Classic Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano) with Mojo Pork

Oh, friends, there’s something truly magical about a sandwich that transports you straight to sun-drenched shores with every bite, isn’t there? This Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano) is more than just a meal; it’s a vibrant symphony of flavors and textures, a culinary hug that promises pure delight. From the crispy, buttery bread to the succulent mojo pork, melted Swiss, and tangy pickles, it’s a classic for a reason, a truly satisfying experience that brings joy to any table.

My earliest kitchen memories often revolve around the comforting aromas of my grandmother’s cooking. While her specialties leaned toward sweet treats, the same care and love she poured into her cakes found its way into every dish she prepared. This Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano) brings that same feeling of warmth and home, a reflection of the joy we find in sharing good food, a tradition I’ve carried into my own kitchen.

What I adore most about this recipe is its incredible depth of flavor and how wonderfully it brings people together. It’s perfect for a weekend gathering, a family lunch, or simply as a special treat when you need a little escape. And here’s a tip from my kitchen to yours: always give your sandwiches a good press; it makes all the difference for that perfect melded deliciousness!

What You Need to Make This Recipe

Crafting this delightful sandwich requires just a few key players to create that authentic flavor profile. The heart of the Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano) lies in the tender, marinated pork shoulder, complemented beautifully by the sharp tang of dill pickles and the nutty embrace of Swiss cheese. A good quality Cuban bread, of course, is non-negotiable for that signature crispy crust and soft interior. You’ll find the complete list of ingredients and precise measurements in the recipe card below, ready to guide your culinary adventure.

How to Make Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano)

Whipping up this incredible sandwich is a journey of delicious layers, much like building a perfect cake, but savory! First, you’ll prepare the truly spectacular Mojo Pork, which, trust me, is worth making ahead of time for maximum flavor infusion. Once your pork is ready, assembling your Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano) is a quick and joyful process of layering the ham, cheese, pickles, and that glorious pork on mustard-slathered Cuban bread. Then, the magic happens in the press, transforming it into a golden, crispy, and utterly irresistible masterpiece.

Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano)

Experience the authentic taste of Miami with this Ultimate Cuban Sandwich, featuring slow-roasted mojo pork, sweet ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all pressed to perfection on crispy Cuban bread.

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Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4 sandwiches

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American, Cuban

Calories: 650

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Ultimate Mojo Pork (make ahead)

• 3-4 lbs Pork shoulder boneless or bone-in, Boston butt works well
• 1 head Garlic cloves peeled and minced
• 1/2 cup Sour orange juice or mix of 1/4 cup orange juice and 1/4 cup lime juice
• 1/4 cup Olive oil
• 1 tbsp Dried oregano Cuban oregano if possible
• 1 tbsp Ground cumin
• 2 tsp Salt
• 1 tsp Black pepper freshly ground

For the Sandwich Assembly

• 1 loaf Cuban bread approx. 20-inch loaf, cut into 4 equal sections and then split horizontally
• 1/4 cup Yellow mustard or to taste
• 12 slices Sweet ham thinly sliced, good quality
• 1 cup Mojo Pork thinly sliced or shredded, from recipe above
• 8 slices Swiss cheese thinly sliced
• 16 slices Dill pickles kosher dill, thinly sliced lengthwise
• 2 tbsp Unsalted butter softened, or mayonnaise

Equipment

• Panini Press
• Large Skillet (if no panini press)
• Heavy Plate or Weight (if using skillet)
• Baking Dish or Roasting Pan (for pork)
• Large Bowl (for marinade)

Method

 

Prepare the Ultimate Mojo Pork (Highly Recommended, Make Ahead)

1. Pat the pork shoulder dry with paper towels. Score the fat cap if present in a criss-cross pattern, about 1/4 inch deep.
2. In a large bowl, combine minced garlic, sour orange juice (or orange/lime mix), olive oil, dried oregano, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the mojo marinade.
3. Place the pork in a large Ziploc bag or non-reactive dish. Pour the mojo marinade over the pork, ensuring it’s well coated. Massage the marinade into the pork. Refrigerate and marinate for at least 8 hours, preferably 24 hours, turning occasionally.
4. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Remove pork from marinade, letting excess drip off (do not rinse). Place pork in a roasting pan or Dutch oven, fat-side up.
5. Roast for 3-4 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 190-200°F (88-93°C) and the pork is fork-tender. Baste occasionally with pan drippings. For crispier skin, you can increase the temperature to 400°F (200°C) for the last 15-20 minutes.
6. Remove pork from oven, cover loosely with foil, and let rest for 15-20 minutes. Slice thinly against the grain for sandwiches, or shred if preferred. Reserve any juices.

Assemble the Cuban Sandwich

1. Preheat your panini press to medium-high heat. If using a skillet, preheat it over medium heat.
2. Cut the Cuban bread loaf into four equal sections. Carefully slice each section horizontally, without cutting all the way through, creating a ‘hinge’ on one side.
3. Spread a generous amount of yellow mustard on both the top and bottom interior halves of each bread section.
4. On the bottom half of each sandwich, layer in the following order: 3 slices of ham, a good portion (about 1/4 cup) of thinly sliced mojo pork, 2 slices of Swiss cheese, and 4 pickle slices.
5. Close the sandwiches. Lightly spread softened butter or mayonnaise on the top and bottom exterior surfaces of each sandwich. This helps achieve a golden, crispy crust.

Press and Serve

1. Place 1-2 buttered sandwiches in the preheated panini press. Close the lid and press firmly for 4-6 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is thoroughly melted. If using a skillet, place the buttered sandwich in the skillet, place a heavy plate or second skillet on top, and weigh it down. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing firmly, until golden and cheese is melted.
2. Carefully remove the pressed sandwiches. For an authentic presentation, slice each sandwich diagonally in half.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy your ultimate Cuban sandwich!

Notes

The Mojo Pork is the heart of an authentic Cuban sandwich and can be made up to 3 days in advance. Store cooked pork in its juices in the refrigerator. For best results, use genuine Cuban bread; if unavailable, a crusty baguette or Italian bread with a soft interior can be substituted. The pressing is crucial for compressing the sandwich and melding the flavors, achieving that signature flat, crispy exterior.

Creating the perfect Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano) is all about thoughtful steps, much like how I approach my favorite dessert recipes. These little tricks make a world of difference, ensuring your sandwich is as delicious as those cherished memories from my grandmother’s kitchen.

First, don’t rush the mojo pork. The longer it marinates, the more flavor it develops, transforming simple pork shoulder into something truly extraordinary. My grandmother always said patience is an ingredient, and it’s especially true here for the most succulent mojo pork.

My Secret Trick: When pressing the Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano), I always brush the outside of the bread lightly with unsalted butter. It creates the most wonderfully golden and crispy crust that locks in all those incredible flavors without making it greasy. It’s like the perfect crisp topping on a fruit crumble!

For assembly, ensure you layer thoughtfully. A good spread of yellow mustard on both halves of the bread adds a tangy zing that cuts through the richness of the meats and cheese. And don’t be shy with the dill pickles; their bright, briny crunch is essential for balance in every bite of this Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano).

Finally, heat management during pressing is key. A medium heat allows the sandwich to toast to a beautiful golden brown while ensuring the Swiss cheese melts perfectly, creating that gooey, irresistible center without burning the bread. Trust me, these small details elevate your Cuban sandwich from good to unforgettable.

Fun Variations for Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano)

One of the joys of cooking is getting to play and experiment, much like adding a new flavor swirl to a classic cookie! While the Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano) is perfect as is, there are always ways to add your own personal touch or cater to different tastes.

Spicier Kick

If you love a little heat, consider adding a thin layer of finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the mustard before assembling. My friend, who adores spicy food, always asks me to include a sprinkle of red pepper flakes with the mojo pork marinade for an extra fiery twist on this Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano).

Gourmet Cheese Swap

While Swiss cheese is traditional, don’t hesitate to experiment with other melty cheeses. Provolone or a mild white cheddar can offer a slightly different, yet equally delicious, flavor profile. Just ensure it’s a good melting cheese to get that signature gooey center.

Vegetarian Twist

For a fantastic plant-based option, you could replace the pork and ham with marinated grilled portobello mushrooms and perhaps some smoked tempeh slices. It creates a surprisingly savory and satisfying sandwich that mimics the textures beautifully, making for a creative take on the classic structure of the Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano).

What to Serve With Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano)

When I think about the Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano), my mind goes to sunny afternoons and shared meals, much like a cozy evening calls for warm apple pie. This hearty sandwich is a star on its own, but a few simple accompaniments can make the experience even more delightful.

My favorite way to enjoy this sandwich is with a simple side salad, perhaps dressed with a light vinaigrette, to add a fresh, crisp counterpoint to its richness. It’s like a cool scoop of ice cream next to a warm brownie – perfect balance!

Another wonderful pairing is a bowl of homemade black bean soup. The earthy, savory flavors complement the sandwich beautifully, creating a truly comforting and authentic meal. My mom always said a good soup makes any meal feel complete, and she was right!

For a quicker, more casual option, a handful of crispy plantain chips or even just a simple bag of kettle-cooked potato chips adds that satisfying crunch that just elevates the entire Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano) experience.

How to Store Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano)

To keep your Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano) tasting as fresh and delicious as possible, proper storage is key, just like carefully wrapping leftover cake to preserve its moisture. While these sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh off the press, you can certainly prepare components ahead of time or store leftovers.

Storing Leftover Sandwiches

If you have a pressed Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano) leftover, let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheating is best done in a panini press or a skillet on medium-low heat until warmed through and re-crisped. My personal tip is to always use an airtight container for any leftovers to keep them from drying out!

Make-Ahead Mojo Pork

The Mojo Pork component of your Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano) is fantastic for making in advance. Once cooked and cooled, store the shredded pork in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating gently and assembling your sandwiches. This is such a time-saver for busy weeknights!

Nutritional Benefits

Even savory delights like the Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano) can offer some good-for-you elements! This robust sandwich provides a hearty dose of protein from the pork and ham, essential for building and repairing tissues. While it’s certainly an indulgent treat, incorporating ingredients like pickles adds a touch of beneficial probiotics and a refreshing crunch. It’s a treat that’s both satisfying and nourishing in its own wonderful way.

FAQs

Faq 1

Can I make the Mojo Pork ahead of time for the Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano)?
Absolutely! In fact, making the Mojo Pork a day or two in advance allows the flavors to deepen beautifully. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to assemble your Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano).

Faq 2

What kind of bread is best for a Cuban sandwich?
Traditional Cuban bread, which is similar to a baguette but typically made with a bit of lard, is ideal. Its crispy crust and soft interior hold up wonderfully under the press, making it perfect for the Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano).

Faq 3

Do I need a panini press to make this Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano)?
While a panini press is convenient, you can easily make a fantastic Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano) using a heavy-bottomed skillet and a second heavy pan or foil-wrapped bricks to press the sandwich down.

Faq 4

Can I freeze the assembled Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano)?
I don’t recommend freezing the assembled Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano) as the bread can become soggy upon thawing. However, the cooked Mojo Pork freezes wonderfully, so you can always have that ready for future sandwiches.

Conclusion

Oh, the joy of a homemade meal, especially one as rich in flavor and history as this Ultimate Cuban Sandwich Recipe (Cubano)! It’s a culinary journey that promises warmth, comfort, and an explosion of delightful tastes. Just like my grandmother’s desserts brought everyone together, this sandwich has a way of creating those treasured moments around the table. So, gather your ingredients, follow these steps with a sprinkle of love, and get ready to create not just a meal, but memories. Happy pressing, my dear friends, and enjoy every flavorful bite!