Name: Cuban Sloppy Joes Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: Cuban
Ingredients: 2 tbsp canola oil; 1½ pounds Ground Pork; 2 garlic cloves; 2 tbsp light brown sugar; 1 tsp ground allspice; 2 tsp ground coriander; ½ tsp kosher salt; ¼ tsp coarse ground black pepper; 2 tsp paprika; 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce; 1 lime; 1 cup chicken stock; 1 cup tomato sauce; 4 brioche buns; 8 swiss cheese slices; ½ cup sliced pickles; mustard

Transform your mealtime routine with these delicious Cuban sloppy joes. This dish marries the vibrant flavors of Cuban cuisine with the comforting, messy goodness of a classic sloppy joe. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, these sandwiches are sure to impress your taste buds and leave you craving more.

Photos of Cuban Sloppy Joes Recipe

When shopping for this recipe, you might need to hunt down some less common ingredients like ground allspice and ground coriander. These spices bring an essential depth and warmth to the dish, so make sure to pick them up at the supermarket. Additionally, brioche buns and Swiss cheese might not be on your usual list, but they are crucial for achieving the perfect texture and flavor balance.

Ingredients for Cuban Sloppy Joes

canola oil: A neutral oil perfect for cooking the pork without overpowering other flavors.

ground pork: The star protein of the dish, providing a rich and savory base.

garlic cloves: Adds a robust, aromatic flavor essential in many savory dishes.

light brown sugar: Brings a touch of sweetness to balance the savory components.

ground allspice: Offers a warm, spicy note that is key to the Cuban flavor profile.

ground coriander: Adds a citrusy, slightly sweet flavor that complements the dish.

kosher salt: Enhances the overall flavor of the dish.

coarse ground black pepper: Provides a bit of heat and depth.

paprika: Adds a mild, sweet pepper flavor and beautiful color.

Worcestershire sauce: Contributes a tangy, umami-rich depth.

lime: Fresh juice and zest add brightness and acidity.

chicken stock: Adds moisture and depth to the pork mixture.

tomato sauce: Creates a rich, flavorful base for the sloppy joes.

brioche buns: Soft, buttery buns that are perfect for holding the juicy filling.

Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully over the hot pork mixture, adding a creamy element.

sliced pickles: Provide a tangy crunch that contrasts nicely with the rich pork.

mustard: Adds a sharp, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the meat.

One reader, Ardyce Campos says:

This Cuban sloppy joes recipe is a delightful twist on a classic! The spices blend perfectly with the pork, and the addition of pickles and mustard adds a fantastic tang. Easy to make and absolutely delicious!

Ardyce Campos

Key Techniques for Preparing Cuban Sloppy Joes

How to crumble ground pork: Use a spatula to break the pork into small pieces as it cooks in the skillet. How to zest a lime: Use a microplane or a fine grater to remove the outer green layer of the lime, avoiding the white pith. How to toast buns: Place the buns on a skillet or in a toaster until they are golden brown and slightly crispy.

How To Make Cuban Sloppy Joes

Enjoy a Mediterranean taste of your favorite Sloppy Jos with this Cuban Sloppy Joes made with seasoned pork tossed with citrus and topped with mustard.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 20 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

2tbspcanola oil
1½poundsground pork
2garlic cloves,minced
2tbsplight brown sugar
1tspground allspice
2tspground coriander
½tspkosher salt
¼tspcoarse ground black pepper
2tsppaprika
1tspworcestershire sauce
1lime,zested and juiced
1cupchicken stock
1cuptomato sauce
4brioche buns
8swiss cheese slices
½cupsliced pickles
mustard,optional

Instructions

Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat then add in the pork, crumbling it up with a spatula as it cooks for 5 to 7 minutes.
Lower the heat to medium and add in the garlic, brown sugar, allspice, coriander, kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, lime juice, and lime zest, stirring and cooking for 2 to 3 minutes.
Add in the stock and tomato sauce stirring well then let reduce for 5 to 7 minutes.
Scoop onto toasted buns, top with Swiss cheese, and another spoonful of the pork mixture with pickles and mustard on top.

Nutrition

Calories: 912.04kcal
Fat: 61.70g
Saturated Fat: 24.51g
Trans Fat: 0.03g
Monounsaturated Fat: 25.60g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.81g
Carbohydrates: 38.35g
Fiber: 3.47g
Sugar: 11.56g
Protein: 50.96g
Cholesterol: 175.79mg
Sodium: 999.00mg
Calcium: 580.26mg
Potassium: 924.33mg
Iron: 4.54mg
Vitamin A: 169.89µg
Vitamin C: 12.08mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Perfecting Cuban Sloppy Joes

When browning the ground pork, make sure to break it up into small, even pieces. This ensures that the meat cooks evenly and allows for better absorption of the spices and liquids added later.

Time-Saving Tips for Making Cuban Sloppy Joes Recipe

Pre-measure ingredients: Measure out all ingredients before you start cooking to streamline the process.

Use pre-minced garlic: Save time by using pre-minced garlic instead of mincing fresh cloves.

Pre-toast buns: Toast the brioche buns in advance and keep them warm in the oven.

Batch cook pork: Cook a larger batch of ground pork and freeze portions for future meals.

Use a food processor: Quickly chop garlic and other spices using a food processor.

Pre-slice pickles: Slice the pickles ahead of time and store them in the fridge.

Simplify seasoning: Mix all spices together in a small bowl before adding to the pork.

Substitute Ingredients For Cuban Sloppy Joes Recipe

canola oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a similar cooking medium and adds a slightly richer flavor.
ground pork - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey is a leaner option and absorbs flavors well.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, though fresh garlic provides a more robust flavor.
light brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds sweetness and a slight floral note.
ground allspice - Substitute with ground cinnamon and cloves: A mix of cinnamon and cloves can mimic the warm, spicy flavor of allspice.
ground coriander - Substitute with ground cumin: Ground cumin offers a different but complementary earthy flavor.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and salinity.
coarse ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat with a slightly different flavor profile.
paprika - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika adds a smoky depth to the dish.
worcestershire sauce - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce provides umami and saltiness, though it lacks the tanginess of Worcestershire sauce.
lime - Substitute with lemon: Lemon provides a similar acidity and brightness.
chicken stock - Substitute with vegetable stock: Vegetable stock is a good alternative for a similar depth of flavor.
tomato sauce - Substitute with crushed tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes offer a similar consistency and flavor.
brioche buns - Substitute with potato buns: Potato buns are soft and slightly sweet, making them a good alternative.
swiss cheese slices - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone has a similar meltability and mild flavor.
sliced pickles - Substitute with pickled jalapeños: Pickled jalapeños add a spicy kick and tanginess.
mustard - Substitute with dijon mustard: Dijon mustard provides a similar tangy flavor with a bit more complexity.

Presentation Tips for Serving Cuban Sloppy Joes

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the Cuban Sloppy Joes as a gourmet slider. Use mini brioche buns to create an elegant, bite-sized version of the dish.
Use high-quality ingredients: Ensure the ground pork is fresh and of the highest quality. Opt for artisanal pickles and mustard to elevate the flavors.
Plate with precision: Place the bottom half of the toasted brioche bun on a pristine white plate. Add a generous spoonful of the pork mixture, ensuring it is neatly contained.
Add visual appeal: Layer two slices of Swiss cheese over the pork mixture, allowing it to melt slightly for a visually appealing presentation.
Garnish thoughtfully: Arrange thin slices of pickles in a fan shape on top of the Swiss cheese. Add a delicate drizzle of mustard in a zigzag pattern for a touch of color and flavor.
Finish with finesse: Place the top half of the brioche bun slightly askew to reveal the layers inside. Serve with a small side of lime wedges for an added burst of freshness.
Create a balanced plate: Accompany the Cuban Sloppy Joe slider with a small, artistically arranged salad of mixed greens, lightly dressed with a citrus vinaigrette to complement the flavors of the dish.
Highlight textures: Ensure the pork mixture is moist and tender, the brioche bun is toasted to a light crisp, and the pickles provide a satisfying crunch.
Use elegant serving ware: Present the dish on a sleek, modern plate with a minimalist design to allow the vibrant colors and textures of the Cuban Sloppy Joe to stand out.
Pay attention to detail: Wipe the edges of the plate clean to ensure a pristine presentation. Add a small sprig of fresh herbs, such as cilantro, for a final touch of elegance.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Cuban Sloppy Joes

Large skillet: Used for browning the ground pork and cooking the mixture with spices and liquids.
Spatula: Essential for crumbling the ground pork and stirring the ingredients together.
Measuring spoons: Needed for accurately measuring the spices, oil, and other small quantity ingredients.
Garlic press: Handy for mincing the garlic cloves quickly and efficiently.
Citrus zester: Used to zest the lime for added flavor in the pork mixture.
Juicer: Helps in extracting the juice from the lime.
Measuring cup: Necessary for measuring the chicken stock and tomato sauce.
Toaster: Used to toast the brioche buns before assembling the sloppy joes.
Knife: For slicing the pickles if they are not pre-sliced.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for slicing the pickles and preparing other ingredients.
Serving spoon: Used to scoop the pork mixture onto the toasted buns.
Cheese slicer: Optional, but useful if you need to slice the Swiss cheese from a block.
Plates: For serving the assembled Cuban sloppy joes.

Storage and Freezing Instructions for Cuban Sloppy Joes

Let the Cuban sloppy joe mixture cool completely before storing or freezing.
To store in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled mixture to an airtight container and keep it refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
When ready to serve, reheat the mixture in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally. You may need to add a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen the mixture if it has thickened during storage.
To freeze, transfer the cooled mixture to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, removing as much air as possible before sealing. Label the container with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
To reheat from frozen, thaw the mixture overnight in the refrigerator. Once thawed, transfer the mixture to a skillet and reheat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You may need to add a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen the mixture if it has thickened during freezing.
It's best to store the Cuban sloppy joe mixture separately from the brioche buns, Swiss cheese, and other toppings. Assemble the sandwiches just before serving for the best texture and flavor.

How To Reheat Leftover Cuban Sloppy Joes

Reheat the cuban sloppy joe mixture in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. This method ensures that the flavors meld together and the mixture remains moist. If the mixture seems too thick, add a splash of chicken stock or water to thin it out.
For a quick and easy reheating method, place the leftover cuban sloppy joe mixture in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until heated through. This method is fast but may result in a slightly drier texture.
To reheat the cuban sloppy joes in the oven, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the mixture in an oven-safe dish, cover it with foil, and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This method is ideal if you're reheating a large quantity of leftovers.
For a crispy twist, place the leftover cuban sloppy joe mixture on a baking sheet and top it with shredded swiss cheese. Broil in the oven for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Serve the mixture on toasted brioche buns for a delicious and satisfying meal.
If you have leftover brioche buns, slice them in half and toast them in a skillet with a bit of butter before reheating the cuban sloppy joe mixture. This will add a nice crunch and buttery flavor to the dish.

Interesting Trivia About Cuban Sloppy Joes

A unique twist on the traditional sloppy joe, this Cuban version incorporates ground pork and spices like allspice and coriander, giving it a distinct flavor profile. The addition of lime juice and zest adds a refreshing citrus note, while Swiss cheese and pickles provide a delightful contrast in texture and taste.

Is Making Cuban Sloppy Joes at Home Cost-Effective?

This Cuban Sloppy Joes recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Ground pork is generally affordable, and the other ingredients like garlic, brown sugar, and spices are pantry staples. Brioche buns and Swiss cheese might be slightly pricier, but they elevate the dish. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15-$20 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Are Cuban Sloppy Joes Healthy or Unhealthy?

This Cuban sloppy joes recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:

High saturated fat content from the ground pork and Swiss cheese
Refined carbohydrates in the brioche buns
Added sugars from the brown sugar and tomato sauce
Relatively high sodium levels from the salt, Worcestershire sauce, and pickles

However, the recipe does include some beneficial ingredients like garlic, spices (allspice, coriander, paprika), and lime juice, which offer antioxidants and flavor without adding excess calories.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Swap ground pork for lean ground turkey or chicken to reduce saturated fat
Use whole wheat buns instead of brioche to increase fiber intake
Reduce the amount of brown sugar or use a natural sweetener like honey
Opt for low-sodium chicken stock and tomato sauce to control salt levels
Add more vegetables to the mix, such as diced bell peppers or onions, to boost nutrient density
Use reduced-fat Swiss cheese or a smaller amount of regular Swiss cheese
Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables to balance out the meal

Editor's Take on This Cuban-Inspired Dish

This Cuban-inspired sloppy joe recipe offers a delightful twist on a classic. The combination of ground pork with aromatic spices like allspice and coriander creates a rich, flavorful base. The addition of lime juice adds a refreshing tang, while the chicken stock and tomato sauce provide depth. Topping the mixture with Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on a brioche bun adds layers of texture and taste. Overall, it's a well-balanced dish that brings a unique fusion of flavors, making it a standout option for a hearty, satisfying meal.

Enhance Your Cuban Sloppy Joes Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Tropical Mango Salad: Elevate your Cuban Sloppy Joes with a refreshing Tropical Mango Salad. The vibrant colors and sweet, tangy flavors of mango, avocado, and red onion will perfectly complement the savory richness of the pork mixture. A light citrus vinaigrette ties it all together, making each bite a burst of tropical delight.

Crispy Plantain Chips: Add a crunchy contrast to your meal with Crispy Plantain Chips. These golden, fried slices of plantain offer a delightful crunch and a hint of sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the bold flavors of the sloppy joes. Serve them with a side of garlic aioli for an extra layer of flavor.

Black Bean and Corn Salsa: Brighten up your plate with a zesty Black Bean and Corn Salsa. This colorful mix of black beans, corn, tomatoes, and cilantro adds a fresh, vibrant touch to your meal. The salsa's tangy and slightly spicy notes will enhance the savory goodness of the pork filling.

Coconut Rice: Transport your taste buds to the Caribbean with a side of Coconut Rice. The creamy, slightly sweet coconut milk infused rice provides a perfect balance to the rich and spicy flavors of the Cuban Sloppy Joes. A sprinkle of toasted coconut flakes on top adds a delightful texture.

Grilled Pineapple: Finish your meal with a touch of sweetness by serving Grilled Pineapple. The caramelized edges and juicy interior of the pineapple slices offer a delightful contrast to the savory pork mixture. A hint of cinnamon and honey glaze will make this side dish an unforgettable addition to your Cuban feast.

Similar Recipes to Try If You Love Cuban Sloppy Joes

Cuban Picadillo: A delightful ground beef dish simmered with tomato sauce, green olives, and raisins, served over a bed of fluffy white rice.

Ropa Vieja: Shredded beef slow-cooked with bell peppers, onions, and tomato sauce, perfect for a hearty meal with black beans and plantains.

Cuban Sandwich: A classic sandwich with roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, pressed to perfection on Cuban bread.

Arroz Con Pollo: A flavorful one-pot meal of chicken and rice cooked with saffron, peas, and red bell peppers, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Lechon Asado: Succulent roast pork marinated in mojo sauce made from garlic, citrus, and oregano, served with yuca and black beans.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Cuban Sloppy Joes Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Plantain Cups: Transform ripe plantains into delightful cups filled with a savory blend of black beans, corn, and bell peppers. The sweetness of the plantains perfectly complements the spiced vegetable mixture, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Top each cup with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a vibrant and satisfying starter.

Cuban Shrimp Cocktail: Elevate your appetizer game with a Cuban-inspired twist on the classic shrimp cocktail. Marinate succulent shrimp in a zesty blend of lime juice, garlic, and cilantro. Serve the shrimp chilled with a tangy avocado salsa that combines diced avocados, tomatoes, and red onions. This refreshing and flavorful dish is sure to impress your guests.

Desserts:

Tres Leches Cake: Indulge in the rich, moist texture of a Tres Leches Cake. This classic Latin American dessert is soaked in three types of milk, creating a luscious and creamy experience. Top it with a generous layer of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for an extra touch of decadence. Serve it chilled for a refreshing end to your meal.

Churros with Chocolate Sauce: For a delightful treat, try Churros with Chocolate Sauce. These crispy, golden pastries are rolled in cinnamon sugar and paired with a warm, velvety chocolate dipping sauce. The contrast of the crunchy exterior and the soft, doughy interior makes each bite irresistible. Perfect for sharing, these churros are a fun and interactive way to end your meal.

Why trust this Cuban Sloppy Joes Recipe:

This recipe combines the rich flavors of ground pork, garlic, and spices to create a unique twist on the classic sloppy joe. The addition of lime juice and zest adds a refreshing citrus note, while chicken stock and tomato sauce ensure a moist and flavorful filling. Topped with Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, this dish offers a delightful balance of savory and tangy elements. Trust this recipe for its well-rounded flavors and easy-to-follow instructions.

Share your thoughts on this Cuban Sloppy Joes Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know how it turned out for you!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of meat instead of ground pork?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground pork with ground beef, chicken, or turkey. Just keep in mind that the flavor might change slightly depending on the meat you choose.

How do I toast the brioche buns?

I usually toast the brioche buns by placing them cut-side down on a hot skillet or griddle for a couple of minutes until they’re golden brown. You can also toast them in a toaster or under a broiler, but keep an eye on them so they don’t burn.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can make the pork mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat it on the stove and assemble your sloppy joes.

What kind of pickles should I use?

I prefer using dill pickles for their tangy flavor, but you can use bread and butter pickles if you like a sweeter taste. It’s really up to your personal preference.

Is there a way to make this recipe spicier?

Definitely! You can add some crushed red pepper flakes, a dash of hot sauce, or even some diced jalapeños to the pork mixture while it’s cooking. Adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance.