There’s something magical about biting into a perfectly crafted Cuban sandwich: the crispy, golden crust, the soft interior, and the way it holds all the delicious layers of roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard together. But here’s the secret: the bread plays a starring role in making Cuban sandwiches truly authentic.
Store-bought bread might work in a pinch, but making your own Cuban bread at home takes your sandwich game to the next level. Here’s a simple recipe to create that iconic Cuban bread, perfect for your next round of homemade Cuban sandwiches.
What Makes Cuban Bread Unique?
Cuban bread is distinct for its thin, crisp crust and its light, airy interior. Its mild flavor perfectly complements the bold fillings of a Cuban sandwich, letting the ingredients shine without overpowering them. Traditionally, Cuban bread includes a touch of lard, which adds richness and helps achieve the desired texture.
Ingredients
To make your own Cuban bread at home, you’ll need:
- 4 cups all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
- 1/4 cup lard (or vegetable shortening)
- 1 1/2 cups warm water (110°F to 115°F)
- A small bowl of water for baking
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dough
- In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water and yeast. Let it sit for 5 minutes until the yeast is foamy.
- Add the sugar, salt, and lard to the yeast mixture, stirring until the lard dissolves.
- Gradually add the flour, mixing until the dough starts to come together. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 8–10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
Step 2: Let the Dough Rise
- Place the dough in a lightly greased bowl, cover with a damp towel, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it doubles in size.
Step 3: Shape the Loaves
- Punch down the dough and divide it into two equal portions. Shape each portion into a long loaf, about 12 inches in length.
- Place the loaves on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Cover them loosely with a towel and let them rise for another 30–40 minutes.
Step 4: Preheat and Prepare
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place a small bowl of water on the bottom rack of the oven to create steam, which helps form the bread’s crispy crust.
Step 5: Bake the Bread
- Use a sharp knife to score a shallow line down the center of each loaf.
- Bake the loaves for 20–25 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and sound hollow when tapped.
Tips for Perfect Cuban Bread
- Lard Is Key: Traditional Cuban bread gets its signature texture and flavor from lard. If you’re avoiding animal products, vegetable shortening is a good substitute, but lard provides the best results.
- Don’t Skip the Steam: The bowl of water in the oven creates steam that gives the bread its thin, crispy crust.
- Serve Fresh: Cuban bread is best enjoyed fresh. If you’re not using it right away, store it in an airtight container to preserve its texture.
Crafting the Perfect Cuban Sandwich
Once your homemade Cuban bread has cooled, it’s time to assemble your sandwiches. Layer roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard between slices of your freshly baked bread. Then press the sandwich in a hot grill or panini press until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
The result? A sandwich that tastes as authentic as one you’d find in Tampa or Miami, and it all starts with the bread.
Homemade Cuban bread is the foundation of an unforgettable Cuban sandwich. With its crispy crust and soft interior, it elevates every bite, making your sandwiches taste like a little slice of Havana. Whether you’re preparing for a special gathering or simply craving the perfect sandwich, this recipe ensures your Cuban sandwiches will be the talk of the table.
So roll up your sleeves, get baking, and enjoy the delicious rewards of authentic Cuban bread!