The 10 Most Iconic Dishes of Cuban Cuisine

Here we present a selection of the 10 most representative dishes of Cuban gastronomy, renowned for their vibrant flavor and close relationship with 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 varied cuisine.

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

Top 10 recipes

1.

Ropa Vieja

Ropa Vieja

For lovers of Cuban home cooking, Ropa Vieja is one of the top dishes. It is a traditional dish from the island that allows for a wide variety of preparations, adapted to the available ingredients.

Main Course
1 hour
fried
6 Servings
2.

Arroz con pollo

Arroz con pollo

Arroz con pollo, a traditional Latin American dish, combines flavors and aromas in an explosion of color and textures. With ingredients like 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 Pork

Roast Pork

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

Main Course
1 hour
Baked
8 Servings
4.

Fried Beef

Fried Beef

Fried beef is one of the most traditional dishes in Cuba. It is prepared with shredded beef and is usually served with white rice and fried plantains. It is a dish that is a staple on any truly Cuban table.

Main Course
1 hour
fried
6 Servings
5.

Tostones

Tostones

Tostones, a delight of Cuban cuisine, are pieces of green plantain fried and then smashed. Simple 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 is the globally known combination of rice and black beans, a delicious stew native to island cuisine.

Main Course
1 hour
Boiled
7.

Picadillo a la criolla

Picadillo a la criolla

When we talk about a dish "a la criolla," we usually refer to one that includes the famous Creole sauce, made with tomatoes and chili, highly appreciated by Cubans. This picadillo is an example of a traditional and versatile dish, ideal to accompany with congri.

Main Course
1 hour
Boiled
6 Servings
8.

Tamal en cazuela

Tamal en cazuela

Tamal en cazuela is a traditional dish with roots dating back to native aborigines. Its preparation is a culinary ceremony, with corn dough, pork, and vegetables cooked slowly in a pot. 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 filled with intense flavors: the crispy golden bread, the juicy marinated meat, the sweet ham, the creamy cheese, and the acidic touch of pickles combine in an explosion of taste that delights palates.

Appetizers
1 hour
1 Servings
10.

Yuca con mojo

Yuca con mojo

Yuca, that versatile root so beloved in our cuisine, takes center stage in this Yuca con 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

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.

Homemade Crema de vie

Homemade Crema de vie

Homemade Crema de Vie is a delicious traditional drink, affectionately known as 'the cream of life'. This exquisite blend of sugar, water, egg yolks, vanilla, and cream is very popular among friends and family, who gift it in beautifully decorated bottles as a token of affection.

Drinks
1 hour
5 Servings
2.

Breaded Fish

Breaded Fish

As usual, Cubans make many fish-based recipes. Breaded fish cannot go unnoticed in the gastronomic repertoire, as it is the best that the citizens of the Caribbean island know how to do.

Main Course
1 hour
fried
6 Servings
3.

Cuban-style Liver

Cuban-style Liver

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

Main Course
1 hour
6 Servings
4.

Rabo encendido

Rabo encendido

Among the most cherished and popular traditional recipes of Cuba is the delicious rabo encendido. This special dish stands out for its perfect combination of native ingredients that evoke Caribbean flavors with every bite.

Main Course
1 hour
Boiled
5 Servings
5.

Cheese Cream Soup

Cheese Cream Soup

In this lovely soup recipe, you will be amazed by the preparation. With a base of milk and cheese, it incorporates various ingredients that you will want to savor over and over again. It is truly delicious, which is why we present you the recipe for cheese cream soup in the purest Cuban style.

Soups
1 hour
Boiled
4 Servings
6.

Lobster Enchilado

Lobster Enchilado

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

Main Course
1 hour
Boiled
6 Servings
7.

Roasted Chicken in Casserole

Roasted Chicken in Casserole

A juicy chicken worthy of preparation. With a sweet and sour flavor, this dish includes special seasonings like wine, bay leaf, and garlic. Undoubtedly, it is a great hearty dish to serve on any gathering or occasion.

Main Course
1 hour
Boiled
4 Servings
8.

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 brightens the table of the Cuban people.

Main Course
1 hour
Boiled
6 Servings
9.

Chiviricos

Chiviricos

Chiviricos are usually a quite different appetizer. They are usually made as a snack and are even commonly seen served at parties and gatherings. They can also be accompanied by creams or dips and are truly delicious.

Appetizers
1 hour
fried
4 Servings
10.

Malanga fritters

Malanga fritters

Malanga is a starchy tuber very common in traditional Cuban cuisine. Since ancient times, it has been part of the diet of the aborigines, thanks to its valuable nutritional contribution. It is versatile in the kitchen and rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals.

Appetizers
1 hour
fried
6 Servings