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Slow Cooker Cuban Sandwiches

Slow Cooker Cuban Sandwiches

Slow Cooker Cuban Sandwiches bring you the bold, authentic flavors of a classic Cuban sandwich with the convenience of a slow cooker. Tender, slow-cooked pork shoulder paired with smoky ham, melty Swiss cheese, tangy pickles, and yellow mustard are all compressed in toasted Cuban bread or a hearty substitute for an irresistible, melt-in-your-mouth experience perfect for any occasion.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Cheese

  • 2 to 3 pounds pork shoulder
  • 6 to 8 slices ham
  • 6 to 8 slices Swiss cheese

Seasonings and Condiments

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons yellow mustard

Bread and Toppings

  • 1 loaf Cuban bread or crusty baguette (or gluten-free bread for a gluten-free option)
  • Dill pickle slices, as needed

Instructions

  1. Prep and Season the Pork: Rub the pork shoulder thoroughly with minced garlic, ground cumin, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Place the seasoned pork into the slow cooker and cook on low heat for about 8 hours or until the meat is tender and easily shreddable.
  2. Shred and Combine Ingredients: Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded pork to the slow cooker to keep warm and layer it with ham slices, Swiss cheese, and dill pickle slices, allowing the flavors to meld together.
  3. Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread a generous layer of yellow mustard on the Cuban bread or chosen substitute. Stack the shredded pork mixture onto the bread to create your sandwich.
  4. Toast to Perfection: Press the sandwiches on a grill pan, panini press, or in a skillet using a heavy lid or foil-wrapped brick, grilling until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted, ensuring a crispy crust and gooey interior.

Notes

  • Use pork shoulder for optimal juiciness due to its fat content.
  • Season the pork thoroughly for authentic Cuban flavor.
  • Cook low and slow for the best tenderness and flavor development.
  • Toast sandwiches immediately after assembling for a crispy and melty texture.
  • Use fresh pickles to balance the richness with crunch and acidity.

Nutrition

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