The Best Tampa-Style Cuban Sandwiches

Cuban bread

🥗Healthier: whole grain bread

💰Cheaper: French bread

Whole grain adds fiber, while French bread is more accessible.

Swiss cheese

🥗Healthier: low-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: American cheese

Low-fat cheese reduces calories, while American cheese is often less expensive.

roast pork

🥗Healthier: grilled chicken

💰Cheaper: pork loin

Grilled chicken is leaner, while pork loin is a more economical cut.

pickles

🥗Healthier: cucumber slices

💰Cheaper: homemade pickles

Cucumber slices add freshness, and homemade pickles can be made cheaply.

Mix kosher salt, brown sugar, lime zest, orange zest, minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes in a bowl.

Cut a one-inch crosshatch pattern into the fat cap of the pork butt.

Rub half of the seasoning mixture on all sides of the pork butt, then flip and apply the rest.

Wrap the pork butt in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours.

After curing, place the pork in a Dutch oven and add 2 cups of water.

Roast the pork until tender (exact time not specified in the transcript).

Slice the Cuban bread lengthwise without cutting all the way through.

Spread butter on the outer sides of the bread.

Layer roast pork, ham, salami, and Swiss cheese inside the bread.

Add pickles and a generous spread of yellow mustard.

Close the sandwich and press it gently.

Preheat a grill or panini press over medium heat.

Place the sandwich on the grill and press down with a heavy pan or press.

Grill until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, about 3-5 minutes per side.

Remove from the grill and let it rest for a minute.

Slice the sandwich diagonally and serve hot.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens