authentic cuban sandwich recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best authentic cuban sandwich recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my family’s favorite authentic Cuban sandwich recipe. This delicious sandwich originated in Cuba, where it’s known as a ‘Cubano’ or ‘Cubanito.’ It’s a staple in Cuban cuisine and is typically made with ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all pressed between crispy bread.

The combination of flavors and textures is absolute perfection. My kids love helping me assemble the sandwiches and can’t get enough of the gooey cheese and tangy pickles. We often serve them at family gatherings and parties, and they’re always a hit.

The best part? This recipe is incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. You can even make it ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze it for later use.

I love that this recipe is not only delicious but also convenient and adaptable to our busy lives. Plus, the health benefits of this sandwich are impressive – it’s a great source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats. So go ahead and give this recipe a try!

I promise you won’t be disappointed.

Authentic Cuban Sandwich Recipe

4.9 from 959 votes

A classic Cuban sandwich is a delicious combination of ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, and pickles on crispy Cuban bread. This recipe captures the essence of a traditional Cuban sandwich, perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Pork

2 lbs pork shoulder
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper

For the Sandwich

1 loaf Cuban bread
1 lb sliced ham
1/2 lb Swiss cheese
1/2 cup dill pickles
2 tbsp yellow mustard
2 tbsp mayonnaise

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the slow cooker to medium heat.
2Add the pork shoulder, olive oil, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3Mix well to coat the pork evenly.
4Cook on medium for 4 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shredded with a fork.
5Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks.
6Set the shredded pork aside and keep it warm.
7Wipe out the slow cooker to remove any excess fat.
8Cut the Cuban bread in half lengthwise.
9Spread a thin layer of mustard on one half and mayonnaise on the other half.
10Layer the shredded pork, ham, and Swiss cheese on the mustard side.
11Top with pickles and place the other half of the bread on top, pressing down gently.
12Pour 1 tbsp of olive oil into a large skillet and heat over medium heat.
13Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes, until the bread is golden brown and crispy.
14Flip the sandwich and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the bread is golden brown and crispy and the cheese is melted.
15Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it cool for 1-2 minutes before slicing it in half.
16Serve the sandwich warm with a side of pickles or chips.
17Enjoy your authentic Cuban sandwich.

🔧Equipment

Slow cooker
Cutting board
Knife
Skillet
Spatula

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option.

This authentic Cuban sandwich recipe is a staple in our household, and we love serving it at family gatherings and parties. One of the best things about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make ahead of time – simply assemble the sandwiches up to a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

When you’re ready to serve, simply heat up your press or grill until crispy and serve immediately. We also love that this recipe is adaptable to different occasions – whether we’re looking for a quick lunch or dinner option or want something special for a holiday gathering.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cuban Sandwich

What is the origin of the Cuban sandwich?

The Cuban sandwich has its roots in Cuba, where it was created by Cuban immigrants who brought their culinary traditions with them when they arrived in the United States. Specifically, it’s believed to have originated in Tampa, Florida, where many Cubans settled during the early 20th century.

How do I choose the right type of ham for this recipe?

For this recipe, you’ll want to use a cured ham that’s thinly sliced. Prosciutto or serrano ham work beautifully. You can also use regular ham if you prefer.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?

While traditional Cuban sandwiches feature ham and roasted pork, you can easily substitute these ingredients with plant-based alternatives such as tempeh or seitan for a meatless version.

How do I roast the pork for this recipe?

To roast the pork for this recipe, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and roast for about 20-25 minutes per pound or until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Let it rest before slicing.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the sandwiches up to a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

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