The 10 most representative dishes of Cuban gastronomy

Next, we present a selection of the 10 most representative dishes of Cuban cuisine, known for their vibrant flavor and their close connection to the country's history and traditions.

These dishes, passed down from generation to generation, blend local ingredients with African, Spanish, and Caribbean influences, resulting in a rich and diverse cuisine.

From Ropa Vieja, a shredded meat stew with vegetables and spices, to Arroz con Pollo, a flavorful dish that combines rice, chicken, and vegetables, each recipe reflects Cuban cultural identity and culinary warmth.

The most viewed recipes on our site

Here is the list of the most popular recipes on our website. We hope you enjoy them and feel inspired to try them out.

1.

Breaded Fish

Breaded Fish

In Cuba, many recipes feature fish, and this is one of the favorites. Breaded fish is one of those simple dishes that always turn out great when made with care.

Main Course
1 hour
fried
6 Servings
2.

Homemade Crema de Vie

Homemade Crema de Vie

Homemade Crema de Vie is a traditional Cuban beverage. Usually called "the cream of life" for its taste and flavor. It is made with sugar, water, egg yolks, vanilla, and cream, making it relatively easy to prepare.

Drinks
1 hour
5 Servings
3.

Cheese Creams

Cheese Creams

This is one of the simplest Cuban soup recipes that exist. It is based on a very simple combination of milk and cheese.

Soups
1 hour
Boiled
4 Servings
4.

Lobster Enchilado

Lobster Enchilado

Imagine the possibility of delighting yourself with a delicious lobster dish in an irresistible Caribbean sauce, simply delightful.

Main Course
1 hour
Boiled
6 Servings
5.

Oxtail Stew

Oxtail Stew

This is a tasty Cuban stew, which likely came from Spain (perhaps Andalusia), but has blended with the ingredients and flavors unique to the island.

Main Course
1 hour
Boiled
5 Servings
6.

Cuban-Style Liver

Cuban-Style Liver

For those who enjoy beef liver, I bring you this unique Cuban recipe. It is accompanied by vegetables and deliciously seasoned to satisfy even the most demanding palate.

Main Course
1 hour
6 Servings
7.

Roasted Chicken in Casserole

Roasted Chicken in Casserole

This chicken is slowly cooked in a casserole with garlic, onion, peppers, tomato, and dry wine. It is a delightful dish that can be accompanied by rice or plantains.

Main Course
1 hour
Boiled
4 Servings
8.

Chiviricos

Chiviricos

Chiviricos are usually a very different kind of appetizer. They are typically made for snacks or tea time and it’s common to see them served at parties and gatherings. They can also be accompanied by creams or dips and are truly delicious.

Appetizers
1 hour
fried
4 Servings
9.

Cuban Chicken Fricassee

Cuban Chicken Fricassee

Cuban chicken fricassee is not just a simple stewed chicken, but a delicious and traditional dish from the Caribbean island that always brings joy to the table in Cuba.

Main Course
1 hour
Boiled
6 Servings
10.

Cuban Custard

Cuban Custard

Cuban custard is a very simple and inexpensive dessert that revives traditions. It is quite creamy and can be served at any event or occasion (whether formal or as a snack for the little ones in the house).

Pastry
1 hour
Boiled
6 Servings

Top 10 recipes

1.

Ropa Vieja

Ropa Vieja

For lovers of homemade Cuban food, ropa vieja is one of the classic dishes. It is a traditional island dish that allows for a wide variety of preparations, adapted to the available ingredients.

Main Course
1 hour
fried
6 Servings
2.

Chicken and Rice

Chicken and Rice

Chicken and Rice, a traditional Latin American dish, combines flavors and aromas in an explosion of color and textures. With ingredients such as chicken, rice, vegetables, and spices, each bite is a delight for the palate, perfect for sharing on any special occasion.

Main Course
1 hour
8 Servings
3.

Roast Piglet

Roast Piglet

Roast piglet is Cuba's star dish for celebrations. The golden, crispy skin and juicy, aromatic meat are the result of a slow and careful cooking process that fills the air with its irresistible aroma.

Main Course
1 hour
Baked
8 Servings
4.

Fried Cow

Fried Cow

Fried cow is one of the most traditional dishes of Cuba. It is prepared with shredded beef and is usually accompanied by white rice and fried plantains. It is a dish that is present on every table that prides itself on being truly Cuban.

Main Course
1 hour
fried
6 Servings
5.

Tostones

Tostones

Tostones, a delight from Cuban cuisine, are pieces of green plantain fried and then flattened. Easy to prepare, they are perfect as a side dish or appetizer. A combination of flavors and textures that will conquer your palate.

Appetizers
1 hour
fried
6 Servings
6.

Moros y cristianos

Moros y cristianos

Moros y cristianos is a traditional recipe that we cannot overlook. It features the world-famous combination of rice and black beans, a delicious autochthonous stew from island cuisine.

Main Course
1 hour
Boiled
7.

Picadillo a la Criolla

Picadillo a la Criolla

When talking about a "a la criolla" dish, we usually refer to one that features the famous criolla sauce, made with tomato and chili, so appreciated by Cubans. This picadillo is an example of a highly traditional and versatile dish, perfect to serve with rice.

Main Course
1 hour
Boiled
6 Servings
8.

Pot in a Casserole

Pot in a Casserole

The Pot in a Casserole is a traditional dish with roots that date back to native indigenous cultures. Its preparation is a culinary ceremony, with corn dough, pork meat, and vegetables cooked slowly in a casserole. A delight for the palate and the soul.

Main Course
1 hour
8 Servings
9.

Cuban Sandwich

Cuban Sandwich

The Cuban sandwich is a classic full of intense flavors; the crispy golden bread, juicy marinated meat, sweet ham, creamy cheese, and the tangy touch of pickles combine in an explosion of flavor that delights the palate.

Appetizers
1 hour
1 Servings
10.

Yuca with Mojo

Yuca with Mojo

Yuca, that versatile root cherished in our cuisine, takes center stage in this Yuca with Mojo recipe. Bathed in a tangy orange sauce, it becomes a delicious appetizer that pairs perfectly with other delights like fish croquettes.

Appetizers
1 hour
4 Servings