1-First Step: Prepare the bread and fillings Start with one 8 to 12 inch piece of Cuban bread and slice it horizontally in half. If the loaf is very soft, handle it gently so it does not tear. Gather the butter or olive oil, mustard, ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and salami if you are making the Tampa-style version.

2-Second Step: Brush the outer crusts Brush or spread butter or olive oil on the outside of both bread halves. Focus on the crust, not the inside.

3-Third Step: Add mustard to the inside of the bread Spread yellow mustard on the inside of both halves. Use enough to taste, but do not overload the bread.

4-Fourth Step: Layer the fillings Place the ham on the bottom half of the bread, followed by the roasted pork. If you are making a Tampa-style version, add the salami after the ham and pork. Next, add the Swiss cheese and finish with the sliced pickles.

5-Fifth Step: Close and press the sandwich Top the filling with the other bread half and press down gently with your hands. Then place the sandwich in a plancha, panini press, or hot skillet. If you use a skillet, put a heavy pan, foil-wrapped brick, or another weight on top. Cook over medium heat until the bread is crispy, the cheese melts, and the sandwich compresses.

6-Final Step: Slice and serve hot Once the Cuban Sandwiches are fully heated and compressed, remove them from the press or skillet. Let them rest for a minute so the cheese settles slightly, then cut diagonally into halves. Serve immediately while the bread is still crisp and the center is hot.