Kamil Perry
The Cuban sandwich, or Cubano, is a popular American sandwich that originated in the late 1800s to early 1900s in cafes catering to Cuban workers in Tampa and Key West, Florida. The sandwich is made with ham, mojo, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard, and sometimes salami on Cuban bread. The inclusion of Swiss cheese in the Cuban sandwich is a topic of curiosity for some, with speculation that it was influenced by German or European Jewish immigrants in the region. While the exact reason for its inclusion may be unclear, the combination of Swiss cheese with the other ingredients creates a delicious and popular sandwich.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Origin | Likely in cafes catering to Cuban workers in Tampa or Key West, two early Cuban immigrant communities in Florida. |
| Bread | Cuban bread, French bread or Italian bread |
| Meat | Ham, roast pork, salami (in Tampa) |
| Cheese | Swiss cheese |
| Other ingredients | Pickles, mustard, garlic butter, mojo |
| Preparation | Toasted in a sandwich press called a plancha or panini press, or grilled |
| Variants | Miami Cubano (without salami), Tampa Cubano (with salami) |
| Substitutes | Mature Gouda, Emmental, Edam, Jarlsberg, Maasdam, Leerdamer |
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What You'll Learn
Swiss cheese is a European Jewish immigrant influence
The Cuban sandwich, or Cubano, is a variation of a ham and cheese sandwich that likely originated in the late 1800s to early 1900s in cafes catering to Cuban workers in Tampa and Key West, Florida. The sandwich was introduced to Miami later, by Cuban exiles and expatriates, where it is also very popular. The traditional Cuban sandwich is made with ham, mojo, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard, and sometimes salami on Cuban bread.
The inclusion of Swiss cheese in the Cuban sandwich can be attributed to European Jewish immigrant influence. While there is some debate about the specific origins of the sandwich and its ingredients, sources suggest that the Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard in the Cuban sandwich can be traced back to the influence of European Jewish immigrants in Ybor City, Tampa. Ybor City was founded by cigar manufacturer Vicente Martinez-Ybor in the mid-1880s, attracting tens of thousands of Cuban, Spanish, and Italian workers over the following decades. This cultural melting pot likely contributed to the unique blend of flavours in the Cuban sandwich.
One theory suggests that the European Jewish immigrants in Ybor City may have influenced the inclusion of Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard in the Cuban sandwich. While observant Jews would typically not consume a pork sandwich or mix meat with cheese, secular or ethnic Jewish immigrants may have incorporated these ingredients into their diets. Additionally, it is possible that other immigrants noticed the popularity of pickles and mustard in Jewish delis and adopted these ingredients into their own culinary traditions, resulting in the creation of the Cuban sandwich.
The choice of Swiss cheese specifically may be due to its availability and popularity in the region at the time. Swiss cheese, with its distinctive flavour and melting properties, adds a unique touch to the sandwich. However, some have expressed disappointment with the choice of Swiss cheese, noting that other cheeses may have resulted in a more cohesive and melted sandwich.
In conclusion, the inclusion of Swiss cheese in the Cuban sandwich is a testament to the cultural diversity and influences that shaped the cuisine of Tampa and, by extension, Florida. The European Jewish immigrants, alongside Cubans, Spaniards, and Italians, left an indelible mark on the culinary landscape, resulting in the beloved and iconic Cuban sandwich that continues to be enjoyed today.
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Tampa Cubans include salami, Miami Cubans don't
The Cuban sandwich is a variation of a ham and cheese sandwich that likely originated in the late 1800s to early 1900s in cafes catering to Cuban workers in Tampa or Key West. Later, Cuban exiles brought it to Miami, where it is also very popular. The sandwich is made with ham, mojo, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard, and sometimes salami on Cuban bread. The inclusion of salami is a matter of regional variation, with Tampa Cubans including it and Miami Cubans omitting it. This difference has become a point of friendly rivalry between the two cities, with each claiming that their version of the Cuban sandwich is the true original.
The reason for the inclusion of salami in the Tampa Cuban sandwich can be traced back to the early days of the cigar industry in Ybor City, Tampa. During this time, Cubans, Spaniards, and Italians worked side by side in the cigar factories, and the influence of Italian immigrants led to the inclusion of Genoa salami in the Tampa Cuban sandwich. This recipe has remained consistent for decades and is considered a "complete meal" by some.
On the other hand, Miami Cubans traditionally do not include salami in their sandwiches. Miami Mayor Tomas Regalado even referred to the inclusion of salami as a "sacrilege", stating that "salami is for pizza". The larger Cuban community in Miami, which developed in the late 20th century due to an influx of Cuban residents after Fidel Castro's rise to power, has led to the city becoming more closely associated with the Cuban sandwich in recent times.
Despite the friendly rivalry between Tampa and Miami, there is no clear right or wrong answer when it comes to the inclusion of salami in a Cuban sandwich. Both cities are considered to be home to some of the best Cuban sandwiches in the country, and the regional variation simply adds to the richness and diversity of this beloved sandwich.
In conclusion, the Tampa Cuban sandwich includes salami, while the Miami Cuban sandwich traditionally does not. This difference in ingredients has sparked a long-running friendly rivalry between the two cities, with each claiming that their version is the authentic Cuban sandwich. However, both variations have their own unique histories and cultural influences, contributing to the overall popularity and enjoyment of the Cuban sandwich as a whole.
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Swiss cheese is a poor emulation of Emmenthal
The Cuban sandwich is a variation of a ham and cheese sandwich that likely originated in the late 1800s and early 1900s in cafes catering to Cuban workers in Tampa and Key West, Florida. The sandwich is made with ham, mojo, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, mustard, and sometimes salami on Cuban bread.
The inclusion of Swiss cheese in a Cuban sandwich is a topic of discussion among enthusiasts. Some people believe that Swiss cheese is a poor emulation of Emmenthal, a type of cheese that is more commonly used in Europe. Indeed, Swiss cheese is a processed cheese, and some may consider it inferior to other types of cheese that could be used in a Cuban sandwich.
Emmenthal cheese, on the other hand, is a natural cheese with a more complex flavor profile. It has a slightly nutty and sweet taste, with a hint of sharpness. It also has a firmer texture than Swiss cheese, which can make it a better choice for a grilled sandwich like the Cuban.
Additionally, Emmenthal cheese is known for its distinctive large holes, which are formed during the cheesemaking process. These holes allow the cheese to melt more evenly and can improve the overall texture of the sandwich.
For those who have access to Emmenthal cheese, it can be a worthwhile alternative to Swiss cheese in a Cuban sandwich. It can provide a more authentic and flavorful experience, capturing the essence of the sandwich's Cuban and European influences.
However, it is important to note that the choice of cheese ultimately comes down to personal preference. Some people may prefer the milder flavor and smoother texture of Swiss cheese, especially if they are looking for a more traditional American take on the Cuban sandwich.
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German immigrants contributed mustard and Swiss cheese
The Cuban sandwich, or Cubano, is a variation of a ham and cheese sandwich that likely originated in the late 1800s to early 1900s in cafes catering to Cuban workers in Tampa and Key West, Florida. The sandwich was popular among the large Cuban, Spanish, and Italian immigrant communities in the region, centred around the cigar industry.
The inclusion of Swiss cheese and mustard in the Cuban sandwich can be attributed to the influence of German immigrants in Tampa, Florida. German immigrants lived side by side with Cubans and other immigrant groups in Ybor City, the historic immigrant community in Tampa founded by cigar manufacturer Vicente Martinez-Ybor in the mid-1880s. This cultural exchange led to the development of unique culinary traditions, including the Cuban sandwich.
While there is some variation in the ingredients used in Cuban sandwiches, Swiss cheese and mustard are commonly accepted as essential components. The Swiss cheese adds a creamy texture and mild flavour to the sandwich, complementing the bold flavours of the seasoned pork and ham. The mustard, often yellow mustard, provides a tangy and zesty contrast to the other ingredients.
The exact type of Swiss cheese used in Cuban sandwiches can vary. In the Netherlands, for example, Emmental or Jarlsberg are popular substitutes for the "American Swiss Cheese." Some also suggest that mature Gouda or Edam would be suitable alternatives, adding a stronger flavour to the sandwich.
The Cuban sandwich has become a beloved staple in Florida and beyond, with regional variations emerging over time. The inclusion or exclusion of salami, for instance, has led to a friendly rivalry between Tampa and Miami, with Tampa including salami due to Italian influence and Miami typically omitting it.
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Swiss cheese is added in two layers
The Cuban sandwich, or Cubano, is a variation of a ham and cheese sandwich that likely originated in the late 1800s to the early 1900s in cafes catering to Cuban workers in Tampa and Key West, Florida. The traditional Cuban sandwich starts with Cuban bread, which is sliced, lightly buttered or brushed with olive oil, and cut in half horizontally. The sandwich is then layered with meats and other ingredients, including roast pork, glazed ham, and sometimes salami (depending on the region).
After the first layer of meat and pickles, another layer of Swiss cheese is added. This second layer of cheese helps to hold the sandwich together and creates a melty, gooey texture when the sandwich is heated. The top piece of bread is then spread with yellow mustard and placed on top of the sandwich. Some people also add garlic butter or schmear to the sandwich for extra flavour. Once assembled, the Cuban sandwich is typically toasted in a sandwich press called a plancha or a panini press, which heats and compresses the sandwich. The sandwich is grilled or toasted until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
The inclusion of Swiss cheese in the Cuban sandwich is said to be influenced by German immigrants who lived in Tampa, Florida, along with European Jewish immigrants who brought their culinary traditions to the region. The Swiss cheese in a Cuban sandwich adds a creamy, savoury element to the sandwich and complements the other ingredients, such as the tangy pickles and zesty mustard. The two layers of Swiss cheese ensure that every bite of the Cuban sandwich is packed with flavour and that the cheese melts evenly throughout the sandwich when heated.
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Frequently asked questions
Swiss cheese is said to have been brought to the Cuban sandwich by German immigrants in Tampa, Florida.
Some alternatives to Swiss cheese that can be used in a Cuban sandwich include Emmental, Edam, Finlandia Swiss, mature Gouda, Jarlsberg, Maasdam, and Leerdamer.
A Cuban sandwich is made with ham, mojo, roasted pork, pickles, mustard, and sometimes salami on Cuban bread. Salami is included in Tampa but is not usually included in South Florida.
To make a Cuban sandwich, slice a loaf of Cuban bread in half lengthwise. Lightly butter or brush the crust with olive oil, and cut it in half horizontally. Spread yellow mustard on the bread and add the meats in layers: roast pork, glazed ham, and sometimes salami. Add Swiss cheese and thinly sliced dill pickles. Once assembled, a Cuban sandwich can be toasted in a sandwich press called a plancha, which is similar to a panini press.
