Description
This Cuban Pork Sandwich, also known as Cubanos, is a deliciously crispy and savory treat inspired by the iconic sandwich featured in the film Chef. Featuring thinly sliced mojo marinated pork, baked ham, Swiss cheese, dill pickles, and American mustard, all layered on toasted white baguette and pressed until golden and melty, it offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Ingredients
Scale
Meats
- 2 thin slices baked leg ham
- 4 large thin slices mojo marinated pork
Bread & Condiments
- 2 pieces white baguettes (6 inch/15 cm in length, cut in half)
- Melted butter (for brushing)
- American mustard (to taste)
- 2 thin slices Swiss cheese
- 2 to 3 dill pickles (thinly sliced)
Instructions
- Cook Meats: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add ham and pork slices. Cook each side until slightly browned and flavorful, then transfer the meats to a plate to rest.
- Toast Bread: Brush the cut sides of the baguettes with melted butter. Place cut side down in the skillet and toast for about 2 minutes until lightly browned. Remove from skillet and place on a work surface.
- Assemble Sandwich: Layer the bottom halves of the baguettes with the cooked pork, ham, Swiss cheese, and dill pickle slices. Adjust the meats and cheese by cutting or folding if necessary to fit properly. Spread mustard evenly on the cut side of the top halves, then place them on top to close the sandwiches.
- Butter Exterior: Generously butter both the top and bottom outside surfaces of each baguette.
- Press and Cook Sandwich: Return skillet to medium-high heat and place the assembled sandwiches inside. Top each sandwich with a sheet of baking paper and weigh them down with a heavy skillet, pot, or weighted cans to compress the sandwich. Cook for 3 minutes on each side, turning carefully, until the bread is dark golden brown and crispy and the cheese has melted thoroughly.
- Rest and Serve: Let the sandwiches sit for 1 minute to set. Cut in half and serve immediately for best texture and flavor.
Notes
- Using mojo marinated pork authenticates the Cuban flavor; if unavailable, substitute with marinated roasted pork.
- Applying butter on both the bread sides ensures a crispy and flavorful crust.
- Pressing the sandwich simulates a Cuban press but can be improvised with weights and baking paper in a skillet.
- Serve hot to enjoy the melted cheese and crispy bread.
