The Cuban Sandwich, or “Cubano,” is a deliciously pressed sandwich that originates from the vibrant streets of Cuba and has become a staple in Cuban-American communities, especially in Florida. This sandwich is a perfect blend of savory and tangy flavors, featuring layers of roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all nestled between slices of Cuban bread. When pressed, the bread becomes crispy on the outside while the cheese melts and binds everything together inside. The Cuban Sandwich is a quick and satisfying meal, perfect for lunch or a casual dinner, that captures the rich cultural fusion of Cuban and American flavors.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of Cuban bread or French bread
- 1/2 lb roast pork, thinly sliced
- 1/4 lb ham, thinly sliced
- 1/4 lb Swiss cheese, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup dill pickles, sliced
- 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened
Instructions:
- Prepare the Bread:
- Slice the Cuban or French bread lengthwise, creating a top and bottom half.
- Assemble the Sandwich:
- Spread the yellow mustard evenly on both sides of the bread.
- Layer the sliced roast pork, ham, and Swiss cheese on the bottom half of the bread.
- Add the dill pickles over the cheese layer.
- Place the top half of the bread over the fillings to form a sandwich.
- Press the Sandwich:
- Preheat a panini press or a large skillet over medium heat.
- Spread softened butter on the outside of both the top and bottom of the sandwich.
- If using a panini press, place the sandwich in the press and close it, cooking until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 5-7 minutes.
- If using a skillet, place the sandwich in the skillet and press down firmly with another heavy skillet or a foil-wrapped brick. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
- Serve:
- Remove the sandwich from the press or skillet and let it cool slightly.
- Slice the sandwich into halves or thirds for easier handling.
Enjoy your Cuban Sandwich, a crispy and flavorful classic that’s perfect for any meal!
