Summary of Traditional Cuban Cuisine
Traditional Cuban Food
Cuban food is incredibly diverse, allowing you to experience something different each day. This unique culinary scene melds Spanish, Caribbean, and African influences, creating a symphony of flavors enriched with spices that tantalize your taste buds. From savory shredded beef and sweet plantains to succulent slow-cooked pork drenched in sour orange juice, the culinary adventure awaits.
To truly appreciate the delicacies of Cuba, venture beyond the resort experience and immerse yourself in the vibrant street food culture found in Havana. Below are 20 traditional Cuban dishes that should make their way onto your must-try list.
1. Ropa Vieja (Old Clothes)
Ropa Vieja, meaning “Old Clothes,” stands out as a quintessential dish in Cuban cuisine. This delightful meal features tender shredded beef simmered in a thick tomato sauce infused with bell peppers, bay leaf, and spices. A versatile dish, Ropa Vieja can also be prepared with pork or chicken for those wanting to mix things up. Get the recipe here.
2. Arroz y Frijoles Negros (Rice and Black Beans)
A fundamental component of authentic Cuban meals is rice and beans. Frequently paired with dishes like Lechon Asado or Ropa Vieja, creating the perfect rice and beans requires patience and attention. Find the recipe here.
3. Flan
Cuban cuisine does not exclusively revolve around meats; it also boasts exquisite desserts like Flan. This custard-like cake is often topped with caramel, although variations may include coconut or guayaba (guava). Make your own Flan with the recipe here.
4. Lechon Asado (Roast Suckling Pig)
Lechon Asado is the crowning glory of Cuban festive meals, embodying the spirit of celebrations. This dish also enjoys everyday popularity in the countryside, complemented by the signature mojo criollo sauce containing vinegar, garlic, and spices. Get the recipe here.
5. Picadillo a la Habanera (Ground Beef)
This flavorful dish of ground beef holds a special place in Cuban homes, often served with rice and beans. Seasoned and slow-cooked with ingredients like potatoes and olives, it embodies the richness of Cuban flavors. Check out the recipe here.
6. Sandwich Cubano (Cuban Sandwich)
A staple in Cuban culinary culture, the Sandwich Cubano is loved worldwide. Made with ham, roast pork, mustard, pickles, and Swiss cheese on hard bread, many enjoy it alongside crispy Yuca fries. Learn to make authentic Cuban bread here.
7. Masas de Cerdo Frita (Chunks of Fried Pork)
Masas de Cerdo Frita is a must-try for those seeking an authentic Cuban experience. This dish features tender pork marinated in citrus and fried to achieve a crunchy exterior. Explore this easy recipe here.
8. Arroz Con Pollo (Chicken with Rice)
Arroz Con Pollo is a comforting one-pot dish that combines chicken and yellow rice. A popular choice throughout Latin America, this Cuban variation fans flavors without the fish characteristic of paella. For a quick recipe, check out here.
9. Arroz con Huevo Frito (Rice and Fried Egg)
This simple yet satisfying dish consists of rice topped with a perfectly fried egg. To enjoy it like a local, make sure the yolk remains runny to blend with the rice.
10. Vaca Frita (Fried Beef)
This dish boasts an exquisite lemon flavor and is characterized by fresher herbs and poached tender beef. The combination of lemon juice, onions, and garlic makes Vaca Frita an unforgettable culinary delight. For the recipe, see here.
Guava Basted Ribs
These flavorful braised ribs are a must-try if you desire an extraordinarily hearty meal. Juicy and rich, they are best enjoyed bathed in a delicious guava BBQ sauce.
11. Pernil Relleno De Moros Y Cristianos (Pork Shoulder)
This dish features succulent pork shoulder marinated in garlic and orange juice, perfectly complementing the traditional Moors and Christians rice.
12. Arroz Moros y Cristianos
This traditional dish celebrates the blend of rice and beans, elevated with spices. Expect tantalizing flavors that satisfy your culinary cravings.
13. Tamales
Cuban tamales are a flavorful street food staple made from cornmeal and filled with a mixture of seasoned pork and spices. They are often enjoyed during family gatherings and special occasions.
14. Plátano Maduro Frito (Fried Sweet Plantains)
Fried plantains are a delicious accompaniment to many Cuban meals, embodying the country’s African influence. The preparation is straightforward; merely slice and fry the plantains for a scrumptious side.
15. Tostones o Chatinos
This variation of fried plantains involves slicing the plantains, frying them, smashing them, and frying them again until golden brown, resulting in a crispy treat.
16. Casquitos de Guayaba
Renowned as a classic Cuban dessert, guava is often utilized in sweet dishes. The fruit is cooked and served warm, enhanced with sweet syrup.
17. Medianoche
This beloved Cuban sandwich features eggy bread, tender roast pork, and Swiss cheese, topped with pickles and mustard—a delicious treat for any time of day.
18. Arroz con Leche (Rice Pudding)
Cuban rice pudding is a favorite dessert made from milk, sugar, and cinnamon. For an authentic taste, enjoy it at a local home or restaurant.
19. Tres Leches Cake
This iconic Latin American dessert gradually gains popularity in Cuban cuisine. The cake, soaked in a mixture of three types of milk, is moist and flavorful—definitely a must-try!
20. Bunuelos
These delightful Cuban treats made from yuca offer a light and flaky alternative to traditional donuts. Best enjoyed in Cuba, they are often accompanied by a special anise dipping sauce. For the recipe, refer to here.
21. Arroz Imperial (Imperial Rice)
This unique dish combines multiple flavors enriched by traditional tomato paste, paired with bell peppers, cheese, and shredded chicken—certainly one that pleases any palate.
22. Yuca con Mojo (Cassava with Garlic Sauce)
Yuca con Mojo is a favorite throughout Cuba, featuring boiled cassava smothered in a flavorsome garlic sauce. It’s a popular dish at celebrations and gatherings.
23. Cuban Coffee or Café Cubano
Café Cubano is central to Cuban culture, renowned for rich flavor owing to its strong espresso base and sweetness from sugar mixed during brewing.
What to Know About Traditional Cuban Food
Understanding traditional Cuban food involves appreciating its simplicity and flavor. A farm-to-table approach is essential, ensuring the vibrancy of home-cooked meals persists in Cuban culture.
Seek out privately-owned restaurants known as ‘paladares’ to experience authentic Cuban dishes that have withstood the test of time.
Restaurants
In Havana, numerous paladares await, offering fresh and exciting meal options. Noteworthy mentions include Los Mercaderes, serving traditional Cuban dishes, and La Guarida, famed for its film appearances.
Breakfast
As you explore Cuba, mornings are often filled with the aroma of tostadas, served with a cup of café con leche. A typical local breakfast involves tearing apart the bread and dipping it into the coffee for a richer experience.
Vegetarian Food in Cuba
While primarily a meat-centric culture, vegetarian options are gradually emerging. Although finding vegan meals may pose a challenge, dining at paladares often provides more diverse choices.
Final Thoughts
Cuban cuisine offers rich flavors and culinary experiences that tour your taste buds. From savory Ropa Vieja to sweet plantains, there’s much to explore. Once back home, use your culinary skills to recreate and adapt these flavorful dishes for family and friends.
