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cuban sandwich recipe details

Miami-Style Cuban Sandwich

Transport yourself to the streets of Miami with this authentic Cuban sandwich featuring tender mojo-marinated pork, sweet ham, Swiss cheese, and tangy pickles pressed between crispy Cuban bread. This iconic sandwich delivers the perfect balance of flavors and textures that has made it a beloved staple of Cuban-American cuisine.
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Course: Main Course, Snack
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Sandwich
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Marinating Time: 4 hours
Total Time: 5 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories: 785kcal

Equipment

Chef's Knife
Chopping Board
Mixing Bowl
Baking Tray
Skillet

Ingredients

For the Mojo Marinade:

  • 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp Cuban seasoning oregano, cumin

For the Sandwich:

  • 1 lb pork tenderloin
  • 2-3 loaves Cuban bread cut into 8-inch pieces
  • 1/2 cup yellow mustard
  • 8 slices Swiss cheese
  • 16 slices sweet deli ham
  • Dill pickle slices
  • 8 tbsp unsalted butter softened

Instructions

  • Combine orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, and Cuban seasoning in a bowl to create mojo marinade.
  • Place pork tenderloin in marinade and refrigerate for 2-4 hours, turning occasionally.
  • Preheat oven to 400°F. Remove pork from marinade and roast for 25-30 minutes until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
  • Let pork rest for 10 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.
  • Slice Cuban bread horizontally, keeping one side attached as a hinge.
  • Spread yellow mustard generously on the inside of both bread halves.
  • Layer ingredients in this order: roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, and pickle slices.
  • Close sandwich and butter the exterior of the bread generously.
  • Heat sandwich press or large skillet over medium heat. Place sandwich and press down firmly with press or heavy pan.
  • Cook for 3-4 minutes per side until bread is golden brown and cheese is completely melted.
  • Remove from heat, slice diagonally, and serve immediately.

Notes

Authentic Cuban bread is essential for proper texture - substitute with French bread if unavailable
The sandwich must be pressed to achieve the characteristic crispy exterior and compressed layers
Yellow mustard is traditional - never use mayonnaise on an authentic Cubano
Sweet ham is preferred over regular deli ham for authentic flavor
Make sure to slice pork against the grain for maximum tenderness
Sandwiches can be assembled ahead and refrigerated, then pressed when ready to serve
For extra flavor, reserve some mojo marinade to brush on bread before pressing

Nutrition

Calories: 785kcal | Carbohydrates: 52g | Protein: 48g | Fat: 42g | Saturated Fat: 18g | Cholesterol: 145mg | Sodium: 2240mg | Potassium: 650mg | Fiber: 3g | Sugar: 8g