Cuban Sandwich

This Cuban sandwich is a delicious and satisfying meal, perfect for lunch or dinner. With layers of roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, and pickles, all pressed between crispy bread, it’s a flavor-packed delight.

Ingredients:

  • 1 loaf Cuban bread (or French bread)
  • 4 tablespoons yellow mustard
  • 4 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 1/2 pound sliced roast pork
  • 1/2 pound sliced ham
  • 8 slices Swiss cheese
  • 8 dill pickle slices

Directions:

  1. Preheat Cooking Surface:
    • Preheat a panini press or large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Prepare Bread:
    • Slice the bread in half lengthwise. Spread mustard on the bottom half and butter on the top half.
  3. Layer Ingredients:
    • Layer the roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, and pickles on the bottom half of the bread.
  4. Assemble Sandwich:
    • Place the top half of the bread over the fillings and press down gently.
  5. Cook Sandwich:
    • Using a Panini Press: Cook the sandwich for 6-8 minutes, or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
    • Using a Skillet: Place the sandwich in the skillet and press down with another heavy skillet or a weighted object. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
  6. Serve:
    • Slice the sandwich into portions and serve immediately.

Nutritional Information:

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking Time: 8 minutes
  • Total Time: 18 minutes
  • Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving
  • Servings: 4 servings

Tips and Variations:

  • Bread Choice: If you can’t find Cuban bread, French bread is a good substitute. The key is to use a bread with a crusty exterior and soft interior.
  • Meat Options: Feel free to use leftover roast pork or ham. Some variations also include salami for an extra layer of flavor.
  • Pickles: Dill pickles are traditional, but you can experiment with bread-and-butter pickles or other pickled vegetables.
  • Pressing the Sandwich: If you don’t have a panini press, you can use a skillet and press down with another heavy skillet or a large pot. A brick wrapped in aluminum foil can also work as a weight.

Enjoy this classic Cuban sandwich as a hearty and flavorful meal!