The Cuban sandwich, also known as “Cubano,” is a flavorful pressed sandwich that originated in Cuban communities in Florida, particularly Miami and Tampa. Made with Cuban bread, roasted pork, sliced ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, it’s pressed until golden and crispy on the outside while staying warm, cheesy, and savory on the inside. This sandwich is the perfect blend of cultures and flavors, making it a beloved street food and café staple.
Ingredient
| Cuban Bread or Soft Baguette | 1 (about 8 inches long) |
|---|---|
| Swiss Cheese | 4 slices |
| Sliced Turkey Breast | 4 slices |
| Thin-Sliced Deli Roast Beef | 4 slices |
| Yellow Mustard | 1-2 tablespoons |
| Dill Pickles | 6-8 thin slices |
| Unsalted Butter or Mayonnaise | 1 tablespoon |
Cooking Steps
Step 1: Prepare and Assemble the Sandwich
- Slice the Cuban bread or baguette lengthwise.
- Spread yellow mustard generously on the inside of both cut sides of the bread.
- Layer the ingredients onto the bottom half of the bread in the following order:
- 2 slices of Swiss cheese
- Sliced Turkey Breast
- Thin-Sliced Roast Beef
- Dill Pickles
- 2 remaining slices of Swiss cheese
4. Close the sandwich with the top half of the bread.
Step 2: Press and Grill
- Spread a thin layer of softened butter or mayonnaise on the outside of both the top and bottom of the sandwich.
- Preheat your panini press, skillet, or griddle over medium heat.
- Place the assembled sandwich on the hot surface. If using a skillet, immediately place the heavy press on top of the sandwich.
- Grill for 3-5 minutes on one side. The goal is to flatten the sandwich and create a crispy, golden crust while melting the cheese completely.
- If using a skillet, flip the sandwich, replace the press, and cook for another 3-5 minutes. If using a press, continue cooking until fully crisped.
Step 3: Serve
- Remove the sandwich from the press and cut it diagonally.
- Serve immediately while the bread is hot and crusty and the cheese is melted and gooey.
Extra Tips for a Perfect Cubano
- Pressing is Essential: The flattening of the bread is non-negotiable for a Cuban sandwich. It compacts the fillings and gives the bread a signature crispness.
- Mustard and Pickles: Do not skip the mustard or the dill pickles! Their tart, vinegary tang is essential to cutting through the richness of the meat and cheese.
- Warming the Meat: For a better result, quickly warm the sliced turkey and roast beef in a separate skillet before assembling the sandwich.
Nutritional Value
Approximate (per sandwich)
| Calories | 600-800 kcal |
|---|---|
| Protein | 40-55 grams |
| Fat | 30-45 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 40-55 grams |
| Fiber | 2-4 grams |
Benefits
- ✅ High in Protein: A combination of roasted pork and ham makes it filling and energizing.
- ✅ Balanced Flavors: The tangy mustard and pickles cut through the richness of the meat and cheese.
- ✅ Crispy & Cheesy: Offers the ultimate comfort food texture with a crunchy crust and melty interior.
- ✅ Cultural Classic: Represents the fusion of Cuban and American food traditions.
- ✅ Versatile Meal: Works great as lunch, dinner, or a hearty snack.
The Cuban sandwich is more than just a pressed ham and cheese—it’s a cultural icon that reflects history and flavor in every bite. With its balance of savory meats, creamy cheese, zesty mustard, and pickles, all tucked inside warm crispy bread, it’s no wonder this sandwich is celebrated worldwide. Whether enjoyed in Miami or at home, the Cubano is a must-try for sandwich lovers.