21+ Cuban Recipes

Cuban cuisine offers a rich blend of flavors and traditions that reflect the island’s diverse cultural history. Exploring 21 Cuban recipes will give you a taste of this vibrant culinary world, bringing the warmth and spice of Cuba right to your kitchen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking to try something new, these recipes provide a wonderful way to experience the unique tastes of Cuban food.

You’ll find that Cuban dishes often feature ingredients like citrus, garlic, and a variety of herbs and spices. From hearty stews to refreshing salads, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Dive into these recipes and discover the delicious, comforting flavors that make Cuban cuisine so special.

1) Ropa Vieja

Ropa Vieja is a classic Cuban dish known for its deliciously tender shredded beef. The beef is slow-cooked until it falls apart. It is then mixed with a savory tomato sauce.

To start, you need some flank steak. Season it with salt and pepper and sear in a hot pan. After searing, set the beef aside and use the same pan to sauté onions and bell peppers.

Next, add minced garlic to the pan and cook for about 30 seconds. Pour in tomato sauce, dry white wine, cumin, and oregano. Add bay leaves for extra flavor. Let it simmer for 15-20 minutes.

Put the shredded beef back into the pan. Stir the meat into the tomato sauce until everything is well combined. Simmer for a few more minutes to let the flavors meld together.

Ropa Vieja is often served with rice and black beans. It also pairs well with fried plantains. Garnish with fresh cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.

2) Cuban Sandwich

The Cuban Sandwich, or Cubano, is a favorite among many. It is a delicious blend of flavors and textures.

To make this sandwich, you start with Cuban bread or a suitable alternative like ciabatta. Cut it in half horizontally and lightly butter the outsides.

Spread mustard on the inside of both halves. Layer Swiss cheese, pickles, ham, and roasted pork shoulder in that order.

You can make the pork by marinating it in a mixture of orange juice, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, and oregano.

Cook the pork until it’s tender, then slice it thin for the sandwich.

Once assembled, press the sandwich in a preheated skillet or a panini press. Heat until the bread is crispy and the cheese melts.

The result is a savory, tangy, and satisfying meal that is hard to resist. Enjoy your Cuban Sandwich with a side of plantain chips or a simple salad.

3) Cuban Picadillo

Cuban Picadillo is a classic dish that combines ground beef with a mix of vegetables and spices. It’s flavorful and easy to prepare for any meal. You typically start by heating oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and green peppers, cooking until softened.

Next, add minced garlic and sauté briefly. Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned. Season with cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Some recipes also include tomato paste or sauce for more depth of flavor.

Picadillo often features additional ingredients like raisins and olives. These add a sweet and savory balance to the dish. Some variations might also include a splash of dry white wine, which enhances the overall taste.

Simmer everything together until the flavors meld. Serve your Cuban Picadillo over white rice or with a side of fried plantains. You can also use it as a filling for tacos or empanadas.

4) Lechon Asado

Lechon Asado is a traditional Cuban roast pork dish that is beloved for its deep flavors and tender meat. This dish is perfect for special occasions and gatherings.

To start, you need a pork shoulder or pork butt. It’s marinated in a mixture of citrus juices, garlic, and spices like oregano and cumin. The marinade is called mojo, and it infuses the meat with vibrant flavors.

Before cooking, let the pork sit at room temperature for at least an hour. Preheat your oven to around 350°F. Place the marinated pork in a roasting pan and cover it with aluminum foil.

Roast the pork for several hours, basting it occasionally with the marinade. The exact cooking time depends on the weight of the pork. For example, a 4-pound roast will need about 2 hours.

Once the pork is nearly done, increase the oven temperature to around 450°F to crisp up the skin. This step is crucial for that delicious, crispy exterior.

When finished, the pork should have an internal temperature of 180°F. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with some of the reserved marinade for added flavor.

5) Cuban Black Bean Soup

Cuban Black Bean Soup is a traditional dish full of flavor and spices. This creamy soup is made with black beans, a staple in Cuban cuisine, and cooked until tender.

To start, you’ll want to make a sofrito. Sauté onions, bell peppers, and garlic in oil until they are soft. Add cumin, oregano, vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. This mixture forms the base of your soup.

Next, add the black beans and broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. The longer it cooks, the creamier it becomes. This can take about 4-5 hours on low heat.

You can also use an Instant Pot to speed up the process. Combine the beans, broth, and spices. Seal the vent and cook until the beans are soft, around 1.5-2 hours.

Most recipes suggest removing bay leaves before serving. Some people like to garnish their soup with fresh cilantro, diced onions, or a squeeze of lime. This adds a fresh, vibrant flavor. Enjoy your Cuban Black Bean Soup with rice or crusty bread on the side.

By following these simple steps, you can create a delicious Cuban Black Bean Soup right in your kitchen.

6) Vaca Frita

Vaca Frita is a traditional Cuban dish made from flank steak. The name translates to “fried cow,” but don’t be misled—it’s tender and flavorful.

To make Vaca Frita, start by boiling the flank steak with bay leaves and salt in a pot. Once tender, shred the meat.

Next, heat some oil in a large skillet. Sauté onions until golden brown, then add garlic.

Deglaze the pan with lime and orange juice. Once the liquid is absorbed, move the onions aside in the skillet.

Now, add the shredded beef to the skillet. Increase the heat to high and cook until the beef is crispy and golden brown.

Remember to stir frequently. This keeps the meat from burning and ensures an even, crispy texture.

Serve Vaca Frita with rice and black beans for a complete meal. Add a wedge of lime on the side for extra zest.

Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of this classic Cuban dish.

7) Cuban Mojo Chicken

Cuban Mojo Chicken is a flavorful dish inspired by traditional Cuban cuisine. The key to this recipe is the mojo sauce, a vibrant blend of citrus, garlic, and herbs.

To make the marinade, you need orange juice, lime juice, fresh cilantro, garlic cloves, lime zest, ground cumin, dried oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix these ingredients in a blender until smooth.

Marinate the chicken in this sauce. For best results, let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours. Overnight marination brings out even more flavor.

When ready to cook, preheat your oven to 350°F. Place chicken thighs in a baking pan with the marinade. Arrange some orange wedges around the chicken for added zest.

Bake the chicken with the skin side down for 30 minutes. Then, turn the chicken and bake for another 20 minutes or until the skin turns golden brown.

Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F to ensure it is fully cooked. Let the chicken rest for 10 minutes before serving to lock in the juices. Optional garnishes include lemon, lime, or extra orange slices. You can pair this dish with rice or salad for a complete meal.

8) Arroz con Pollo

Arroz con Pollo is a classic Cuban dish that combines chicken and rice in a flavorful and hearty meal. To start, you brown chicken pieces in a large pot or skillet. This adds a rich flavor to the chicken.

Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside. In the same pot, sauté onions, peppers, and garlic until they soften. Next, add your seasonings like cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir in tomato sauce and dry cooking wine for added depth.

Return the chicken to the pot and add chicken stock. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. After about 30 minutes, stir in rice, bijol or saffron for color, and any additional spices you prefer.

Cover the pot and let the rice cook until it’s tender and the liquid is absorbed. This usually takes about 40 minutes. You can also add ingredients like pimientos, peas, or olives for extra flavor and color.

Serve your Arroz con Pollo hot, making sure each plate gets a generous portion of chicken and rice. This dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings. It’s a comforting and satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser.

9) Cuban Tostones

Cuban Tostones, or fried plantains, are a popular and tasty side dish. They are easy to make and require only a few simple ingredients.

First, you need to prepare the plantains. Cut the ends off and peel the skin. Slice the plantains into 1 1/2-inch thick pieces.

Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Put the plantain slices into the hot oil. Fry them for about 3 minutes or until they are slightly golden.

Remove the plantains from the oil and drain them on paper towels. Use a plantain press or a folded paper towel to smash the plantains to about 1/2 inch thick.

Put the smashed plantains back into the frying pan. Fry them again for 4-5 minutes until they are golden brown on both sides.

Once done, drain the tostones on paper towels. Sprinkle with salt while they are still hot. Serve them warm and enjoy!

For added flavor, you can serve the tostones with a simple mojo sauce. A quick mix of lime juice, garlic, and salt creates a tangy dip that pairs well with the crispiness of the tostones.

10) Moros y Cristianos

Moros y Cristianos, also known as Cuban Black Beans and Rice, is a popular Cuban dish. It’s a flavorful mix of white rice and black beans.

You start by sautéing green peppers and onions in a bit of oil. This gives the dish its rich aroma. Garlic is added next for extra depth.

Once the veggies are soft, you add the rice and black beans. Many recipes also include bay leaves, cumin, oregano, and a touch of salt and pepper. These spices enhance the taste.

The beans and rice cook together in a pot. You might use chicken stock or water, depending on preference. Cooking everything together allows the flavors to meld perfectly.

This dish pairs well with many Cuban meals. It’s filling, nutritious, and easy to make. Once cooked, you can serve it as a main dish or a side.

11) Yuca con Mojo

Yuca con Mojo is a classic Cuban dish that pairs perfectly with various meats. The main ingredient is yuca, also known as cassava, which is a starchy root vegetable.

First, you need to peel the yuca and cut it into chunks. Boil it in salted water with a few bay leaves until it becomes tender. This usually takes about an hour.

While the yuca is boiling, prepare the mojo sauce. Heat some olive oil in a pan and sauté minced garlic until it’s fragrant. Add sour orange juice, cumin, oregano, and a pinch of salt. Let the sauce simmer for a few minutes.

Once the yuca is tender, drain it and place it in a serving dish. Pour the hot mojo sauce over the yuca, making sure every piece is well-coated. Let it sit for a few minutes so the flavors can meld together.

Yuca con Mojo is best served warm. It has a wonderful combination of flavors—garlicky, tangy, and savory. You can garnish it with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Enjoy this traditional Cuban dish as a side at your next meal. It’s simple to make and absolutely delicious.

12) Cuban Flan

Cuban Flan is a delicious dessert that features rich, creamy custard with a golden caramel top. It’s a classic in Cuban cuisine, enjoyed by many.

To make Cuban Flan, start by preheating your oven to around 350°F (175°C). You will need eggs, cream cheese, sugar, and water.

First, prepare the caramel. In a saucepan, melt sugar with water over medium heat until it becomes a dark caramel. Carefully pour the caramel into a flan mold.

Next, mix the custard ingredients. Combine milk, eggs, cream cheese, and vanilla extract. Pour this mixture into the mold over the caramel.

Place the flan mold in a larger pan filled with water. This water bath, or “bain-marie,” helps the flan cook evenly. Bake the flan for about 1 hour and 15 minutes or until set.

Once baked, let the flan cool to room temperature. Then, refrigerate it for at least 10 hours or overnight. This step is crucial to achieve the perfect texture.

When ready to serve, run a thin knife around the edges to loosen it from the mold. Invert the mold onto a serving plate to reveal the caramel top. Enjoy this delightful Cuban treat!

13) Empanadas

Empanadas are a beloved Cuban snack. These pastries are stuffed with savory fillings and can be either baked or fried. You will often find them filled with seasoned ground beef, known as picadillo, which includes ingredients like onions, bell peppers, and garlic.

To make empanada dough, you’ll need flour, lard, salt, and a touch of cinnamon sugar syrup. Mix these ingredients in a bowl until a smooth dough forms. Knead the dough until it’s soft, smooth, and not sticky.

For the filling, start by heating oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook ground beef until it browns, then add onions and bell peppers. Sauté until vegetables are soft.

After preparing the filling and dough, lay out dough disks on a cutting board. Spoon the filling into the center of each disk, fold them over, and seal the edges.

You can either bake or fry the empanadas. To bake, preheat your oven to 400 degrees, place the empanadas on a lined baking sheet, and bake until golden brown for about 20-30 minutes. For frying, heat oil in a large frying pan and cook until they are crisp and golden.

Enjoy your homemade Cuban empanadas as a delicious snack or meal.

14) Cuban Arroz Imperial

Cuban Arroz Imperial, or Imperial Rice, is a flavorful and hearty dish. It combines shredded chicken, rice, spices, and usually a layer of cheese or mayonnaise.

Start by cooking the chicken with spices like oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Shred the cooked chicken and set it aside.

Next, cook yellow rice. You can use chicken stock to boost the flavor.

In a baking dish, spread a layer of rice. Add a layer of shredded chicken on top.

For some recipes, you will add a thin layer of mayonnaise or cheese between the layers.

Repeat the layering until you use all your ingredients. Finish with a layer of shredded cheese.

Bake the dish in an oven preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 15-20 minutes. The cheese should be melted and bubbly.

Serve Cuban Arroz Imperial hot. It’s a great dish for family gatherings or special occasions.

15) Frijoles Negros

Frijoles Negros, or Cuban black beans, are a staple in Cuban cuisine. They are bursting with flavor and can be served over white rice for a complete meal.

Start by soaking black beans overnight. This helps to soften the beans and reduce cooking time. Drain and rinse the beans before cooking.

In a large pot, add the beans and enough water to cover them. Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer. You’ll want to cook the beans until they are tender.

While the beans are cooking, heat some olive oil in a pan. Sauté onions, green pepper, and garlic until they are softened and translucent. This mixture will add a lot of flavor to your beans.

Add the sautéed vegetables to the pot of beans along with oregano, cumin, salt, and bay leaves. Some recipes include sugar and a bit of sherry or red wine vinegar for extra depth. Let everything simmer together until the flavors meld.

Remove the bay leaves before serving. Your Frijoles Negros are now ready to enjoy! Serve over white rice for a traditional Cuban meal.

16) Cuban Tamales

Cuban tamales are a delicious twist on traditional tamales. You’ll need pork, cornmeal, garlic, onions, bell peppers, and various seasonings. Start by marinating chunks of pork in mojo for about an hour.

Next, prepare a sofrito by sautéing onions, bell peppers, and garlic in olive oil until tender. Add pureed tomatoes and cook for a couple of minutes.

For the tamale dough, blend cornmeal, cream-style sweet corn, salt, cumin, and black pepper until you reach a thick consistency. Set this mixture aside.

Brown the marinated pork in a large saucepan. Once the pork is browned, combine it with the sofrito and cornmeal mixture.

To assemble the tamales, spread the mixture onto soaked corn husks or banana leaves. Fold the husks or leaves to form a compact package.

Arrange the tamales vertically in a steamer basket and steam them for about 1 hour and 30 minutes until the masa is fully cooked. Keep an eye on the water level to ensure it doesn’t dry out.

Serve your Cuban tamales hot, either as a main dish or a side. They pair well with black beans and a fresh salad. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors!

17) Cuban Sandwich Spread

A Cuban sandwich spread is a versatile and tasty way to enjoy the flavors of a traditional Cuban sandwich without all the fuss of assembling one. It combines the essential elements of a Cuban sandwich into a spreadable form.

Start with finely chopped roast pork. Marinate the pork with a mix of orange juice, lime juice, garlic, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook the pork until it reaches 145ºF, then shred or chop it finely.

Next, take diced pieces of ham and Swiss cheese. Mix these with the prepared pork. Add a bit of yellow mustard and, optionally, mayonnaise to create a creamy texture.

Finely chop pickles and stir them into the mix. This adds a tangy crunch that balances the flavors well.

Serve this spread on crusty Cuban bread or crackers. It’s great as a party appetizer or a simple snack. You can also use it as a filling for sliders or wraps.

Enjoy the authentic taste of a Cuban sandwich in a convenient, easy-to-make spread.

18) Croquetas de Jamon

Croquetas de Jamon, or Cuban Ham Croquettes, are a tasty appetizer made with ground ham and a creamy béchamel sauce. These crispy bites are a favorite at parties and gatherings.

Start by blending the ham in a food processor until smooth. Melt butter in a large skillet, then cook finely chopped onions until soft. Add flour and cook for a few minutes to form a roux.

Slowly whisk in milk, continuing to stir until the mixture thickens into a smooth sauce. Add nutmeg, salt, and pepper for flavor. Stir in the ground ham and mix until well combined.

Pour the mixture into a dish and let it cool in the refrigerator for an hour. Once chilled, shape the mixture into small croquettes. Dip them into an egg wash and roll them in breadcrumbs.

Heat oil in a deep pan over medium-high heat. Fry the croquettes in batches until they turn golden brown. Place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Serve Croquetas de Jamon warm, often with a side of Mayoketchup, a simple sauce made from mayonnaise and ketchup mixed together. Enjoy these delicious bites as a snack or appetizer.

19) Malanga Fritters

Malanga fritters, known as frituras de malanga, are a popular Cuban appetizer. They are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.

To make the fritters, start by peeling and grating malanga. In a bowl, mix the grated malanga with eggs, mashed garlic, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. The mixture should have a consistency similar to mashed potatoes.

Allow the mixture to rest in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This helps the flavors to meld together.

Heat a large pot with enough vegetable oil to fry the fritters. The oil should be about 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Scoop small spoonfuls of the malanga mixture into the hot oil.

Fry the fritters for 2-4 minutes, flipping occasionally, until both sides are golden brown. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan.

Once fried, place the fritters on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve them hot and enjoy their delicious crunch.

20) Cuban Chicken Soup

Cuban Chicken Soup, known as Sopa de Pollo, is a comforting and hearty soup. It’s packed with flavors from fresh vegetables, herbs, and tender chicken.

To start, you use ingredients like onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. These are common in Cuban cooking and add depth to your soup. Olive oil is often used for sautéing the vegetables.

You then add chicken pieces to the pot. Both dark and white meat can be used. The chicken is browned lightly before adding water and seasonings such as bay leaves, oregano, and cumin.

A unique step in making Cuban Chicken Soup involves adding sofrito. Sofrito is a mix of onions, garlic, and green peppers sautéed in olive oil. This boosts the flavor profile of your soup.

After the chicken is cooked through, it is shredded and added back into the pot. You can also include noodles such as egg noodles to make it more filling. The soup is then simmered until the noodles soften.

Finally, fresh lemon juice is stirred in for a bit of brightness. Some recipes call for additional greens like spinach or a hint of dill for extra flavor. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, savory taste of Cuban Chicken Soup.

21) Pernil

Pernil is a popular Cuban dish made with pork shoulder. To make it authentically, start by cleaning the pork with cold water and patting it dry.

Create deep slits on the flesh side and insert garlic cloves into each slit for extra flavor.

Marinate the pork overnight. Use a mojo marinade, which typically includes garlic, citrus juice, and oregano.

Before roasting, score the pork skin in a diamond pattern. Place the marinated pork in a large roasting pan, skin side up.

Cover the pork with aluminum foil and bake at low heat for 5-7 hours.

After baking, remove the foil and increase the oven temperature to 350°F. Bake for another 20 minutes to crisp up the skin.

Once done, let the pork rest for about 10 minutes before serving. If you like, sprinkle lime juice over the meat before eating.

Serve the pernil with rice, beans, or plantains for a complete meal. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of this traditional Cuban roast pork.

The History of Cuban Cuisine

Cuban cuisine reflects a blend of Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences. This rich culinary heritage is shaped by historical events and geographical factors unique to the island.

The Influence of Spanish and African Traditions

Spanish colonization greatly influenced Cuban food. When Spanish settlers arrived, they brought ingredients like cattle, pigs, rice, and spices. These elements became staples in Cuban dishes such as ropa vieja and arroz con pollo.

The Spanish also introduced new cooking techniques. Frying and marinating meat were soon common practices. African slaves brought to Cuba added their own culinary traditions. They introduced ingredients like okra and taro, and cooking methods such as stewing.

These combined influences resulted in unique flavors and textures. Dishes often mix Spanish spices with African methods, creating complex and delicious meals.

The Impact of Cuban Geography on Ingredients

Cuba’s tropical climate and fertile soil provide a variety of local ingredients. The island’s geography has a direct impact on the availability and use of certain foods.

Tropical fruits like mangoes, pineapples, and guavas grow abundantly. These fruits are often used in both sweet and savory dishes. Coastal areas provide seafood such as lobster, shrimp, and fish, essential to dishes like langosta de enchilado.

Cuban agriculture also includes crops like sugarcane, coffee, and tobacco. These are not just economic staples but influence the types of food and drink available, including desserts and beverages. Local availability ensures fresh and flavorful ingredients in Cuban recipes.

Key Ingredients in Cuban Recipes

Cuban cuisine relies on a blend of fresh proteins and a rich array of herbs and spices to create its vibrant flavors. You’ll find a mix of influences from Spanish, African, and Caribbean culinary traditions in these ingredients.

Staple Proteins: Pork, Chicken, and Fish

Pork is a cornerstone in Cuban dishes. You’ll often see it in recipes like lechón asado (roast pork) and ropa vieja (shredded beef, sometimes swapped with pork). The meat is typically marinated in a mix of citrus juice, garlic, and cumin, infusing it with bold flavors.

Chicken is ubiquitous in Cuban cooking. Dishes like arroz con pollo (chicken with rice) feature marinated chicken cooked with rice, peas, and peppers. The marinade often includes lime juice, garlic, and paprika.

Fish and other seafood are also prevalent, especially in coastal areas. A popular dish is Cuban Shrimp Creole, which combines shrimp with tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions. The seafood is typically seasoned with lemon juice, garlic, and a touch of spice to enhance its natural sweetness.