Name: Cubano Tacos Recipe
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 whole pork loin; 3½ tsp kosher salt; 2 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil; 2 cloves garlic; ¼ cup brown sugar; ½ tsp ground cumin; ½ tsp smoked paprika; ½ tsp chili powder; ½ cup Apple Spiced Rum; ½ cup Yellow Mustard; 6 tbsp mayonnaise; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 1 tbsp white wine vinegar; 1 tsp Cayenne pepper; 4 cups Shredded Swiss Cheese; 16 pcs flour tortillas; 10 oz smoked deli ham; 1 cup pickles; ⅓ cup fresh cilantro

Cubano tacos are a fusion of traditional Cuban flavors with the beloved taco format. This delectable dish features succulent roasted pork, smoky ham, tangy pickles, and melty Swiss cheese, all wrapped in a soft flour tortilla. The spicy mustard sauce adds a zesty kick, making these tacos a perfect blend of savory, sweet, and spicy.

Photos of Cubano Tacos Recipe

Apple spiced rum and yellow mustard are unique ingredients that might not be in your pantry. Look for the rum in the liquor section and the mustard among condiments at the supermarket.

Ingredients for Cubano Tacos

Pork loin: The main protein, providing a tender and juicy base for the tacos.

Kosher salt: Enhances the flavor of the pork, making it savory and delectable.

Freshly ground black pepper: Adds a hint of spice and depth to the pork.

Olive oil: Used to sauté the garlic and add richness to the glaze.

Garlic: Imparts aromatic and robust flavor to the glaze.

Brown sugar: Balances the spices and adds sweetness to the glaze.

Ground cumin: Provides earthy, warm flavors to the glaze.

Smoked paprika: Adds a smoky depth and color to the glaze.

Chili powder: Brings a mild heat and complexity to the glaze.

Apple spiced rum: Infuses the glaze with a sweet and spiced note, enhancing the pork's flavor.

Yellow mustard: Forms the base of the spicy mustard sauce, adding tanginess.

Mayonnaise: Creamy component of the spicy mustard sauce.

Extra virgin olive oil: Blends with the mustard sauce, adding richness.

White wine vinegar: Adds acidity and brightness to the mustard sauce.

Cayenne pepper: Provides a spicy kick to the mustard sauce.

Shredded Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully, adding a creamy texture to the tacos.

Flour tortillas: Soft wraps that hold all the delicious ingredients together.

Smoked deli ham: Adds a smoky, savory layer to the tacos.

Pickles: Provide a tangy crunch that complements the rich flavors.

Fresh cilantro: Adds a burst of fresh, herbaceous flavor to finish the tacos.

One reader, Jesse Seeley says:

These cubano tacos are a delightful twist on a classic! The combination of roasted pork, ham, and spicy mustard sauce is simply mouthwatering. The flavors meld perfectly, and the pickles add a refreshing crunch. A must-try for taco lovers!

Jesse Seeley

Techniques Required for Cubano Tacos Recipe

How to score pork: Use a sharp knife to make shallow cuts in a criss-cross pattern on the surface of the pork loin. This helps the seasoning and glaze penetrate the meat better.

How to sauté garlic: Heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until it becomes fragrant but not browned.

How to make a glaze: Whisk together brown sugar, salt, pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder. Add apple spiced rum and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and simmer for 6 to 8 minutes until the mixture thickens to the consistency of pancake syrup.

How to baste: Use a basting brush to coat the pork with the glaze. This helps to keep the meat moist and flavorful during roasting.

How to roast pork: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Place the pork in a baking dish and roast for 65 to 75 minutes, basting halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F.

How to make a spicy mustard sauce: In a medium bowl, whisk together mustard, mayonnaise, olive oil, white wine vinegar, and cayenne pepper until smooth.

How to slice pork: After roasting, let the pork rest for 5 minutes. Then, use a sharp knife to cut the pork into thin slices.

How to assemble tacos: Warm the tortillas, sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese, layer with deli ham, roasted pork, pickle slices, and drizzle with spicy mustard sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

How To Make Cubano Tacos

Taco Tuesdays will now be extra special and extra delicious with this taco recipe inspired by Cuban cuisine. Prepare your palate for the warm sensation brought by different spices.

Preparation:

Cooking:

Total: 1 hour 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1wholepork loin
3½tspkosher salt divided
2tspfreshly ground black pepperdivided
2tbspolive oil
2clovesgarlicminced
¼cupbrown sugar
½tspground cumin
½tspsmoked paprika
½tspchili powder
½cupApple Spiced Rum
½cupyellow mustard
6tbspmayonnaise
2tbspextra virgin olive oil
1tbspwhite wine vinegar
1tspCayenne pepper
4cupsShredded Swiss Cheese
16pcsflour tortillaswarmed
10ozsmoked deli hamchopped
1cuppickles
⅓cupfresh cilantrochopped

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
Using a sharp knife, score the top of the pork in a criss-cross pattern. Rub with salt and pepper, then set in a large baking dish.
Heat the olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 to 2 minutes until fragrant.
To make the glaze, start by whisking together the brown sugar, salt, pepper, cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder.
Add the sliced apple spiced rum and whisk until combined. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 6 to 8 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened slightly and has the consistency of pancake syrup. Set aside.
Use a basting brush and some of the remaining glaze to coat the pork in a thick layer of glaze.
Place the pork in the oven and roast, basting again with more glaze halfway through, for 65 to 75 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 160 degrees F.
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mustard, mayonnaise, olive oil, white wine vinegar, and cayenne until smooth. This will serve as the spicy mustard sauce.
Remove the pork from the oven, then pour the reserved glaze over and spread evenly. Let the pork rest for 5 minutes.
Cut the pork into thin slices. Keep warm until ready to serve.
To assemble the tacos, sprinkle shredded Swiss cheese onto a warm tortilla. Layer with deli ham, roasted pork, pickle slices, and a drizzle of spicy mustard sauce. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Nutrition

Calories: 1042.15kcal
Fat: 57.43g
Saturated Fat: 19.62g
Trans Fat: 0.02g
Monounsaturated Fat: 23.21g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 12.00g
Carbohydrates: 78.52g
Fiber: 5.07g
Sugar: 10.57g
Protein: 42.62g
Cholesterol: 111.09mg
Sodium: 1891.94mg
Calcium: 824.74mg
Potassium: 511.10mg
Iron: 5.89mg
Vitamin A: 177.44µg
Vitamin C: 2.87mg

Crucial Technique Tip for Cubano Tacos Recipe

To ensure your pork loin stays juicy and flavorful, let it rest for at least 10 minutes after roasting before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more tender and succulent bite.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Cubano Tacos

Prepare the pork ahead: Marinate and roast the pork loin a day before to save time on the day of serving.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded swiss cheese to cut down on prep time.

Ready-made mustard sauce: Use a store-bought spicy mustard sauce instead of making it from scratch.

Pre-sliced ham: Purchase smoked deli ham that is already sliced to save time.

Assemble in batches: Lay out all tortillas and assemble the tacos in an assembly line to speed up the process.

Substitute Ingredients For Cubano Tacos Recipe

pork loin - Substitute with chicken breast: Chicken breast is a lean protein that can absorb the same flavors and spices, making it a suitable alternative.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and salinity, providing the same seasoning effect.
freshly ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper offers a similar heat and flavor profile, though it is slightly milder.
olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil has a neutral flavor and similar cooking properties, making it a good alternative.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can provide a similar flavor, though it is less pungent than fresh garlic.
brown sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey adds sweetness and a slight floral note, which can complement the other flavors in the recipe.
ground cumin - Substitute with ground coriander: Ground coriander has a similar earthy flavor, though it is slightly more citrusy.
smoked paprika - Substitute with regular paprika: Regular paprika provides a similar color and flavor, though it lacks the smokiness.
chili powder - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper adds heat and a similar flavor profile, though it is spicier.
apple spiced rum - Substitute with apple juice: Apple juice provides a similar fruity flavor without the alcohol content.
yellow mustard - Substitute with Dijon mustard: Dijon mustard has a similar tangy flavor but is slightly more complex.
mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt provides a creamy texture and tangy flavor, making it a healthier alternative.
extra virgin olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar healthy fat profile and a neutral flavor.
white wine vinegar - Substitute with apple cider vinegar: Apple cider vinegar has a similar acidity and a slightly fruity flavor.
cayenne pepper - Substitute with red pepper flakes: Red pepper flakes provide a similar heat and can be adjusted to taste.
shredded swiss cheese - Substitute with provolone cheese: Provolone cheese has a similar mild flavor and melts well.
flour tortillas - Substitute with corn tortillas: Corn tortillas offer a different texture and flavor but are a traditional alternative.
smoked deli ham - Substitute with turkey ham: Turkey ham provides a similar smoky flavor and is a leaner option.
pickles - Substitute with pickled jalapeños: Pickled jalapeños add a tangy and spicy kick, offering a different but complementary flavor.
fresh cilantro - Substitute with fresh parsley: Fresh parsley provides a similar fresh, green flavor without the soapy taste some people associate with cilantro.

Plating Ideas for Cubano Tacos

Serve smaller portion sizes: Slice the pork loin thinly and arrange just a few pieces per tortilla. This allows the flavors to be more concentrated and appreciated.
Use decoration: Garnish each taco with a small sprig of fresh cilantro on top. This adds a touch of elegance and a burst of color.
Layer flavors thoughtfully: Start with a base of shredded swiss cheese on the flour tortilla, followed by a slice of smoked deli ham, then the roasted pork, and finally a few slices of pickles. Drizzle the spicy mustard sauce over the top.
Create visual appeal: Use a rectangular plate and arrange three tacos in a row. Ensure each taco is neatly filled and not overstuffed, maintaining a clean and sophisticated look.
Add texture contrast: Lightly toast the flour tortillas before assembling the tacos to add a slight crunch, contrasting with the tender pork and ham.
Highlight the glaze: Drizzle a small amount of the reserved glaze around the plate for added flavor and visual appeal. This also ties the dish together by showcasing the key ingredient.
Balance the plate: Add a small side of lightly dressed mixed greens with a hint of white wine vinegar and olive oil to balance the richness of the tacos and provide a refreshing contrast.

Essential Equipment for Making Cubano Tacos

Sharp knife: Essential for scoring the pork loin in a criss-cross pattern and slicing it thinly after roasting.
Large baking dish: Used to hold the pork loin while it roasts in the oven.
Small saucepan: Necessary for heating olive oil and sautéing garlic, as well as making the glaze.
Whisk: Useful for combining ingredients for the glaze and the spicy mustard sauce.
Basting brush: Ideal for coating the pork with the glaze before and during roasting.
Oven: Required to roast the pork loin to the perfect internal temperature.
Meat thermometer: Important for checking that the pork has reached an internal temperature of 160 degrees F.
Medium bowl: Used for mixing the ingredients for the spicy mustard sauce.
Mixing spoon: Handy for stirring the sauce ingredients together.
Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for scoring and slicing the pork.
Serving platter: Useful for arranging the sliced pork and other taco components before assembly.
Tongs: Helpful for handling the hot pork and assembling the tacos.
Grater: Needed if you are shredding the Swiss cheese yourself.
Measuring cups: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients like apple spiced rum, mustard, and mayonnaise.
Measuring spoons: Important for measuring smaller quantities of spices and other ingredients.
Tortilla warmer: Useful for keeping the tortillas warm and pliable for easy assembly.

Storing and Freezing Instructions for Cubano Tacos

To store leftover cubano tacos, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep for up to 3-4 days.
If you have leftover roasted pork, store it separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can use it to make more tacos or in other dishes like sandwiches, salads, or quesadillas.
The spicy mustard sauce can be stored in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. It's great as a dipping sauce or spread for sandwiches and wraps.
To freeze the roasted pork, let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and place it in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
While you can freeze assembled cubano tacos, the texture of the tortillas and toppings may change after thawing. It's best to freeze the components separately and assemble the tacos when you're ready to eat them.
To reheat frozen roasted pork, place it in a baking dish, cover it with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but be careful not to overcook it, or it may become dry.

How To Reheat Leftover Cubano Tacos

To reheat leftover cubano tacos, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the tacos loosely in aluminum foil and place them on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the pork is heated through. This method helps to keep the tacos moist and prevents them from drying out.
Another option is to use a skillet on the stovetop. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil or butter. Place the tacos in the skillet and cover with a lid. Cook for about 3-5 minutes on each side, or until the tacos are heated through and the tortillas are crispy.
If you have an air fryer, you can also use it to reheat your leftover cubano tacos. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the tacos in the basket. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until the tacos are heated through and the tortillas are crispy.
For a quick and easy method, you can use the microwave. Place the tacos on a microwave-safe plate and cover them with a damp paper towel. Microwave on high for about 30-60 seconds, or until the tacos are heated through. Be careful not to overheat them, as this can cause the tortillas to become soggy.
If you want to add some extra flavor to your leftover cubano tacos, try brushing them with a little bit of melted butter or olive oil before reheating. You can also sprinkle some extra shredded cheese on top for added gooeyness.

Interesting Trivia About Cubano Tacos

A unique aspect of this Cubano tacos recipe is its fusion of traditional Cuban sandwich elements with Mexican tacos. The combination of roasted pork, deli ham, Swiss cheese, and pickles creates a flavorful and innovative twist on classic dishes from both cuisines.

Is the Cubano Tacos Recipe Budget-Friendly for Home Cooking?

Creating Cubano tacos can be quite cost-effective for a household. The main expense lies in the pork loin and smoked deli ham, but other ingredients like flour tortillas, pickles, and spices are relatively inexpensive. The use of apple spiced rum might add a bit to the cost, but it can be substituted with a more affordable option. Overall, the recipe scores a solid 8 out of 10 for cost-effectiveness. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $25-$30 USD.

Are Cubano Tacos Healthy or Unhealthy?

The cubano tacos recipe, while undeniably delicious, leans more towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:

High sodium content: The recipe calls for a significant amount of salt, both in the pork rub and the glaze. Additionally, the deli ham and pickles contribute to the overall sodium levels.
Saturated fat: The pork loin, mayonnaise, and swiss cheese are all sources of saturated fat, which can raise LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and increase the risk of heart disease when consumed in excess.
Added sugars: The brown sugar in the glaze and the apple spiced rum contribute to the added sugar content of the dish.
Refined carbohydrates: The flour tortillas are made from refined grains, which have been stripped of their fiber and nutrients.

However, the recipe does include some healthier elements, such as the use of olive oil, garlic, and fresh cilantro, which provide beneficial nutrients and antioxidants.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Reduce the amount of salt used in the pork rub and glaze, and opt for low-sodium deli ham and pickles
Replace some of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt to lower the saturated fat content
Use a sugar substitute or reduce the amount of brown sugar in the glaze
Swap the flour tortillas for whole-grain or corn tortillas to increase the fiber content
Add more vegetables to the tacos, such as shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or sliced bell peppers, to boost the nutrient density of the dish
Use a leaner cut of pork, such as pork tenderloin, to reduce the overall fat content

Editor's Opinion on the Cubano Tacos Recipe

This Cubano tacos recipe is a delightful fusion of Cuban and Mexican cuisines. The combination of roasted pork loin, smoked deli ham, and tangy pickles creates a rich, savory profile, while the spicy mustard sauce adds a zesty kick. The use of Swiss cheese and flour tortillas brings it all together in a satisfying, melty bite. The apple spiced rum glaze on the pork adds a unique sweetness that complements the other flavors beautifully. Overall, it's a well-balanced and inventive dish that is sure to impress.

Enhance Your Cubano Tacos Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Grilled Pineapple Salsa: Imagine the sweet and tangy flavors of grilled pineapple mingling with the zesty kick of jalapeños, all brought together with a hint of lime juice. This vibrant salsa will add a tropical twist to your Cubano Tacos, making each bite a fiesta of flavors.

Crispy Plantain Chips: For a delightful crunch, serve up some crispy plantain chips. These golden slices of plantain are fried to perfection and lightly salted, offering a satisfying contrast to the rich and savory pork loin in your tacos.

Mango Avocado Salad: A refreshing mango avocado salad can be the perfect complement to your meal. The creamy avocado and juicy mango are tossed with red onion, cilantro, and a splash of citrus dressing, creating a harmonious blend of flavors that will brighten up your plate.

Black Bean Soup: Warm up your taste buds with a hearty bowl of black bean soup. This comforting soup, rich with black beans, smoked paprika, and a hint of cumin, will provide a cozy and flavorful start to your Cubano Tacos feast.

Coconut Flan: End your meal on a sweet note with a luscious coconut flan. This creamy dessert, infused with the tropical essence of coconut milk and topped with a golden caramel sauce, will be the perfect finale to your culinary adventure.

Similar Recipes to Cubano Tacos

Cuban Sandwich: Dive into the classic Cuban Sandwich with layers of roast pork, smoked ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and yellow mustard pressed between Cuban bread. Grill until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.

Pork Carnitas Tacos: Experience the rich flavors of Pork Carnitas Tacos with slow-cooked pork shoulder seasoned with cumin, oregano, and citrus juices. Serve on corn tortillas with onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

Pulled Pork Sliders: Savor the taste of Pulled Pork Sliders featuring tender pulled pork smothered in barbecue sauce and topped with coleslaw. Serve on mini brioche buns for a delightful bite-sized treat.

Pork and Pineapple Skewers: Enjoy the sweet and savory combination of Pork and Pineapple Skewers with marinated pork loin and juicy pineapple chunks grilled to perfection. Serve with a side of coconut rice for a tropical twist.

Ham and Cheese Empanadas: Delight in Ham and Cheese Empanadas filled with smoked ham and melted cheese encased in a flaky pastry dough. Bake until golden brown and serve with a side of chimichurri sauce.

Appetizer and Dessert Pairings for Cubano Tacos Recipe

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mini Bell Peppers: Imagine vibrant mini bell peppers bursting with a creamy, tangy filling. These delightful bites are filled with a mixture of goat cheese, cream cheese, and a hint of lemon zest. The addition of fresh herbs like chives and parsley adds a refreshing note. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes gives a subtle kick, making each bite a perfect balance of flavors. Serve these colorful gems on a platter, and watch them disappear in no time.

Bacon-Wrapped Dates: Indulge in the sweet and savory combination of bacon-wrapped dates. These delectable morsels feature Medjool dates stuffed with blue cheese or almonds, then wrapped in crispy bacon. The natural sweetness of the dates pairs beautifully with the salty, smoky bacon, creating an irresistible flavor profile. For an extra layer of complexity, drizzle with a touch of balsamic glaze before serving. These bites are perfect for any gathering, offering a sophisticated yet comforting taste experience.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a warm, chocolate lava cake with a molten center that oozes rich, velvety chocolate when you cut into it. Pair this indulgent treat with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and a sprinkle of sea salt for a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. The combination of warm, gooey chocolate and cold, creamy ice cream creates a symphony of sensations that will leave your guests craving more. Garnish with a few fresh raspberries and a dusting of powdered sugar for an elegant presentation.

Key Lime Pie: Transport your taste buds to a tropical paradise with a tangy and refreshing key lime pie. The zesty lime filling, made with freshly squeezed key lime juice, sits atop a buttery graham cracker crust. Top it off with a dollop of whipped cream and a thin slice of lime for a burst of color. The balance of tart and sweet flavors, combined with the creamy texture, makes this dessert a perfect ending to any meal. Serve chilled for a cool, invigorating treat that will leave your guests feeling refreshed.

Why trust this Cubano Tacos Recipe:

This Cubano tacos recipe blends the rich flavors of roasted pork, smoked deli ham, and spicy mustard sauce to create a mouthwatering experience. The combination of apple spiced rum glaze and shredded Swiss cheese ensures a unique taste that stands out. With detailed instructions and carefully selected ingredients, this recipe is designed for success. Trust in the balance of savory pork, tangy pickles, and fresh cilantro to deliver an unforgettable meal.

Share your thoughts on the Cubano Tacos Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make this fusion dish even better!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of pork for this recipe?

Absolutely! While pork loin is recommended for its tenderness, you can use pork shoulder or even pork tenderloin. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure it's cooked through.

What can I substitute for apple spiced rum?

If you don't have apple spiced rum, you can use regular spiced rum and add a splash of apple juice or cider. Alternatively, you can use apple cider vinegar for a non-alcoholic option.

How do I keep the tortillas warm and soft?

I like to wrap the tortillas in aluminum foil and place them in a warm oven (around 200 degrees F) while the pork is roasting. This keeps them warm and pliable until you're ready to assemble the tacos.

Can I make the pork ahead of time?

Yes, you can roast the pork a day in advance. Just slice it and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, reheat the slices in a covered dish in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

What other toppings can I add to these tacos?

Feel free to get creative! Some great additions include sliced avocado, pickled red onions, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice. You can also add a bit of hot sauce if you like extra heat.