How to Make a Cuban Sandwich | Allrecipes

Introduction

In this tutorial, we'll guide you through the process of making a delicious Cuban sandwich from scratch. This classic dish features layers of flavorful ingredients pressed and toasted to perfection. Whether you're hosting a gathering or craving a hearty meal, this Cuban sandwich recipe will satisfy your taste buds.

Step 1: Prepare the Roast Pork

1. Gather Ingredients: You will need the following for the marinade:

   • 1/2 white onion, cut into chunks
   • 15 cloves garlic
   • Juice of 3 oranges
   • Juice of 3 limes
   • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
   • 2 teaspoons dried oregano
   • 2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
   • 2 teaspoons kosher salt
   • 1 (5 pound) pork shoulder roast

2. Make Marinade:

   • In a food processor or blender, combine the onion, garlic, orange juice, lime juice, cumin, oregano, black pepper, and salt. Blend until smooth.

3. Marinate Pork:

   • Place the pork shoulder in a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven or large baking dish.
   • Cut 3 or 4 deep slits into the meat.
   • Pour the marinade over the pork, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

4. Cook the Pork:

   • Preheat your oven to 325 degrees F (165 degrees C).
   • Place the covered Dutch oven with the marinated pork in the oven.
   • Bake for 3 to 4 hours until the pork is very tender.
   • Let the pork rest for 15 minutes after removing it from the oven.

5. Shred the Pork:

   • Transfer the pork to a cutting board, skimming off any fat from the cooking liquid.
   • Shred the pork using two forks, discarding any fat or bone.
   • Return the shredded pork to the pot and moisten with the reserved cooking liquid.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches

1. Prepare Ingredients: You will need:

   • 1/4 cup softened butter, divided
   • 1 loaf Cuban bread, cut into 4 pieces and halved lengthwise
   • 2 1/2 tablespoons yellow mustard
   • 1 1/2 tablespoons mayonnaise
   • 8 slices Swiss cheese
   • 2 cups shredded roast pork
   • 12 ounces thinly sliced deli ham
   • 12 sandwich-sliced kosher dill pickles

2. Toast the Bread:

   • Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F (190 degrees C).
   • Heat a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Spread about 2 tablespoons of butter on the cut sides of the Cuban bread.
   • Place the bread cut sides down in the skillet and toast until lightly browned (about 3 minutes).

3. Prepare the Spread:

   • In a small bowl, mix the mustard and mayonnaise together.

4. Layer the Ingredients:

   • Spread about 2 teaspoons of the mustard mixture on the bottom halves of the toasted bread.
   • Add 1 slice of Swiss cheese (torn if necessary), followed by 1/2 cup of shredded pork, deli ham, 3 pickle slices, and another slice of Swiss cheese.
   • Spread the remaining mustard mixture on the top halves of the bread and place them on top of the sandwiches.

Step 3: Press and Toast the Sandwiches

1. Heat the Skillet:

   • Reheat the skillet over medium heat.
   • Spread about 1 tablespoon of butter on the outside of the bottom halves of the sandwiches.

2. Cook the Sandwiches:

   • Working with 2 sandwiches at a time, place them buttered side down in the skillet.
   • Weigh down the sandwiches with 1 or 2 heavy skillets to press them.
   • Cook until the sandwiches are toasted and golden brown (about 2 to 3 minutes).

3. Flip and Toast Again:

   • Remove the weighted skillets and spread the remaining butter on the top halves of the sandwiches.
   • Flip the sandwiches and press down again with the skillets until toasted.

4. Repeat:

   • Remove the first two sandwiches and repeat the toasting process with the remaining sandwiches.

5. Serve:

   • Cut the sandwiches in half and serve immediately.

Conclusion

You've now created a delicious Cuban sandwich filled with layers of flavor and texture. Enjoy it hot, paired with your favorite sides like plantain chips or a refreshing salad. For future meals, consider experimenting with different meats or toppings to make the sandwich your own!