How to Make a Pressed Cuban Sandwich

If you come to Tampa Florida you have got to get an authentic Cuban sandwich. If you can't make it to Tampa, then I'm going to tell you how to make one at home.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Cuban bread
• butter, softened
• sliced dill pickles
• 1 lb thinly sliced Cuban cooked pork
• 1 lb thinly sliced good-quality ham
• 1/2 lb thinly sliced mild Swiss cheese
• yellow mustard (optional)
• mayonnaise (optional)

1. 
    
   Ybor City

   The Cuban sandwich is not, in fact, a Cuban Miami invention. It comes from Tampa specifically Ybor City, the old cigar factory town within Tampa.

2. 
    
   Old Ybor City

   Cut the bread into 4 sections, each about 8 inches long; slice these sections in half horizontally; spread butter on the inside of both halves. Generously layer sandwiches with filling ingredients in the following order: pickles, roasted pork, ham, and cheese.
   Spread with the optional mustard or mayonnaise if desired.

3. 
    
   Add a side of black beans and you have a meal!

   Preheat a pancake griddle or large skillet.
   Lightly coat hot griddle or skillet with cooking spray; add in the first sandwich. I like to use my George Forman grill to press my sandwiches.

4. Place a heavy iron skillet on top of the sandwich to flatten it (you want to smash the sandwich, compressing the bread to about a third of its original size).Grill the sandwich for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden. Or 2-3 minutes in the George Forman.

Tips & Warnings

• Make sure you don't get your pan too hot or you will burn the bread before the cheese melts.

Resources

• Visit Ybor City

[godfather25]

on 9/2/2009 These are very good! I've had them, outstanding article.

[bjt004]

on 8/12/2009 Cuban sandwiches are one of my favorites. Thanks for sharing this info!

[gahazeleyes]

on 8/10/2009 Wonderful, this is a keeper. 5*****

[luvbug020509]

on 8/9/2009 sounds yummy 5*

[nonar21]

on 8/9/2009 That looks yummy. 5*