Oxtail Cuban / Las’ Lap, Miami Beach

There’s no shortage of places to get a Cuban sandwich in the 305, but one spot is mixing up the classic Miami staple. A Caribbean twist as we grab a Bite with Belkys.

The Chef: Justin Tootla
The Restaurant: Las’ Lap, Miami Beach
The Dish: Oxtail Cuban

Ingredients:
For the Sandwich:
1 6-inch piece Cuban bread (or soft French bread)
2-3 tbsp Dijonnaise (equal parts Dijon + mayo)
8-10 pickle slices
3-4 oz braised oxtail, warmed and shredded (Home shortcut: use leftover braised oxtail, short rib, or pulled beef)
2 slices Swiss cheese
4-6 slices beef bacon, cooked until crisp
1-2 tbsp butter, softened or melted

For the Mojo (Quick Home Version):
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1 small garlic clove, grated
Pinch salt
Optional: pinch oregano or cumin

For the Ginger-Scallion Chimi (Simplified):
1 tbsp finely sliced scallions
½ tsp grated ginger
1 tbsp olive oil
Pinch salt

Optional Fancy Finish:
Fresh black truffle, microplaned (totally optional but baller)

Method of Preparation:

• Make the Mojo:
  Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and salt. Adjust acidity to taste.
• Make the Ginger-Scallion Chimi:
  Stir scallions, ginger, olive oil, and salt together. Set aside.
• Build the Sandwich:
  Slice the Cuban bread lengthwise. Spread Dijonnaise generously on both cut sides. On the bottom half, layer:

Close the sandwich.

Press the Sandwich (Home Method)
You have options.
If you have a panini press:

• Brush the outside of the bread with butter.
• Press for 2-3 minutes until golden and melty.

If you don’t:

• Heat a skillet over medium.
• Add a little butter.
• Place the sandwich in the pan and press with another heavy pan or foil‑wrapped brick.
• Cook 2-3 minutes per side until crisp and the cheese melts.

Trim & Portion (Optional but Chef-y)
Trim the edges for clean lines. Cut into four “soldiers” (1-inch strips).

Plate & Finish

• Spoon mojo onto the plate and top with a little ginger-scallion chimi.
• Arrange the sandwich soldiers cut-side up.
• Microplane black truffle over the top if you’re feeling luxurious.

Las’ Lap
(located in The Vintro Hotel)
2216 Park Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139
(786) 622-2833
https://www.laslapmia.com/