This delectable creation is none other than the Cuban Pork Cubanos sandwich straight out of the Chef movie, complete with homemade Mojo Marinated Pork. Interestingly, the culinary genius behind the movie’s delectable fare is none other than the renowned LA Korean-fusion food truck pioneer and rockstar chef, Roy Choi. And the best part? These sandwiches are freezer-friendly!
This recipe is what I like to call the “leftovers” edition, stemming from the Juicy Cuban Mojo Pork Roast I shared last week in reference to the movie “Chef.” I already expressed my enthusiasm for the film in that post, so I won’t delve into it again.
The true stars of the movie, without a doubt, are the Cubanos, those mouthwatering Cuban pork sandwiches. Over the course of my foodie adventures crisscrossing the United States, I’ve encountered my fair share of exceptional sandwiches. However, Cubanos hold a special place in my heart ever since I took that unsuspecting first bite in a random Cuban diner in Miami, not even within the Latin neighborhood but rather on South Beach!
To be honest, I wasn’t even aware that Cubanos were a “thing” at the time. I simply ordered a Cuban sandwich, knowing it surpassed any sandwich I’d ever savored in Australia, even the gourmet ones from upscale bistros. It could even stand up to Shake Shack’s offerings, which says a lot because I’m utterly enamored with American burgers! However, once I returned to Australia, Cubanos slipped into obscurity among the many other fantastic foods we encountered during our U.S. travels.
That was until I watched the Chef movie. It unleashed a tidal wave of memories! The thought of making Cubanos myself didn’t cross my mind until I stumbled upon this Cuban Sandwich recipe by the incredibly talented Kathleen from Hapa Nom Nom (one of my favorite blogs, a boundless source of inspiration). Coincidentally, I received a delivery of pork from Murray Valley Pork, a premium Australian pork range, and it felt like destiny!
I decided to share the Mojo Marinated Pork recipe separately because it’s so splendid that it deserves to shine as the centerpiece roast all on its own (plus, you only need a small portion of leftovers for this recipe). I implore you, if you embark on the Cubano-making journey, don’t skip the Mojo Marinated Pork, especially if you’re in Australia. I can assure you that even the most upscale deli’s pork slices won’t come close to matching the garlicky, herby, and citrusy flavors that permeate homemade Mojo Marinated Pork.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, it’s time for lunch, and I’m going to indulge while pretending I’m back in sunny Miami.
