Cubano {Cuban Sandwich} #FoodNFlix

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We’ve finally arrived at part three: my Food ‘n Flix recipe reveal!  I’ve already shared recipes for Pan Cubano and Lechón Asado….did anyone guess today’s recipe?  Or see the sneak peek on Instagram?

If you aren’t familiar, Food ‘n Flix is a fun club in which participants watch a movie and create something inspired by it.  This month’s movie was hosted by Camilla from Culinary Adventures with Camilla.  She chose the movie Chef .

In Chef, Carl (the chef), is struggling to balance family, working in a kitchen, and his creativity.   He is stifled by the restaurant owner, blasted by a food blogger, destroys his career on twitter and then ultimately opens a food truck and finds his passion again.

The description makes it sound boring, but I actually loved this movie!

Plus, there is no shortage of food inspiration! 

Ultimately, I chose to make a Traditional Cuban Sandwich or Cubano, since that is Carl’s specialty when he opens his food truck.

I say traditional, because when I started thinking about making the Cubano, I just couldn’t rationalize making it on my go-to sandwich bread (even though I had some on hand).

I had some leftover ham from Easter, so I set out to making the Pan Cubano (Cuban Bread) and the Lechón Asado (a citrusy Cuban pork roast), to attempt a more authentic Cubano Sandwich.

Once that was complete, it was simply a matter of building the sandwiches. 

You’ll notice that I didn’t include exact amounts in the recipe, because it is so dependant on personal preference and what you have on hand.  Like a larger sandwich?  Cut the bread bigger!  Only have a little ham on hand?  Add more pork!

No matter what, this more traditional version of a Cubano is going to be absolutely delicious!

I’m so glad Chef was this month’s movie choice!  Without it, I never would have seen the movie, nor would have I challenged myself to make a traditional Cubano!

Cubano {Cuban Sandwich}

1 loaf Pan Cubano (CubanBread)

Sliced baked ham

Sliced Lechón Asado (Cuban-Style Roast Pork)

Sliced provolone cheese

Sliced dill pickles

Butter

Mustard (optional)

Cut the bread into 4-5 large chunks.  Split each piece of bread down the center.  Butter each piece on both sides.

Meanwhile preheat a Foreman Grill (or Panini press) and a large pan over medium-high heat.

Place stacks of ham and pork slices into the hot pan.  Add a splash of water and cover to steam the meat.  Cook for 2 minutes or until steaming.  Add a slice of cheese to each stack and cover until the cheese just begins to melt.

Meanwhile, place pickle slices on the bottom bun of each sandwich (add mustard to the top bun, if desired).  Carefully scoop the hot meat and cheese stacks on to the bottom bun (on top of the pickles), top with the second half of each bun and transfer to the Forman grill.  Close the grill and cook until the bun is crisp and golden and the cheese is melted.  Serve immediately with a side of fries.