A Cuban
Whenever I order from fresh direct I get a couple types of deli meat, figuring sandwiches are always an easy meal. Last time I ordered sliced ham and roast pork loin. I didn't realize until I received my order that I had the makings of a cuban - just added some pickles, Swiss cheese and a long roll with a medium-crusty crust and a coarse, holey interior (that way when you press it you end up with a crisp crust and a compacted interior).
I don't have a sandwich press, so I heat a cast-iron skillet while I assemble the sandwiches, then put them in another pan over medium heat and squash them down by placing the hot cast-iron on top and pressing down with my oven-mitted hand. The insides steam and get all melty and hot.
I have made a Cuban before but I hate Swiss cheese! So, I use any other type that I have on hand but leave the rest of the sandwich the same. Comes out quite delicious. I don't have a sandwich press either, or a panini grill, but I do have quite a large George Foreman Grill and it works very well. I find I have to open and shut it twice - use it twice - to get the sandwich as crispy as you can get it at a restaurant.
I have had real Cuban sandwiches - there is a truck that sits in the Pocono Bazaar, which is an outdoor flea market in Marshalls Creek, PA that serves those sandwiches. They are incredible. They are delicious. I just ignore the fact that I am eating Swiss Cheese. The pickles seem to take away from that flavor so I don't mind it as much. Even with this knowledge, I still find I cannot buy Swiss Cheese, and use it in one of those sandwiches. Also, you have to have the right bread. I make my own Cuban Bread if I'm going to make one of these.
I'm glad you find these as good as I do. Have one with a Cuban coffee and all is right with the world.
RisaG