Cuban Sandwich Recipe (with Video)

Cuban Sandwich Recipe: The Cuban sandwich, also known as “Cubano,” is a mouthwatering and flavorful pressed sandwich filled with roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard. It’s a staple in Cuban-American cuisine and has gained popularity worldwide for its crispy exterior and rich, savory flavors.

Did you know? This sandwich isn’t just about taste—it’s a cultural icon. Originally crafted in Cuban communities of Florida, especially in Tampa and Miami, it has become a beloved part of culinary history.

Whether you’re making it for lunch, dinner, or a party, this guide will help you create the perfect Cuban sandwich step-by-step. Ready? Let’s dive in!

Ingredients Needed for a Classic Cuban Sandwich

Essential Ingredients:

• Bread: Cuban bread (or French baguette as an alternative)
• Meat:
  • Roasted pork (mojo-marinated)
  • Sliced ham (honey or smoked)
• Cheese: Swiss cheese slices
• Pickles: Dill pickles, sliced lengthwise
• Condiments: Yellow mustard

Optional Add-ons:

• Salami (commonly used in Tampa-style Cuban sandwiches)
• Garlic butter for extra flavor
• Mayonnaise (for a creamy twist)

Pro Tip: Fresh, high-quality ingredients make all the difference in flavor. Avoid pre-packaged meats and cheeses if possible.

Kitchen Tools Required

Before diving into the recipe, make sure you have the following tools:

• Knife: For slicing bread, pickles, and meats.
• Cutting Board: To prepare ingredients safely.
• Mixing Bowls: For marinating pork.
• Skillet or Panini Press: For grilling and pressing the sandwich.
• Foil or Parchment Paper: To keep things tidy during pressing.
• Spatula or Heavy Pan: If you don’t have a press, you can use these to weigh down the sandwich.

How to Make Cuban Sandwich Bread (Cuban Bread Recipe)

Ingredients for Cuban Bread:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
• 1 ¼ cups warm water
• 2 tablespoons lard or butter

Instructions:

1. Activate the Yeast: In a bowl, mix warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes until foamy.
2. Mix Dough: Combine flour, salt, and softened lard in a large mixing bowl. Add the yeast mixture slowly.
3. Knead the Dough: Knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Let It Rise: Cover and let the dough rise in a warm place for 1–2 hours until doubled in size.
5. Shape the Loaf: Form into long, narrow loaves (about 12 inches long).
6. Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes until golden brown.

Shortcut: If short on time, use store-bought Cuban bread or substitute with French baguettes.

How to Prepare the Pork for the Sandwich

Ingredients for Mojo-Marinated Pork:

• 2–3 lbs pork shoulder or pork loin
• 1 cup orange juice
• ½ cup lime juice
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup olive oil

Instructions:

1. Prepare Marinade: Mix orange juice, lime juice, garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and olive oil in a bowl.
2. Marinate Pork: Place pork in a large zip-lock bag or container and pour marinade over it. Refrigerate for at least 4–6 hours (overnight preferred).
3. Roast the Pork:
   • Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
   • Place pork in a roasting pan and cook for 3–4 hours until tender. Baste occasionally.
4. Shred or Slice Pork: Once cooled, slice thinly or shred for the sandwich.

Step-by-Step Assembly of the Cuban Sandwich

Layering the Ingredients:

1. Slice the Bread: Cut Cuban bread lengthwise and spread mustard evenly on both sides.
2. Add the Meats and Cheese: Layer ham, roasted pork, and Swiss cheese slices.
3. Add Pickles: Place pickles evenly to ensure every bite has crunch and tang.
4. Close the Sandwich: Press the top bread layer firmly to hold everything together.

Pressing the Sandwich:

1. Butter the Outside: Lightly butter both sides of the bread for a golden crust.
2. Grill the Sandwich: Place in a preheated panini press or skillet. Use medium heat and press for 3–5 minutes until cheese melts and bread crisps.
3. Alternative Pressing Method: If you don’t have a panini press, use a heavy pan to press down while cooking each side.

Cooking Methods for the Perfect Cuban Sandwich

Using a Panini Press:

1. Preheat the Press: Set the panini press to medium-high heat. Preheating ensures even cooking and crispiness.
2. Butter the Outside of the Bread: Apply a thin layer of butter on both the top and bottom of the sandwich to create a golden-brown crust.
3. Press and Cook: Place the sandwich in the press and close the lid firmly. Cook for 3–5 minutes or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is fully melted.
4. Check Doneness: Open the press carefully and check that the cheese is gooey and the bread has a light, golden-brown hue.

Alternative Cooking Methods:

No Panini Press? No Problem!

Skillet Method:

• Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil.
• Place the sandwich in the skillet and use a second skillet, pot, or foil-wrapped brick to press down firmly.

Flip and Cook Both Sides:

• Cook for 3–4 minutes on one side, flip the sandwich, and press again until the other side is crispy.

Oven Method (For Large Batches):

• Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Wrap sandwiches in foil and place a baking sheet or heavy pan on top for pressure.
• Bake for 10–15 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Pro Tip: If you want extra crunch, leave the sandwiches in the oven for an additional 2–3 minutes after removing the press.

Tips for Achieving the Perfect Pressed Sandwich

• Use Cuban Bread: Authentic Cuban bread is light and airy, perfect for pressing without becoming too dense.
• Press Firmly, but Don’t Flatten Completely: The sandwich should be compressed enough to hold together but not squished to the point of losing texture.
• Butter Generously: Buttering the outside creates a beautiful golden crust while adding flavor.
• Don’t Overload with Ingredients:Stick to thin layers for balanced flavor and easier pressing.
• Let the Sandwich Rest Before Cutting: Allow it to cool slightly to prevent ingredients from spilling out when slicing.

Variations of the Cuban Sandwich

1. Tampa-Style Cuban Sandwich:

• Includes Genoa salami along with the traditional pork, ham, and cheese, adding an extra layer of flavor.

2. Spicy Cuban Sandwich:

• Add jalapeños or spicy mustard for a kick.

3. Vegetarian Cuban Sandwich:

• Replace meat with grilled vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, and roasted red peppers while keeping the cheese and pickles.

4. Breakfast Cuban Sandwich:

• Add fried eggs or scrambled eggs to create a breakfast-friendly version.

5. Mini Cuban Sliders:

• Make bite-sized versions using small rolls, perfect for parties and appetizers.

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

Pair your Cuban sandwich with these tasty sides to create a complete meal:

1. Plantain Chips (Chifles): Crunchy and slightly sweet, they complement the sandwich’s savory flavors.
2. Black Bean Soup: A warm and hearty side that balances the meal.
3. Yuca Fries: Crispy and golden, served with garlic dipping sauce.
4. Potato Salad: Creamy and tangy, perfect for picnics and gatherings.
5. Coleslaw: Adds freshness and crunch to the meal.
6. Pickled Vegetables: Bright and zesty flavors to cut through the richness of the sandwich.

Beverage Pairings:

• Iced tea, Cuban coffee, or a classic mojito for an authentic Cuban experience.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storage Tips:

• Refrigerate: Wrap leftover sandwiches tightly in plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
• Freeze: For longer storage, freeze sandwiches wrapped in foil and then placed in a zip-lock bag for up to 2 months.

Reheating Instructions:

• Oven Reheating: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the sandwich on a baking sheet and heat for 10–15 minutes.
• Skillet Reheating: Heat the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently to regain crispiness.
• Avoid Microwaving: It may soften the bread and make the sandwich soggy.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Per Serving (Approx.)
Calories	450–500 kcal
Protein	25–30 g
Carbohydrates	40–45 g
Fat	20–25 g
Fiber	2–4 g
Sodium	800–900 mg

Note: Nutritional values may vary depending on the ingredients used.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using the Wrong Bread: Cuban bread is essential for authenticity—other types may alter the texture.
2. Skipping the Pressing Step: Pressing enhances flavors and creates the crispy texture that defines a Cuban sandwich.
3. Overloading Ingredients: Too much filling can lead to a soggy and hard-to-eat sandwich.
4. Not Marinating the Pork Properly: Marinating overnight ensures the pork is flavorful and tender.
5. Forgetting the Pickles: Pickles add a tangy contrast—don’t skip them!

FAQs about Cuban Sandwich Recipe

1. Can I make a Cuban sandwich without Cuban bread?

Yes, you can substitute Cuban bread with French bread or a soft baguette if Cuban bread is unavailable. However, authentic Cuban bread provides the best texture and flavor.

2. What is mojo marinade, and can I use store-bought options?

Mojo marinade is a citrus-garlic marinade traditionally used for pork in Cuban cuisine. While homemade marinade offers the freshest flavors, store-bought versions are convenient and work well in a pinch.

3. How do I keep my sandwich crispy if I’m making it ahead of time?

To maintain crispiness, avoid assembling the sandwich too early. Store the ingredients separately and assemble just before pressing. You can also lightly toast the bread before assembling to help retain its crunch.

4. Can I use leftover pork roast for this sandwich?

Absolutely! Leftover pork roast works wonderfully as long as it’s seasoned well. Warm it slightly before assembling the sandwich to enhance flavor.

5. What’s the difference between a Cuban sandwich and a medianoche?

The key difference is the bread. A Cuban sandwich uses Cuban bread, while a medianoche (meaning “midnight”) uses a slightly sweeter and softer bread. Both sandwiches share similar fillings but offer different textures.

Conclusion

The Cuban sandwich is more than just a meal—it’s a bite of history packed with flavor, tradition, and nostalgia. With its crispy crust, melty Swiss cheese, tangy pickles, and savory layers of pork and ham, this sandwich is an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Now that you know how to make the perfect Cuban sandwich, from baking the bread to marinating the pork and pressing it to perfection, there’s no excuse not to give it a try! Whether you stick to the classic recipe or add your own twist, this Cuban delight is sure to impress your family and friends.

So fire up your skillet or panini press and start cooking! Once you taste your homemade Cuban sandwich, you’ll understand why it’s cherished worldwide.