Classic Cuban Midnight (Medianoche) Sandwich

This is one of the more famous sandwiches straight out of the island of Cuba. This recipe came from my uncle who used to work at a restaurant in Pinar del Rio, Cuba and now works at a Cuban cafeteria here in Miami. This sandwich is best served with fried plantain chips and a cold mamey milkshake!

• Preparation Time: 15 mins
• Cooking Time: 8 mins
• Total Time: 23 mins
• Calories: 1453 Calories

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter, melted
• 1 pound thinly sliced cooked ham
• 1 cup dill pickle slices
• 1 pound sliced Swiss cheese
• 4 sweet bread rolls
• 1 pound thinly sliced fully cooked pork
• 0.5 cup mayonnaise
• 0.25 cup prepared mustard

Recipe Instructions

Step 1

Press each sandwich in a sandwich press heated to medium-high heat. If a sandwich press is not available, use a large skillet over medium-high heat, and press the sandwiches down using a sturdy plate or skillet. Some indoor grills may be good for this also. Cook for 5 to 8 minutes, keeping sandwiches pressed. If using a skillet, you may want to flip them once for even browning. Slice diagonally and serve hot.

Step 2

Split the sandwich rolls in half, and spread mustard and mayonnaise liberally onto the cut sides.

Step 3

On each sandwich, place and equal amount of Swiss cheese, ham and pork in exactly that order. Place a few pickles onto each one, and put the top of the roll onto the sandwich. Brush the tops with melted butter.