Are you ready to level up your sandwich game? Well, stick around because we’re diving deep into the ultimate side dish showdown for your next Cuban sandwich adventure. We all know a Cuban sandwich packs a punch with its melty cheese, succulent pork, and that perfect crunch. But what about its sidekick? That’s right, every hero needs a trusty sidekick, and today we’re on a mission to find the perfect partner for your Cuban sandwich. From crispy plantain chips to a zesty black bean salad, get ready to make your taste buds sing with these Top 9 Side for Cuban sandwich. Stay tuned, pick your favorite, and let’s turn that lonely sandwich into a feast!
A Cuban sandwich is a mouthwatering delight that’s popular in Florida, especially in Tampa and Miami, where it’s a big part of the local cuisine. It starts with Cuban bread, which is similar to a baguette but softer and slightly buttery. The bread is layered with juicy roast pork, sweet ham, Swiss cheese, and thinly sliced dill pickles.
Then, the whole sandwich is slathered with mustard (yellow is traditional) and pressed until it’s crispy on the outside and all the cheese inside has melted into the meats, making every bite a perfect blend of savory, sweet, tangy, and crunchy. It’s essentially comfort food packed into a sandwich—a real treat for your taste buds!
A Cuban sandwich usually comes with a simple side that complements its rich and tangy flavors. Since the sandwich itself is packed with taste and texture, the side dish is often light and refreshing.
This helps balance the hearty, meaty filling of the sandwich, enhancing the overall dining experience without overpowering the main star. The choice of side varies, but it typically provides a crisp or cool contrast to the warm, pressed Cuban sandwich. Let’s explore some of the best pairings for a Cuban sandwich:
Crunchy and slightly sweet, plantain chips are a stellar companion for a Cuban sandwich. They share a tropical heritage with the sandwich, making them a culturally harmonious choice. The crispy texture contrasts beautifully with the soft, melted cheese and tender meats of the sandwich, providing a satisfying crunch with each bite.
A fresh black bean salad, with its earthy flavors and zesty lime dressing, pairs well with the rich pork and ham in a Cuban sandwich. It’s a refreshing side that cleanses the palate and adds a nutritious balance to the meal.
Yuca, or cassava, offers a heartier alternative to traditional French fries. These fries are thicker and have a creamy interior with a crispy crust. Their mild flavor complements the strong savory notes of the sandwich, and they’re fantastic dipped in a garlic or cilantro sauce.
Coleslaw adds a creamy and tangy element that meshes well with the mustard and pickles in the sandwich. The crunch of fresh cabbage provides a textural contrast, while the acidity of the dressing cuts through the richness of the meats, balancing the meal beautifully.
A side of Cuban-style rice, often cooked with garlic, lime, and cilantro, offers a light and fragrant complement to the bold flavors of a Cuban sandwich. It absorbs the juices and makes each forkful a delightful blend of Caribbean tastes.
These twice-fried plantain slices are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a robust garlic flavor that stands up well against the hearty ingredients of a Cuban sandwich. Tostones add a delightful crunch and a punch of garlic that enhances the sandwich’s profile.
A jar of tangy pickled vegetables, including carrots, onions, and jalapeños, can cut through the sandwich’s fattiness and refresh your mouth between bites. This side adds a vibrant, acidic burst that highlights the pork’s richness and the cheese’s creaminess.
Their natural sweetness offers a lovely counterbalance to the salty, savory flavors of the Cuban sandwich. Baked or fried, these fries are not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to regular fries, adding a colorful and sweet touch to your plate.
Light and full of fresh flavors, a tomato and avocado salad dressed with olive oil and a sprinkle of salt is the perfect cooling companion for a Cuban sandwich. The creaminess of the avocado and the juiciness of the tomatoes provide a refreshing contrast to the dense, meat-filled sandwich.
Now we pair that Cuban sandwich with some refreshing drinks:
If you’re looking for a true Cuban experience, nothing beats a shot of Cuban coffee. This strong, sweet espresso complements the rich flavors of the sandwich perfectly. It’s an excellent pick-me-up that cuts through the fats of the pork and cheese, revitalizing your taste buds.
For a cooler, more leisurely pairing, a classic Mojito is your go-to. The fresh mint and lime in the Mojito provide a refreshing contrast to the sandwich’s heavy profile. The rum adds a smooth touch that makes it a delightful companion for a laid-back lunch or dinner.
A Cuban soda made from yerba mate. It’s sweet, herbal, and slightly earthy, which makes it a unique beverage choice to complement the bold flavors of a Cuban sandwich. The carbonation helps cleanse the palate, making every bite as enjoyable as the first.
Pairing the right side dishes and drinks with a Cuban sandwich turns a simple meal into a culinary experience.
Opt for crunchy plantain chips or a fresh black bean salad to balance the rich flavors of the sandwich. Sides like yuca fries and garlic tostones add texture and depth.
Don’t forget the drinks—Cuban coffee for a robust kick, a Mojito for a refreshing sip, or a Materva for a unique, sweet touch. Each choice complements the sandwich, enhancing its flavors and transforming your meal into a delightful mix of textures and tastes that keep your palate engaged from start to finish.
Wrapping up, choosing the right sides and drinks for your Cuban sandwich is all about balancing flavors and textures to enhance the overall dining experience. Whether it’s the crunch of plantain chips, the freshness of a black bean salad, or the creaminess of coleslaw, each side dish serves to elevate the rich, savory notes of the sandwich.
Similarly, selecting the perfect beverage—be it the bold kick of Cuban coffee, the refreshing zest of a Mojito, or the unique sweetness of Materva—can turn your meal into a well-rounded feast. Remember, the goal is to complement the sandwich and satisfy your taste buds with a variety of sensations.
So next time you sit down with a Cuban sandwich, consider these pairing options to truly savor each bite. Enjoy the process of mixing and matching, and make your meal a memorable one!