🍲 **Cubano Sandwich 🥪**

The Cubano sandwich is a delicious cultural masterpiece that combines tender marinated pork, savory ham, and melted Swiss cheese, all nestled between crispy Cuban bread. This recipe will guide you through creating an authentic Cubano that’s sure to impress!

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🌍 **What Is a Cubano?**

The Cubano, or Cuban Sandwich, is a beloved dish originating from Cuba, particularly popular in Florida. It features layers of marinated pork, ham, cheese, and pickles, all pressed into a warm, crispy sandwich. Its rich flavors and textures make it a favorite among sandwich lovers.

🧾 **Ingredients**

**Base:**

- **For the Mojo Pork Marinade:**

- 3-4 lbs boneless pork shoulder

- 2 shallots, peeled

- 15 garlic cloves, peeled

- Zest of 2 oranges

- Zest of 3 limes

- 2 tbsp fresh oregano leaves

- ½ bunch fresh mint leaves

- 1 tbsp (5g) ground cumin

- 2 whole serrano chiles

- 1 cup (240ml) olive oil

- 2 tbsp (26g) kosher salt

- 1 cup (240ml) lime juice

- 1 cup (240ml) orange juice

- **For the Cuban Bread:**

- 1 ¼ cups (295ml) warm water (about 100°F)

- 1 tbsp (10g) active dry yeast

- 3 ½ cups (500g) bread flour

- 1 tbsp (13g) granulated sugar

- 2 tsp (5g) fine sea salt

- 2 ½ tbsp (30g) solidified lard

- **For the Sandwich Assembly:**

- Dill pickles, sliced lengthwise

- 5-6 slices cooked ham (not smoked)

- Swiss cheese, shredded or sliced

- Unsalted butter, softened

**Optional:**

- Additional condiments (e.g., mustard)

👩‍🍳 **Step-by-Step Instructions**

1. **Prepare the Mojo Marinade:**

- In a blender, combine shallots, garlic, orange zest, lime zest, oregano, mint, cumin, serrano chiles, olive oil, kosher salt, lime juice, and orange juice.

- Blend on high until smooth.

- Reserve 1 cup of the marinade in the fridge for later use.

2. **Marinate the Pork:**

- Place the pork shoulder in a plastic bag and pour the remaining marinade over it. Seal the bag tightly and refrigerate overnight.

3. **Make the Cuban Bread:**

- In a bowl, mix warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 8 minutes.

- In a separate bowl, whisk together bread flour, sugar, and salt.

- Combine the yeast mixture with the dry ingredients in a stand mixer and mix on medium-low speed until combined.

- Add lard and mix until smooth.

- Shape the dough into a ball, place it in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise for 45 minutes to 1 hour.

4. **Shape the Bread:**

- Punch down the risen dough and divide it into two pieces.

- Roll each piece into a rectangle about ½ inch thick, then tightly roll it up from the bottom to the top.

- Place the logs on a parchment-lined baking sheet, cover, and let them proof for 30 minutes.

5. **Bake the Bread:**

- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly spray the dough with water and score the tops.

- Place a pan of boiling water in the oven to create steam and bake for 8-10 minutes.

- Reduce the heat to 375°F (190°C) and bake for an additional 20-22 minutes until golden brown. Let cool completely.

6. **Cook the Pork:**

- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the marinated pork in a Dutch oven and pour in the marinade.

- Bake for 10 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and cook for 3-3.5 hours, turning occasionally.

- Once cooked, shred the pork and mix it with the caramelized marinade.

7. **Assemble the Sandwich:**

- Cut the Cuban bread to your desired length and slice it in half.

- Butter the inside of each half and toast them in a cold pan over medium heat until golden.

- In the same pan, sear the ham slices until browned.

- On the bottom half of the bread, spread yellow mustard, layer with pickles, seared ham, shredded pork, and Swiss cheese.

- Top with the other half of the bread and butter the outside generously.

8. **Press the Sandwich:**

- Place the sandwich in a cold pan and top with a preheated cast-iron pan to press it down. Cook until golden, then flip and repeat.

🍽️ **How to Serve**

Slice the Cubano sandwich in half and serve warm. Pair it with a side of plantain chips or a light salad for a complete meal.

💡 **Pro Tips**

- For the best flavor, marinate the pork overnight.

- Use a panini press if you have one for easier pressing.

- If you have leftover pork, use it in other dishes like tacos or quesadillas.

🔥 **Why You’ll Love This**

This Cubano sandwich is not just a meal; it’s an experience! The combination of flavors and textures—from the crispy bread to the tender pork and melted cheese—creates a sandwich that is truly unforgettable. Plus, the process of making it allows you to appreciate the artistry behind this cultural classic. Enjoy every bite!