How to make TOMMY BAHAMA'S | Cubano-Cuban Sandwich

cuban bread

🥗Healthier: whole grain bread

💰Cheaper: white bread

Whole grain bread adds fiber while white bread is more accessible.

roast pork

🥗Healthier: grilled chicken

💰Cheaper: pork loin

Grilled chicken is leaner, while pork loin is a cost-effective substitute.

Swiss cheese

🥗Healthier: low-fat cheese

💰Cheaper: American cheese

Low-fat cheese reduces calories, while American cheese is widely available.

pickles

🥗Healthier: cucumber slices

💰Cheaper: relish

Cucumber slices are fresh, while relish is often less expensive.

Trim off excess fat and silver skin from the pork tenderloin using a sharp paring knife.

Drizzle the pork tenderloin with 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and rub it in.

Sprinkle 1/4 teaspoon of powdered garlic, 1/4 teaspoon of granulated onion, 1/4 teaspoon of ground cumin, 3/4 tablespoon of kosher salt, and 1/4 teaspoon of cracked black pepper over the pork and rub it in.

Heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a heavy skillet over high heat.

Add the pork tenderloin to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.

Transfer the pork to a 350°F oven and roast for 10 to 15 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 145°F.

While the pork is roasting, prepare the garlic mayonnaise by mixing 2/3 cup of mayonnaise, 4 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, and 2 pressed garlic cloves. Refrigerate until ready to use.

Once the pork is done, let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Slice the Cuban bread down the center lengthwise.

Spread the garlic mayonnaise generously on the inside of the bread.

Layer 8 slices of deli ham on the bread.

Add 8 slices of Swiss cheese and dill pickle spears on top of the ham.

Slice the pork tenderloin in half, then cut each half into 1/4 inch slices and layer over the pickles.

Wrap the sandwich in wax paper and press down firmly.

Preheat a sandwich press to 350°F, or use a non-stick fry pan on high heat.

Butter the outside of the sandwich and place it in the sandwich press or fry pan.

If using a fry pan, cover with tin foil and weigh it down with heavy items.

Cook until the sandwich is heated through and golden brown on both sides.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level:

Allergens