Inspired by: @iszy
Craving the iconic flavors of a Cuban sandwich but looking for a delicious plant-based version? This recipe delivers all the savory, tangy, and cheesy goodness you love, made remarkably easy with fantastic vegan deli meat alternatives. It's the perfect solution for a quick lunch, a satisfying dinner, or even a unique addition to your next Epic Vegan Charcuterie Board. Get ready to assemble a sandwich that will transport your taste buds!
This recipe highlights the incredible variety available in vegan meats, showcasing how brands are innovating to offer diverse flavors for specific culinary needs. You'll be amazed at how easily these plant-based ingredients come together to create a nostalgic and flavorful experience.
Why You'll Love This Easy Vegan Cuban Sandwich
This recipe is designed for anyone seeking a convenient, flavorful, and completely plant-based take on a classic. Whether you're a seasoned vegan, exploring meat alternatives, or simply looking for new lunch ideas, this sandwich solves the problem of finding a hearty, satisfying meal that's quick to prepare. It's especially great for:
- Busy weeknights when you need a fast and tasty dinner.
- Weekend gatherings where you want a crowd-pleasing, unique sandwich.
- Anyone who loves the complex flavors of a Cuban sandwich without animal products.
- Showcasing how versatile and delicious seitan and other plant-based deli slices can be.
As @iszy raves, "It's so cool how The Herbivorous Butcher has such a wide variety of vegan meats. They're all flavored differently as well, so you can really hone in what you need for specific recipes." This recipe truly lets that plant-based "Cuban pork" shine!
Ingredients
- 2 slices Cuban bread or crusty French bread
- 1 tbsp vegan butter or margarine
- 2-3 oz The Herbivorous Butcher Plant-Based Cuban Pork (or similar seasoned seitan or smoked tofu alternative)
- 2-3 slices Tofurky Plant-Based Ham Slices (or preferred vegan ham alternative)
- 2 slices Daiya Oat Milk Swiss Style Block (or preferred vegan swiss cheese alternative)
- 1 tbsp Yellow mustard or Dijon mustard
- 4-5 dill pickle slices
Equipment
- Cast iron skillet or griddle
- Spatula
- Sandwich press or another heavy pan (for pressing)
Instructions: Crafting Your Vegan Cuban Sandwich
Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 8-10 minutes Servings: 1
- Prepare the Vegan Meats: If using The Herbivorous Butcher Plant-Based Cuban Pork, slice it into thin strips.
- Sauté the Meats: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced plant-based Cuban pork and Tofurky ham slices. Fry for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly browned and warmed through. This step is key for flavor and texture, as @iszy noted, "Cutting these into strips then frying them on the cast iron with Tofurky slices was such a great idea!" Remove from skillet and set aside.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Spread mustard evenly on one side of each slice of Cuban bread. On one slice of bread, layer the plant-based Cuban pork, followed by the Tofurky ham slices, then the dill pickles, and finally the vegan swiss cheese slices. Top with the second slice of bread, mustard-side down.
- Grill the Sandwich: Melt vegan butter in the same cast iron skillet over medium-low heat. Place the assembled sandwich in the skillet.
- Press and Cook: Place a heavy pan (like another cast iron skillet or a sandwich press) on top of the sandwich to press it down. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the vegan cheese is wonderfully melted. "The Daiya oat milk swiss melted so wonderfully on the sandwich as well," confirms @iszy.
- Serve Hot: Carefully remove the sandwich from the skillet, slice diagonally if desired, and serve immediately. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors!
Variations and Adaptations
- Gluten-Free Option: Use your favorite gluten-free bread and ensure your plant-based meats and cheese are certified gluten-free. Many seitan products contain gluten, so look for tofu or mushroom-based alternatives.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the mustard layer for a kick.
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with other vegan cheese slices like provolone or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
- Charcuterie Board Star: As @iszy cleverly suggests, the seasoned plant-based Cuban pork is "great just on a cold sandwich or on a Epic Vegan Charcuterie Board!"
- Wrap It: Instead of bread, wrap the ingredients in a large tortilla or lettuce wraps for a lighter meal.
Tips for the Perfect Vegan Cuban
- Don't Skimp on the Pressing: A key to a great Cuban sandwich is the crisp, flattened bread. If you don't have a sandwich press, a heavy cast iron skillet or a brick wrapped in foil works perfectly!
- Quality Vegan Deli Meats Matter: The flavor of your plant-based "pork" and "ham" will make a huge difference. The Herbivorous Butcher's Cuban pork is praised for its excellent seasoning. Explore other great brands on abillion!
- Hot Skillet, Medium Heat: Ensure your skillet is hot enough to toast the bread and melt the cheese, but not so hot that it burns the bread before the cheese is fully gooey.
- Serve Immediately: Cuban sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh off the press while the cheese is still warm and melted.
Related Articles
Looking for more easy and delicious vegan recipes? Check out these inspiring ideas from abillion:
- Sweet & Savory Tahini Salad Recipe: Discover how tahini can elevate your salads!
- Easy Homemade Vegan Falafel Bowl with Charred Eggplant & Tahini: Whip up a flavorful and healthy bowl in no time.
- Vegan BLT Tempeh Sandwich - Smoky, Savory and Delicious!: Try another classic sandwich, reimagined!
- Quick & Easy Vegan Jackfruit Gyros: Explore more amazing vegan meat alternatives.
- Epic Vegan Charcuterie Board: Find more inspiration for entertaining.
Images
Ready to try this amazing vegan Cuban sandwich? Make it today and share your creations on abillion! We'd love to see your take on this plant-based classic.
