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A classic Cuban sandwich filled with ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on crispy Cuban bread, set on a tropical table with plantain chips, sliced pickles, and a refreshing mojito under palm trees

Authentic Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano): The Ultimate Guide to Making the Perfect Sandwich at Home


  • Author: Lucinda
  • Total Time: 3 hours 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4-6 sandwiches 1x

Description

Learn how to make an authentic Cuban Sandwich (Cubano) at home with this step-by-step guide. Packed with tender Mojo pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on crispy Cuban bread, this sandwich is a flavorful journey into Cuban culture and tradition. Perfect for a hearty meal or a taste of Miami’s vibrant food scene!


Ingredients

Scale
  • For the Mojo Pork:

    • 4 lbs pork shoulder or butt

    • 1 cup orange juice

    • 1/2 cup lime juice

    • 1/2 cup olive oil

    • 8 garlic cloves, minced

    • 1 tbsp dried oregano

    • 1 tbsp ground cumin

    • Salt and pepper to taste

  • For the Sandwich:

    • 1 loaf Cuban bread (or French baguette)

    • 1/2 lb sliced ham

    • 1/2 lb Swiss cheese, sliced

    • 1/2 cup dill pickles, sliced

    • 1/4 cup yellow mustard

    • Butter for grilling


Instructions

  1. Prepare the Mojo Pork:

    • In a bowl, mix orange juice, lime juice, olive oil, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper.

    • Place the pork in a large resealable bag or container and pour the marinade over it.

    • Marinate in the fridge for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.

    • Preheat the oven to 325°F (160°C). Roast the pork for 2-3 hours until tender and easily shredded.

  2. Assemble the Sandwich:

    • Slice the Cuban bread into sandwich-sized portions and cut each piece horizontally.

    • Spread mustard on the bottom half of the bread.

    • Layer the roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, and pickles on top.

    • Close the sandwich with the top half of the bread.

  3. Grill the Sandwich:

    • Heat a skillet or Panini press over medium heat.

    • Butter the outside of the sandwich and grill for 3-4 minutes on each side until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.

    • If using a skillet, press the sandwich down with a heavy object (like a foil-wrapped brick) to flatten it.

  4. Serve:

    • Slice the sandwich diagonally and serve warm. Enjoy with plantain chips, black bean soup, or a fresh salad.

Notes

  • Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the sandwiches ahead of time and refrigerate overnight. Grill just before serving.

  • Freezing Instructions: Wrap the assembled sandwiches in foil and freeze for up to 1 month. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes.

  • Substitutions: Use French bread or Italian bread if Cuban bread is unavailable.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 3 hours (for pork) + 10 minutes (for grilling)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Cuban

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 sandwich
  • Calories: 650
  • Sugar: 5
  • Sodium: 1200mg
  • Fat: 35g
  • Saturated Fat: 12g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Protein: 45g
  • Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: Cuban Sandwich, Cubano, Mojo Pork, Cuban Recipe, Authentic Cuban Sandwich, Miami Food