Copycat Firehouse Subs BBQ Cuban Recipe – A Smoky, Savory Delight!
The Firehouse Subs BBQ Cuban is a bold and smoky take on the classic Cuban sandwich. It features tender pulled meat, ham, melted Swiss cheese, and tangy BBQ sauce, all layered on a toasted sub roll with pickles and mustard for a perfect balance of flavors. Follow this step-by-step recipe to recreate this mouthwatering sandwich from Firehouse Subs menu at home.
Ingredients
For the Sandwich:
– 1 sub roll (preferably Cuban or hoagie-style)
– 4 ounces pulled meat (smoked or slow-cooked)
– 3 ounces sliced ham (preferably honey-glazed)
– 2 slices Swiss cheese
– 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
– 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
– 4 pickle slices
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for toasting)
For the Sauce:
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
How to Make the Firehouse Subs BBQ Cuban Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pulled Meat
If using pre-cooked pulled meat, heat it in a pan over medium heat with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. If making fresh, slow-cook meat shoulder with seasonings until tender, then shred it with two forks.
Step 2: Toast the Bread
Heat a pan or griddle over medium heat. Spread butter on the inside of the sub roll and toast until golden brown. This adds crunch and enhances the flavor.
Step 3: Layer the Ingredients
Spread yellow mustard on one side of the toasted roll and barbecue sauce on the other. Place a layer of ham, followed by warm pulled meat. Add Swiss cheese slices on top.
Step 4: Press and Melt the Cheese
Using a sandwich press or a heavy skillet, press the sandwich down gently. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until the cheese is fully melted and the bread is crispy.
Step 5: Add the Pickles and Serve
Once the sandwich is hot and crispy, open it slightly and place the pickle slices inside. Close it back up, slice in half, and enjoy!
Homemade BBQ Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
In a small saucepan over medium heat, combine ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
Step 2: Simmer the Sauce
Stir well and let the mixture simmer for 5-7 minutes, until slightly thickened. Remove from heat and let cool before using on the sandwich.
Tips and Tricks for the Firehouse Subs BBQ Cuban Recipe
1. Use smoked pulled meet for a more authentic BBQ flavor.
2. Toast the bread lightly before assembling to prevent sogginess.
3. Pressing the sandwich with a heavy pan gives it the perfect crisp texture.
4. Homemade BBQ sauce enhances the smoky flavor, but store-bought works well too.
5. For extra crunch, add crispy fried onions before closing the sandwich.
Nutritions
| Nutrition | Small | Medium | Large |
|---|---|---|---|
| Calories | 450 | 890 | 1490 |
| Fat | 25g | 51g | 85g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g | 15g | 28g |
| Cholesterol | 55mg | 110mg | 200mg |
| Sodium | 1.30mg | 1990mg | 3490mg |
| Carbohydrates | 33g | 66g | 112g |
| Fiber | 2g | 5g | 7g |
| Sugar | 8g | 17g | 32g |
| Protein | 19g | 38g | 69g |
FAQs Related To Firehouse Subs BBQ Cuban Recipe
1. Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes! While Swiss cheese is traditional, you can use Provolone, Pepper Jack, or even Smoked Gouda for a unique twist.
2. What’s the best way to keep pulled pork moist?
Store pulled pork in its juices or broth and reheat with a splash of water to keep it tender.
3. Can I make this sandwich without a sandwich press?
Yes! Use a heavy skillet or another pan to press the sandwich while cooking on a griddle.
4. Is there a substitute for yellow mustard?
Dijon or spicy brown mustard adds a bolder flavor if you prefer a stronger kick.
5. How do I make this sandwich spicier?
Add sliced jalapeños, spicy BBQ sauce, or a dash of hot sauce for heat.
6. What kind of BBQ sauce is best for this sandwich?
A smoky, slightly sweet BBQ sauce works best. If you like tangy flavors, go for vinegar-based sauce.
7. Can I prepare the ingredients in advance?
Yes! Keep the pulled pork, ham, and sauce stored separately, then assemble and grill when ready to serve.
8. What sides pair well with this sandwich?
French fries, coleslaw, baked beans, or a simple side salad complement the BBQ Cuban sub perfectly.
9. Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes! Cuban bread is ideal, but hoagie rolls, ciabatta, or even baguettes work well.
10. How can I add a smoky flavor without a smoker?
Use smoked paprika in the BBQ sauce or add liquid smoke to the pulled pork for a deep, smoky taste.
