The Medianoche sandwich, also known as the Cuban Midnight Sandwich, is a delicious and iconic Cuban sandwich that is slightly sweeter and softer than its traditional counterpart. It gets its name—Medianoche, meaning “midnight” in Spanish—because it’s a favorite late-night snack in Cuban bakeries and cafes.
Made with sweet egg bread, slow-roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and yellow mustard, this sandwich is pressed to crispy perfection. Ready to make one at home? Let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
Ingredients
For the Sandwich:
- 4 medianoche rolls (or substitute with brioche or Hawaiian rolls)
- ½ lb. roasted pork (thinly sliced)
- ½ lb ham (sliced)
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- ½ cup dill pickles (thinly sliced)
- ¼ cup yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons butter (for grilling)
For the Roasted Pork (Lechón Asado): (Optional, if making from scratch)
- 1 lb. pork shoulder or pork loin
- ¼ cup orange juice
- ¼ cup lime juice
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How to Make a Medianoche Sandwich
Step 1: Roast the Pork (Skip if using pre-cooked pork)
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Mix orange juice, lime juice, garlic, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Rub the marinade all over the pork and let it sit for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a pan and sear the pork until browned.
- Transfer to the oven and roast for 45–60 minutes, until tender.
- Let it rest, then slice thinly.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich
- Slice the medianoche roll in half.
- Spread yellow mustard on both sides.
- Layer Swiss cheese, ham, roasted pork, and pickles.
- Close the sandwich and lightly press down.
Step 3: Grill the Sandwich
- Heat a panini press or skillet over medium heat.
- Spread butter on the outside of the bread.
- Place the sandwich in the press (or use a heavy skillet to press it down).
- Grill for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.
- Remove from heat, slice in half, and serve hot.
Tips & Variations
- No Medianoche bread? Use brioche or Hawaiian rolls for a similar soft, slightly sweet texture.
- Want extra crunch? Double the pickles for a tangy bite.
- No panini press? Use a cast-iron skillet and press with another heavy pan.
- Add a thin layer of mojo sauce to the pork for extra Cuban flavor.
Conclusion
The Cuban Medianoche Sandwich is a perfect blend of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors, all grilled into a crispy, melty masterpiece. Whether you enjoy it at midnight or lunchtime, it’s a true taste of Cuban culture that’s easy to make at home!
FAQs
- What’s the difference between a Cuban sandwich and a Medianoche sandwich?
- A Cuban sandwich uses crusty Cuban bread, while a Medianoche is made with softer, sweeter egg bread.
- Can I use store-bought roasted pork?
- Yes! If you’re short on time, use pre-cooked pork loin or leftover pulled pork.
- What can I serve with a Medianoche sandwich?
- Classic sides include plantain chips, yuca fries, or black bean soup.
- How do I store leftover sandwiches?
- Wrap in foil and reheat in a skillet to keep it crispy.
- Can I freeze Medianoche sandwiches?
- You can freeze assembled sandwiches and grill them fresh when ready to eat.
Enjoy your homemade Cuban Midnight Sandwich—a perfect late-night treat! 🥪🔥