Influences on Cuban food

Before the Spanish came to Cuba, the Cuban Indians fished and hunted for their food. They ate from the variety of fish and shellfish in the lagoons and rivers.

He had no need to store food because of the abundance that was at his disposal, and also because the heat and climate did not allow food to be stored well. Any stored grain was quickly spoiled.

The arrival of the Spanish brought poultry, cattle, pigs, and horses to the island, all of which thrived here. Pork became popular. It should be noted that the Spanish also brought with them the love of fried foods.

On the other hand, it should be noted that Africans contributed dishes such as mashed plantains and tostones (fried green plantains). Africa, as well as Spanish, has contributed to the islands' preference for white rice eaten with all other foods, fried foods and sauces.

Haitians brought the red bean to Cuba and with it is included a very traditional Cuban dish of black beans and rice, which is found throughout the island. Beans are a staple ingredient in Cuban cuisine, with many dishes like soy bean stews and soups.

Almost all Cuban dishes have the main ingredient of the traditional 'sofrito', which is a sauce of onion, green pepper, garlic, oregano and bay leaves.

The Cuban way of cooking tends to be very natural and made with very specific ingredients, such as the sofrito mentioned above. They like to use spices like oregano and cumin instead of hotter spices like hot peppers.

Cuba also offers many of the fruits that are famous in the Caribbean, such as pineapple, mangoes, and papayas, as well as many citrus fruits. They also like to incorporate seafood from the surrounding seas into their cooking. For dessert, a favorite is the Cuban flan.

The island is also famous for its sugar cane and coffee. Today, sugarcane accounts represent 70% of Cuba's export earnings. Cuban coffee that is wanted, after all the world.

In sum, Cuban cuisine is essentially known for being simple, down-to-earth home cooking, with each part of the island bringing its own special flavor.


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  1.   Juan said

    Thank you very much excellent text friend