Introduction: the mule el cortez sandwich copycat recipe
If you’ve ever visited The Mule in Oklahoma City, you know that their sandwiches are not just meals—they’re experiences. The El Cortez sandwich, in particular, has gained legendary status for its bold flavors, creative twist on the traditional Cuban sandwich, and perfect balance of textures. Whether you’re a local who frequents the restaurant or a traveler passing through, it’s hard to forget that first bite: the juicy, tender pork; the sharp, melted Swiss cheese; the tangy bite of mustard and pickles; all enveloped in buttery, toasted bread.
For many, it’s the kind of sandwich that you crave long after you leave the restaurant. However, what if you could do it in your own home? Luckily, making a copycat version of the mule el cortez sandwich recipe is not only possible but also incredibly rewarding. With the right ingredients, a little bit of patience, and some culinary creativity, you can enjoy this famous sandwich from your kitchen.
In this guide, we’ll break down each step to help you recreate the El Cortez as closely as possible. You’ll learn everything from selecting the perfect cut of pork to grilling the sandwich to crispy perfection. We’ll even cover a few creative variations if you’re feeling adventurous. Whether you’ve had the real thing or are just intrigued by the combination of flavors, this recipe will satisfy your sandwich cravings. Let’s dive into the details and discover how to make the Mule El Cortez Sandwich Copycat Recipe.
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The Mule El Cortez Sandwich Copycat Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches 1x
Description
the mule el cortez sandwich copycat recipe is a delicious combination of juicy grilled steak, melted cheese, sautéed onions, and bell peppers, all served in a toasted hoagie roll. Perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner, this sandwich brings together rich flavors and satisfying textures.
Ingredients
For the Pork:
- 1 lb pork shoulder (or pork butt)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ cup chicken broth
For the Sandwich:
- 8 slices Cuban bread (or substitute with French bread or ciabatta)
- 8 slices Swiss cheese
- ½ cup dill pickles (thinly sliced)
- 4 tbsp spicy mustard (Dijon for extra flavor)
- 4 tbsp butter (for grilling)
Instructions
Step 1: Braise the Pork
Season the Pork: To make a delicious foundation, rub the pork shoulder with a mixture of olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and cumin.
To sear the pork, preheat a medium-high heat cast iron skillet. Sear the pork on all sides until it forms a golden-brown crust, about 3-4 minutes per side.
Braise in Broth: Add chicken broth to the skillet, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let the pork braise for about 45 minutes, until it’s tender enough to easily shred.
Shred the Pork: Once the pork is cooked, use two forks to pull it apart into bite-sized shreds. Set aside.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich
Butter the Bread: Spread butter on one side of each slice of Cuban bread. The buttered side will be grilled for a crispy texture.
Layer the Ingredients: On the non-buttered side, spread spicy mustard. Add a slice of Swiss cheese, and a generous amount of shredded pork, and top with thinly sliced dill pickles. Place another slice of Swiss cheese on top to create that signature melt.
Top the Sandwich: Place the second slice of bread on top, butter side out.
Step 3: Grill the Sandwich
Preheat Your Skillet: Heat a skillet or sandwich press over medium heat.
Grill to Perfection: Grill the sandwich, pressing it lightly with a spatula or sandwich press. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, until the bread is golden and crispy, and the cheese is melted.
Serve: Slice the sandwich diagonally and serve immediately for maximum deliciousness.
Notes
For an extra burst of flavor, try adding a splash of hot sauce to the mayonnaise mixture or top the sandwich with pickled jalapeños. If you prefer a crunchier texture, lightly toast the hoagie rolls before adding the filling.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour (includes pork braising)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Marinate and Cook Steak
- Cuisine: American with Cuban influences
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 670 kcal
- Sodium: 1,500mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 37g
- Cholesterol: 105mg
Creative Variations (the mule el cortez sandwich copycat recipe)
Once you’ve mastered the original Mule El Cortez copycat, it’s fun to experiment with different flavors and textures. Here are some variations to try:
- Spicy El Cortez
Love a kick of heat? Add sliced jalapeños or spicy pickles to the sandwich. You can even switch the Swiss cheese for pepper jack for an extra punch of spice. - BBQ El Cortez
For a smoky twist, braise the pork in barbecue sauce instead of chicken broth. This will give the sandwich a sweet and tangy flavor profile, perfect for BBQ lovers. - Vegetarian El Cortez
Substitute the pork with grilled portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian version. The meaty texture of the mushrooms makes them an excellent alternative while still maintaining the sandwich’s hearty feel. - Avocado & Bacon Twist
For a richer, more indulgent version, add sliced avocado and crispy bacon to the sandwich. The creamy avocado balances the sharpness of the mustard, while the bacon adds a smoky crunch. - Gluten-Free El Cortez
Swap the Cuban bread with gluten-free bread. Many gluten-free varieties can still grill up crispy and golden, providing the perfect vessel for the sandwich ingredients.
Tips for Perfecting the Mule el Cortez Sandwich Copycat Recipe
Bread Matters: Cuban bread is the best choice for its crisp crust and soft interior, but French or ciabatta bread can also work in a pinch. Make sure the bread is fresh for the best texture.
Press the Sandwich: Using a sandwich press helps the ingredients meld together while ensuring the bread is perfectly crispy. If you don’t have one, use a heavy skillet or pot to press the sandwich as it grills.
Use High-Quality Pork: Pork shoulder or pork butt works best for braising, as it becomes tender and juicy when cooked slowly. Don’t rush the braising process—it’s worth the wait!
Don’t Skimp on the Mustard: The spicy mustard is key to the sandwich’s signature flavor. Use a good quality mustard, and don’t be afraid to be generous.
Serve Immediately: The El Cortez is best served hot off the grill, when the bread is crispy, and the cheese is still melted.
Frequently Asked Questions (the mule el cortez sandwich copycat recipe)
Q: What type of bread should I use for the El Cortez sandwich?
A: Cuban bread is ideal due to its light texture and crisp crust. If you can’t find Cuban bread, French bread or ciabatta are great alternatives.
Q: Can I prepare the pork in advance?
A: Yes, you can braise and shred the pork ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat the pork and continue with sandwich assembly when you’re ready to assemble the sandwiches.
Q: Could I use a different sort of cheese?
A: While Swiss cheese is traditional for El Cortez, you can experiment with other cheeses like cheddar or provolone if you prefer a different flavor profile.
Q: How do I keep the sandwich from becoming soggy?
A: To prevent sogginess, make sure the pork is well-drained before adding it to the sandwich. Also, avoid overloading the sandwich with mustard or pickles.
Q: What sides pair well with the El Cortez sandwich?
A: Classic sides like fries, potato salad, or coleslaw complement the sandwich well. For a lighter option, consider serving it with a fresh green salad.
Conclusion about the mule el cortez sandwich copycat recipe
Recreating the mule el cortez sandwich copycat recipe at home is a culinary journey that brings together rich, bold flavors in a satisfying way. With its tender braised pork, tangy pickles, sharp mustard, and melted Swiss cheese between crispy bread, this sandwich is an unforgettable treat. Whether you stick to the original recipe or experiment with creative variations, the El Cortez is a sandwich worth mastering.
The beauty of making the mule el cortez sandwich copycat recipe at home is that you can adapt it to your taste. Add a little spice, mix in some BBQ flavors, or even go vegetarian—the possibilities are endless. No matter which route you take, one thing’s for sure: you’ll be biting into a sandwich that’s bursting with flavor and satisfaction.
Now that you know the secrets of the mule el cortez sandwich copycat recipe to recreate this legendary sandwich, it’s time to gather your ingredients, fire up the skillet, and enjoy a taste of The Mule’s El Cortez from the comfort of your kitchen. Enjoy! #the mule el cortez sandwich copycat recipe
Made with Love Chef Olivia
‘ Cooking Up a Storm at Recipe Castle’
