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Cuban Sandwiches

Cuban Sandwiches

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This authentic Cuban Sandwich recipe delivers a perfect blend of smoky, tangy, and savory flavors layered between crispy Cuban bread. Featuring tender roasted pork, smoky ham, melted Swiss cheese, tangy dill pickles, and yellow mustard, each pressed sandwich offers a crispy crust and melty, satisfying bite. Ideal for lunch, dinner, or a flavorful snack, this recipe brings Cuban tradition right to your kitchen with simple ingredients and classic technique.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread

  • 1 loaf Cuban bread (about 8 inches long, sliced horizontally)
  • Butter (for toasting, about 2 tablespoons)

Meats

  • Roasted pork, thinly sliced (about 6 ounces; marinated with garlic and citrus if not pre-marinated)
  • Ham, thinly sliced (about 4 ounces)

Cheese and Condiments

  • Swiss cheese slices (4-6 slices)
  • Yellow mustard (about 2 tablespoons)
  • Dill pickles, thinly sliced (about 1/4 cup)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meats: Slice the roasted pork and ham into thin, even layers. If your pork is not already marinated, apply a quick garlic and citrus rub to infuse traditional Cuban flavors, ensuring juicy and flavorful meat.
  2. Slice the Bread: Cut the Cuban bread into sandwich-sized pieces, typically 8 inches in length. Slice each piece horizontally to create a sturdy base for your sandwich layers.
  3. Layer the Ingredients: Spread a thin layer of yellow mustard on both the top and bottom halves of the bread. Begin layering with the roasted pork, followed by the ham, then Swiss cheese slices, and finish with dill pickle slices to balance flavors and add texture.
  4. Butter the Outside of the Bread: Lightly spread butter on the outer sides of the bread to help achieve a crispy, golden crust when cooking.
  5. Press and Cook: Use a sandwich press or a heavy skillet with a weighted object on top to firmly press the sandwich. Cook over medium heat for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until the bread is toasted golden and the cheese is fully melted.
  6. Slice and Serve: Remove the sandwich from heat and let it rest briefly. Slice diagonally and serve immediately to enjoy the melty cheese and crisp bread at their best.

Notes

  • Use fresh Cuban bread for authentic texture and flavor; avoid substituting with regular sandwich bread.
  • Slice meats and pickles thinly and evenly to ensure balanced bites throughout.
  • Press the sandwich firmly to create a crispy crust and melt the cheese properly.
  • Avoid overstuffing the sandwich to maintain crispiness and prevent messiness.
  • Keep ingredients cold, especially meat and pickles, to add refreshing contrast after cooking.

Nutrition