The Cubano (aka Cuban sandwich) is a traditional Cuban recipe that is now very popular in Miami and other parts of Florida, USA. Here are three variations of this flashy ham and cheese sandwich that you can try at home.

• Classic Cuban: A traditional Cubano has layers of ham, roasted pork, cheese and pickles, with the pickles placed on a buttered slice of bread at the base and mustard spread on the top side. The sandwich is then wrapped in foil, pressed and grilled until the bread is crispy and golden brown. Hungry yet?
• Frita: The Frita is another Cuban recipe that is more like a hamburger, served with a ground beef and pork patty, topped with shoestring fries. Typical burger fillings, like lettuce, onion or ketchup, make great additions. A key ingredient is Cuban bread which is, not surprisingly, used for the Cuban sandwich. Long, baguette-like Cuban loaves are made from white flour, yeast and lard, creating a very thin crust and a soft centre.
• Vegetarian Cuban: There are plenty of veggie options for making this melted sandwich, with creative substitutes for the layers of meat. Fry thinly sliced tofu or seitan in a marinade of oil, garlic, oregano, cumin and salt. Or try sautéeing Portobello mushrooms in butter and garlic for another meaty alternative.