Crispy Cuban Minuta Sandwich

Ingredients

• 4 fish fillets (such as snapper or grouper), about 6 oz (170g) each 4 fish fillets (such as snapper or grouper), about 6 oz (170g) each
• 1 cup (120g) breadcrumbs 1 cup (120g) breadcrumbs
• 1/2 cup (60g) cornmeal 1/2 cup (60g) cornmeal
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying
• 4 Cuban bread rolls 4 Cuban bread rolls
• Tartar sauce, for serving Tartar sauce, for serving
• Lettuce, tomato, and pickles, for garnish Lettuce, tomato, and pickles, for garnish

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 380 kcal / 1590 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 2g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 42g, 3g
• Protein: 24g
• Fiber: 3g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a shallow dish, combine the breadcrumbs, cornmeal, garlic powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. 2.
   Pat the fish fillets dry with paper towels and season them with salt and pepper.
3. 3.
   Dip each fish fillet into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere the breadcrumbs to the fish.
4. 4.
   Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. 5.
   Fry the fish fillets for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. 6.
   Remove the fish fillets from the skillet and drain them on a paper towel-lined plate.
7. 7.
   Slice the Cuban bread rolls in half and lightly toast them.
8. 8.
   Spread tartar sauce on both sides of the bread rolls.
9. 9.
   Place a crispy fish fillet on the bottom half of each roll.
10. 10.
    Top with lettuce, tomato, and pickles, if desired.
11. 11.
    Cover with the top half of the roll and serve immediately.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Fish fillets — Ensure the fish fillets are fresh and of high quality. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use a white fish such as snapper or grouper. If you prefer a stronger flavor, opt for a fish like mackerel or herring.

Tips & Tricks

• For an extra crispy coating, you can double-dip the fish fillets in the breadcrumb mixture.
• If you don't have Cuban bread rolls, you can use French bread or another crusty bread as a substitute.
• Experiment with different toppings such as sliced avocado or jalapenos to add a unique twist to your sandwich.
• If you prefer a spicier flavor, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the breadcrumb mixture.
• Serve the sandwich with a side of plantain chips or yuca fries for a complete Cuban meal experience.

Serving advice

Serve the Crispy Cuban Minuta Sandwich immediately after assembling to ensure the bread stays crispy and the fish remains hot. Accompany it with a side of coleslaw or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Presentation advice

To present the Crispy Cuban Minuta Sandwich, place it on a wooden cutting board or a vibrant plate. Cut it diagonally to showcase the crispy fish fillet and colorful toppings. Garnish the plate with a sprig of fresh parsley or cilantro for an added touch of freshness.