend a refreshing tang that cuts through the richness. The Cuban bread rolls, or a good French baguette, provide the perfect crunchy exterior. Finally, yellow mustard ties everything together with its subtle zing, and butter ensures the bread crisps up beautifully during cooking.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra flavor, marinate your pork shoulder in garlic, lime, and spices overnight before roasting.
  • Use a panini press if you have one—it's perfect for getting that authentic pressed look and texture.
  • If you can't find Cuban bread, a good-quality French baguette is a solid substitute.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Cubano with a side of crispy plantain chips for an authentic touch. A cold, refreshing mojito makes for an excellent drink pairing, enhancing the Cuban vibes. For a lighter option, serve alongside a simple green salad with a citrus vinaigrette.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cheese?
While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can experiment with provolone for a slightly different flavor profile.
What if I don't have a skillet?
A baking sheet in the oven can work in a pinch; just press the sandwiches down with another weighted sheet.
How do I store leftovers?
Wrap them tightly in foil and store in the fridge. Reheat in a skillet to retain crunchiness.

Traditional Cubano Sandwich Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your skillet or sandwich press over medium heat. This ensures a nice, even browning on your bread. While that's heating up, take your Cuban bread rolls and slice them in half. Spread a teaspoon of mustard on each side of the bread; this step adds that essential tangy kick.

Next, layer on your ingredients. Start with a generous portion of roasted pork, then follow with slices of ham, Swiss cheese, and dill pickles. Ensure they're distributed evenly to get a bit of everything in each bite. Place the top half of the roll on your masterpiece and press down gently to keep everything in place.

Now, spread a tablespoon of softened butter on the outside of each roll. This will help achieve that golden brown, crispy crust we’re aiming for. Carefully place your sandwiches in the skillet or press. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side. You're looking for melted cheese and a beautifully browned crust. Once that's achieved, carefully remove them, slice, and enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Authentic flavors that transport you to the streets of Havana.
  • Perfect balance of savory, tangy, and cheesy goodness.
  • Quick to prepare and satisfying for lunch or dinner.
  • Simple ingredients with a gourmet result.

Ingredients

1 lb roasted pork shoulder
8 slices of ham
8 slices of Swiss cheese
4 large dill pickles, sliced
4 Cuban bread rolls or French baguettes
4 tsp yellow mustard
4 tbsp butter, softened

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat a large skillet or sandwich press over medium heat.
2. Slice the Cuban bread rolls in half and spread mustard on both inner sides.
3. Layer the roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, and pickle slices evenly across the bottom half of each roll.
4. Place the top half of the roll on each sandwich and lightly press down.
5. Spread softened butter on the outside of the rolls.
6. Place the sandwiches in the skillet or press and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!

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