Ask any Miami native and they’ll tell you the Cuban sandwich originated in Magic City. (They’ll also vehemently argue that Tampa, try as it might, is not the Cuban sandwich’s hometown.) No matter the sandwich’s true originations, its savory deliciousness is quintessential Miami flavor. Take the taste of the city home and try your hand at making authentic Miami-style Cuban sandwiches.

Prep Time: 5 minutes; Cook Time: 5 minutes (Yields 4 sandwiches)

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Ingredients:

  • 1 loaf Cuban bread (you can substitute French bread if you absolutely must)
  • 4 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 1 pound thinly sliced ham (look for ham with a mild and slightly sweet flavor)
  • 1 pound Cuban pork
  • 1/2 pound baby Swiss cheese
  • Dill pickle slices​

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Directions:

  • Preheat a large frying pan over medium/high heat; add a small amount of butter
  • Cut the bread into large sections (6-8 inches); slice in half lengthwise
  • Spread butter on the insides of both halves of bread
  • Generously layer ingredients in this order: pickles, pork, ham and cheese
  • Place sandwiches on frying pan; press down using a spatula and a very heavy hand (or use a brick wrapped in aluminum foil)
  • Cook until golden brown; flip and repeat
  • Slice each sandwich in half on a diagonal
  • Serve with a generous amount of yellow mustard on the side

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Adapted from Three Guys from Miami’s recipe for Cuban Sandwiches.