Cuban cuisine is a vibrant mix of Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences, offering bold flavors and comforting dishes. Whether you’re planning a themed dinner or just exploring new cuisines, these 13 Cuban recipes are sure to delight.
From savory staples to sweet treats, this list will help you create a feast full of authentic Cuban flavors.
1. Ropa Vieja
Ropa Vieja is Cuba’s national dish, featuring shredded beef cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce with bell peppers, onions, and spices. The slow-cooked beef becomes incredibly tender, soaking up the flavors of garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika.
Serve it over white rice with a side of fried plantains for a complete meal. It’s a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for family dinners.
2. Cuban Sandwich (Sandwich Cubano)
This iconic sandwich combines roast pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard pressed between crispy Cuban bread. Toasted until the cheese is melty and the bread is golden, it’s a symphony of savory and tangy flavors.
It’s easy to make at home and a must-try for sandwich lovers. Pair it with a side of plantain chips for an authentic Cuban experience.
3. Arroz con Pollo
Arroz con Pollo is a one-pot meal of chicken and yellow rice infused with saffron or annatto for its vibrant color. The dish is flavored with garlic, onions, bell peppers, and a touch of tomato, creating a savory and aromatic base.
It’s hearty, comforting, and ideal for feeding a crowd. Garnish with peas and roasted red peppers for a pop of color.
4. Tostones (Fried Green Plantains)
Tostones are twice-fried green plantain slices that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They’re seasoned with salt and sometimes garlic for a simple yet satisfying snack or side dish.
Serve them with mojo sauce for dipping, and you’ll have a crowd-pleasing appetizer. These golden treats are addictive and easy to make.
5. Picadillo
This Cuban ground beef hash is a savory-sweet blend of minced meat, tomatoes, olives, raisins, and spices. The combination of salty and sweet flavors makes it uniquely delicious. Serve it over rice or as a filling for empanadas. It’s a versatile dish that’s quick to prepare but packed with flavor.
6. Cuban Black Beans
Cuban black beans are slow-cooked with garlic, onions, bell peppers, and spices, resulting in a creamy, flavorful side dish. Often served alongside white rice, they’re a staple in Cuban households. A splash of vinegar or lime juice adds a tangy finish that brightens the dish. They pair perfectly with almost any Cuban main course.
7. Lechon Asado (Roast Pork)
Lechon Asado is a marinated roast pork dish that’s bursting with citrusy, garlicky flavors thanks to the traditional mojo marinade. The pork is slow-roasted until tender and caramelized, making it a centerpiece-worthy dish.
Serve it with yuca and black beans for a classic Cuban meal. It’s a showstopper for special occasions or family gatherings.
8. Yuca con Mojo
Yuca con Mojo is a side dish made with boiled cassava topped with a tangy mojo sauce of garlic, olive oil, and citrus juice. The starchy yuca absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully, making each bite irresistible.
It’s a simple yet delicious accompaniment to roasted meats. Sprinkle with onions for added texture and flavor.
9. Cuban Empanadas
These golden pockets are filled with savory ingredients like picadillo, cheese, or chicken. The flaky pastry is fried or baked until crispy and golden brown. Serve them as appetizers or snacks with a side of dipping sauce. They’re versatile, easy to make, and always a hit at parties.
10. Moros y Cristianos (Cuban Rice and Beans)
This classic dish, translating to “Moors and Christians,” combines black beans and white rice cooked together with garlic, onions, and spices. The beans infuse the rice with their earthy flavor, creating a perfectly seasoned side.
It’s a staple in Cuban cuisine and pairs well with any protein. Simple yet flavorful, it’s a must-try dish.
11. Platanos Maduros (Sweet Fried Plantains)
Platanos Maduros are ripe plantains fried until caramelized and golden. Their natural sweetness intensifies during cooking, creating a delicious contrast to savory dishes.
They’re an essential side dish in Cuban meals, adding both flavor and texture. These sweet and sticky bites are a family favorite.
12. Croquetas de Jamón (Ham Croquettes)
These crispy, creamy croquettes are made with a béchamel-based ham filling coated in breadcrumbs and fried to perfection. They’re crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them an irresistible snack or appetizer.
Pair them with a dipping sauce like aioli or mustard for extra flavor. They’re perfect for parties or as a quick bite.
13. Vaca Frita
Vaca Frita, meaning “fried cow,” is a crispy shredded beef dish packed with garlic, lime, and onion flavors. The beef is first boiled until tender, then pan-fried to create crispy edges. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s often served with rice and black beans.
The lime adds a bright, tangy note that ties it all together.
Leave a comment