Savory Cuban pressed sandwich

Transport your taste buds to the vibrant streets of Havana with this classic Cuban Sandwich. This iconic recipe layers savory roast pork and ham with the sharp tang of pickles and mustard, all held together by melted Swiss cheese and pressed inside crispy, buttered Cuban bread. It's a symphony of textures and flavors, delivering a perfectly melty, satisfying bite every time.

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While its roots are in Cuba, the sandwich as we know it today was perfected in Florida, particularly in Tampa and Miami, by Cuban immigrants. It was the go-to lunch for workers in cigar factories, offering a hearty and delicious meal that was easy to eat. Each bite is a taste of that rich history.

Ingredients

• 8 oz (225 g) roast pork, thinly sliced
• 8 oz (225 g) deli ham, thinly sliced
• 8 oz (225 g) Swiss cheese, thinly sliced
• 1 loaf Cuban bread (or substitute with soft French or Italian bread), cut into 4 portions
• 1/4 cup yellow mustard
• 16 dill pickle slices
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened (for grilling)

Instructions

Step 1

Slice the Cuban bread horizontally and spread mustard evenly on both cut sides.

Step 2

Layer the bottom half of each bread portion with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, and pickle slices.

Step 3

Top with the other bread half and gently press down.

Step 4

Lightly butter the outside of each sandwich.

Step 5

Heat a large skillet or sandwich press (panini press) over medium heat.

Step 6

Place sandwiches in the skillet. Press down with a heavy pan or use a sandwich press. Grill for 4–5 minutes per side (or 5–7 minutes total in a press), until bread is crispy and cheese is melted.

Step 7

Remove from heat, slice diagonally, and serve hot.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To prepare this sandwich, you will need a serrated knife to slice the bread, a spatula, and either a large skillet or a dedicated sandwich/panini press. If using a skillet, have a second heavy pan ready to press the sandwich down during grilling.

Varianten und Anpassungen

If you can't find Cuban bread, a soft French or Italian loaf is a great substitute. For an extra touch of richness, feel free to add a thin layer of mayonnaise along with the mustard.

Serviervorschläge

Serve your hot Cuban Sandwiches with a side of crispy plantain chips or a simple green salad. For a complete meal experience, pair it with a refreshing light lager or a classic mojito.

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Whether for a quick lunch or a casual dinner, this Cuban Sandwich recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The wonderful contrast of the crispy exterior with the soft, flavorful filling makes it a truly special treat. Enjoy every delicious, melty bite!

Recipe FAQs

→ What bread can I use if Cuban bread is unavailable?

Soft French or Italian bread makes a great substitute, providing a similar texture and allowing the fillings to shine.

→ How do I achieve a crispy exterior and melted cheese?

Butter the outside of the sandwich and press it firmly in a skillet or panini press over medium heat for several minutes per side until golden and melty.

→ Can I add extra flavors to the sandwich?

A thin layer of mayonnaise adds richness, and serving with pickles enhances the tangy contrast in flavors.

→ What meats are used in this Cuban pressed sandwich?

The sandwich combines thinly sliced roast pork and deli ham for a layered savory taste.

→ How should I serve this sandwich?

Slice it diagonally and serve hot, ideal alongside plantain chips or a fresh salad for a complete meal.