A Cuban Sandwich, or “Cubano,” is a classic pressed sandwich from Cuba that has gained popularity in many parts of the world, especially in areas with large Cuban communities such as Miami. This hearty sandwich is known for its delicious combination of flavors and textures, featuring roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all pressed together in a crispy, buttery bread. It’s a beloved dish for its satisfying taste and the way it represents Cuban culinary traditions.
Servings: Serves 4 people
Appliances/Utensils:
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of Cuban bread or French bread
- 4 tablespoons butter, softened
- 1/2 pound roast pork, thinly sliced
- 1/2 pound ham, thinly sliced
- 1/2 pound Swiss cheese, sliced
- 1/4 cup yellow mustard
- 1/4 cup dill pickles, sliced
Instructions:
1. Slice the Cuban bread in half lengthwise using a sharp knife on a cutting board.
2. Spread butter evenly on the outside of both halves of the bread.
3. Layer the bottom half of the bread with the roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, and dill pickles.
4. Spread mustard on the inside of the top half of the bread.
5. Close the sandwich and press down gently to secure the filling.
6. Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium heat.
7. Place the sandwich in the skillet and press down with a spatula or another heavy pan.
8. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted, using grilling tongs to flip.
9. Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it cool for a minute before slicing.
Tips and Suggestions:
- For a more authentic flavor, use Cuban-style roast pork, which is typically marinated with citrus and garlic.
- If you can’t find Cuban bread, French or Italian bread can be a substitute, but the texture will be slightly different.
- To make it spicier, consider adding a few slices of jalapeño peppers.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with a side of sweet plantain chips or a refreshing coleslaw.
Estimated Time:
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 10 minutes
- Total time: 20 minutes