Plated + Served: Turkey Cubano Sandwich

November27

Don’t throw out those last few pieces of leftover Thanksgiving Turkey… make some Turkey Cubano Sandwiches for everyone… or just for yourself!

I’ve been to Cuba and used to live in Miami so, believe me, I know the debate that rages over not only what makes a true Cubano Sandwich but how to make a Cubano Sandwich.

This much everyone agrees on: A Cubano Sandwich is not a Panini. It is pressed on a sandwich press called a plancha (which is similar to a Panini press but without the grooved edges). I’ve improvised a plancha over the years (see below). Don’t laugh. It really works. (But, yes, you can use a Panini maker). Regardless, what you want to end up with is a thin hot sandwich oozing with cheesy goodness.

This much is also true: The sandwich ingredients are roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, thinly sliced dill pickles and, of course, Cuban bread (which looks like French bread, but is slightly sweet). I can’t find Cuban bread where I live, and I’m too frazzled right now to make it, so I use French bread (but never a baguette) or a bolillo. I scoop out a little of the bread on the inside so it isn’t too “bready.” Oh, and I add a little mustard to my Cubano, even though purists will object.

Swap out the roast pork for the turkey and you’re on your way to a deliciously melty mouthful of heaven. This is like a really dressed up grilled ham and cheese… only better.

Pretty easy, very delicious and the perfect way to wrap up the Thanksgiving holiday… finally!

 

Pressing the Sandwich... You Do What Is Necessary!

Homemade Plancha to press the Sandwich!

 

Plated + Served: Reuben Dogs

October26

OK…what’s your sporting pleasure this weekend? World Series? Notre Dame football? Pro football in London?

Clearly, there’s too much going on to spend a lot of time in the kitchen getting the eats together. But, never fear… that’s where Mama can help.

These Rueben Dogs are a deliciously easy twist on an old deli favorite. In this case, instead of corned beef, we’re using hot dogs, but keeping the sauerkraut, Thousand Island dressing and Swiss cheese… maybe.

What’s great about this recipe is that you can make it as “healthy” as you like by making these substitutions:

• Low or no-nitrate beef, turkey, chicken or tofu hot dogs instead of pork hot dogs.

• Whole wheat, light or gluten-free buns in place of white buns.

• Yogurt-based Thousand Island dressing or reduced-fat Thousand Island dressing instead of regular Thousand Island dressing.

• Fresh or organic sauerkraut instead of canned sauerkraut.

• Reduced fat Swiss cheese in place of regular Swiss cheese.

But, honestly, I’m kinda with GP on this one. These sports-filled weekends only come around once (okay, maybe twice) a year… so you might as well get the most enjoyment out of what you’re eating. Enjoy the Rueben Dog the way you really want to… and promise yourself that you’ll eat healthier the minute the Chicago Cubs make the World Series!!

 

 

 

Hi…
I’m Christina Chavez

I was a TV journalist for many years, but with a house full of kids I decided to come off the road, go to culinary school and follow my passion for cooking. Mama’s High Strung is all about food… everything from creative recipe ideas to some really cool kitchen gadgets and cooking tips. I live in Chicago, but I love to travel and write about my food discoveries! You can reach me by email: mamashighstrung@gmail.com