How To Make The Perfect Cuban Sandwich

Florida boasts a rich sandwich culture, with several varieties standing out in popularity.

Here are the top 3

Cubano (Cuban Sandwich): Originating from Florida's Cuban communities, particularly in Miami and Tampa, the Cubano is a staple. This sandwich typically features roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all pressed within Cuban bread. Miami and Tampa each offer unique takes on this classic, with Tampa's version notably including salami.

Pub Sub (Publix Submarine Sandwich): Offered by the Publix supermarket chain, Pub Subs have garnered a dedicated following among Floridians. These customizable sandwiches are praised for their fresh ingredients and variety, making them a popular choice statewide.

Chick-fil-A Chicken Sandwich: According to a 2024 report by Coupon Birds, Chick-fil-A's chicken sandwich ranks as the most popular chicken sandwich in Florida. Its widespread availability and distinctive flavor contribute to its popularity among Floridians.

Let's Talk About The " Cuban Sandwich."

These are the three top sandwiches in Florida. If you live on the Nature Coast, you’ll any one of these three options throughout the area. Today we are going to explore the world-famous “Cuban Sandwich.”

Let’s say you have a craving, but don’t want to go out? Here’s a recipe that’s sure to please.

A Cuban sandwich, or Cubano, is a delicious, pressed sandwich that's a combination of savory meats, melty cheese, and zesty condiments. Here's how you can make one at home:

Here are the ingredients:

• Bread: 1 loaf of Cuban bread (or a good substitute like French or Italian bread)

• Meats:

  • 1/2 pound of roast pork (thinly sliced)

  • 1/4 pound of ham (thinly sliced)

• Cheese: 4 slices of Swiss cheese

• Pickles: Dill pickle slices

• Condiments:

  • Yellow mustard

  • Optional: Mayonnaise, not traditional, but some prefer it

• Butter: For grilling

Equipment:

• Sandwich press or a heavy skillet/pan

Here are the cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Bread:

   • Slice the Cuban bread loaf in half lengthwise.

2. Layer the Ingredients:

   • Spread a thin layer of yellow mustard on both sides of the bread.

   • Layer the bottom half with:

     • Slices of ham

     • Roast pork

     • Swiss cheese

     • Pickle slices

3. Assemble the Sandwich:

   • Place the top half of the bread over the layered ingredients.

4. Press and Grill:

   • Preheat your sandwich press or a skillet.

   • Butter the outside of the bread on both sides.

   • If using a press, close it and grill the sandwich for 5-7 minutes, or until the bread is golden and crispy and the cheese is melted.

   • If using a skillet, place the sandwich in the pan and press it down with another heavy skillet or pan. Flip the sandwich after 3-4 minutes to grill the other side.

5. Serve:

   • Slice the sandwich diagonally and serve warm.

Tips:

• Use authentic Cuban bread if possible for the best results. It has a light, crisp crust and soft interior.

• The roast pork can be marinated with mojo (a citrus-garlic marinade) for extra flavor before cooking.

• A panini press works well as a substitute for a traditional sandwich press.

You can always mix it up. Make it how you want it!

Enjoy your homemade Cuban sandwich! 🌟

https://youtube.com/shorts/x0BRJgZWPQI