A pressed sandwich featuring roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on crusty Cuban bread.

Cuban Sandwich (Sandwich Cubano)

Recipe & Instructions (US Units)

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf Cuban bread (or substitute French or Italian bread)
• 4 tablespoons yellow mustard
• 1/2 lb sliced Swiss cheese
• 1/2 lb thinly sliced dill pickles
• 3/4 lb thinly sliced roasted pork (Lechon Asado preferred)
• 1/2 lb thinly sliced baked ham (sweet ham preferred)
• 2-4 tablespoons butter, softened

Instructions:

1. Slice the Cuban bread loaf horizontally in half. If using a long loaf, cut it into sandwich-sized portions (6-8 inches).
2. Generously spread yellow mustard on the inside of both halves of the bread.
3. Layer the ingredients on the bottom half of the bread in this order: roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, and pickles.
4. Place the top half of the bread on top.
5. Lightly butter the outside top and bottom of the sandwich.
6. Pressing:
   • Using a Panini Press: Preheat the press. Place the sandwich in the press and cook according to manufacturer's instructions, usually 5-8 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown and crispy.
   • Using a Skillet/Griddle: Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the sandwich on the skillet. Place a heavy weight on top (like another heavy skillet or a foil-wrapped brick). Cook for 3-5 minutes per side, until golden brown, crispy, and the cheese is melted. Press down firmly.
7. Slice the sandwich diagonally and serve immediately.

What makes it special?*

The Cuban Sandwich is an iconic creation, particularly associated with Cuban communities in Florida. It's more than just a ham and cheese sandwich; the specific combination of tangy mustard, sour pickles, savory roast pork, sweet ham, and nutty Swiss cheese, all pressed together on crusty, slightly sweet Cuban bread until hot and crisp, creates a unique and perfect balance of flavors and textures.