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A pleasure experience between tradition and hospitality
In Cuba, food is not just a necessity, but a cultural experience that reflects the island's rich history and diverse influences. Cuban cuisine is a fusion of Spanish, African and Caribbean influences, creating a unique palette of aromas and flavors.
Cuban food is often seen as a social event, where family and friends come together to enjoy traditional dishes and celebrate life. Cuban hospitality is legendary, and visitors can be assured of a warm welcome and generous portions of traditional Cuban food.
Furthermore, food and drink in Cuba plays an important role in the island's cultural identity. Visitors have the opportunity to sample a variety of delicious dishes and refreshing drinks while enjoying the vibrant and welcoming atmosphere of Cuban cuisine.
Classics of Cuban cuisine
Typical of Cuba - traditional dishes you should try!
A delicious dish of tender beef threads in a spicy tomato sauce, accompanied by rice and beans.
Rice and chicken, often cooked with vegetables such as peas and peppers.
Double-fried green plantains served as a crispy side dish or snack.
Slow-grilled pork marinated with garlic, lemon juice and other spices.
A minced meat pan with tomatoes, onions, peppers, olives and spices.
A traditional sandwich with pork, ham, cheese, mustard and pickled gherkins.
Rice and black beans cooked together, often served as a side dish with meat or fish.
Cooked manioc root, served with a spicy garlic-lemon sauce.
A delicious dessert made from eggs, sugar and milk, often with a caramel coating.
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Discover your dream destinations and let yourself be seduced by the unique flavors and tastes of Cuba! Our experienced travel experts are at your disposal to plan your culinary journey and help you experience unforgettable culinary delights. Contact us today to book your Cuba tour and embark on an exciting culinary voyage of discovery, full of adventure and culinary delights!
The variety of tropical fruits in Cuba
Cuba is known for its variety of tropical fruits, which are not only delicious but also very nutritious. One of the most popular fruits is the mango, which is sweet, juicy and available in different varieties. The guava, or guayaba, has an intense flavor and can be eaten raw or made into guava paste, which is often served as a dessert.
Papaya, called frutabomba in Cuba, is a large, sweet fruit with orange flesh and is often used for breakfast or in smoothies. Pineapple, or piña, is sweet and juicy, ideal for eating or in drinks such as pina coladas. Bananas come in different varieties, including small sweet bananas and plantains, which are boiled or fried.
Fresh coconuts, called coco, offer refreshing coconut water and delicious flesh. Mamey sapote, also called mamey colorado, has sweet, orange-colored flesh and is often eaten fresh or in desserts. Cherimoya is heart-shaped with creamy flesh reminiscent of a mixture of banana, pineapple and strawberry. Guanabana, or soursop, is often made into juices or smoothies.
Maracuja, or passion fruit, has aromatic, sour flesh and is often used in drinks and desserts. Zapote is a fruit with brown skin and sweet, soft flesh. Finally, there are the limes, small, green citrus fruits that are used in many Cuban recipes and drinks.
These fruits are often eaten fresh, added to fruit juices and smoothies (batidos), made into sweet desserts or used in savory dishes. The freshness and variety of Cuban fruits are a highlight of Cuban cuisine and offer a great way to enjoy the flavors and food of Cuba.
Unforgettable group trips to Cuba
Experience Cuba with Sprachcaffe! Discover the island in group tours, learn Spanish, immerse yourself in the culture and enjoy unforgettable adventures. Don't miss out on our offers:
Highlights of Cuba
- 8 selected highlights in 8 days
- Havana, Viñales, Trinidad, Cienfuegos etc.
- Hiking in the Topes de Collantes National Park
Treasures of the Caribbean
- green Viñales Valley with its tobacco plantations
- Mexico's Mayan sites, e.g. Chichén Itzá
- Dream beaches Tulum and Playa del Carmen
Cuba's green west
- Cuba's most beautiful landscapes
- Dreamlike white sandy beaches on Cayo Levisa
- Orchid gardens, waterfalls and the tobacco factory in Pinar del Río
Vegetarian and vegan food options in Cuba
As a vegetarian or vegan in Cuba, it can be a little challenging to find suitable dishes, as traditional Cuban cuisine is often based on meat and animal products. However, there are some options and dishes that are suitable for vegetarians and vegans. Black beans and rice, known as moros y cristianos, are a staple of Cuban food. It is important to make sure that no animal fats or pieces of ham have been added. Arroz con Vegetales, rice with vegetables, is also a good option, and there are often variations that are prepared without meat or animal products. Cooked cassava with garlic-lemon sauce, called yuca con mojo, is another dish that can be prepared vegan, provided the mojo is made without lard.
Tostones, twice-fried green plantains, and maduros, ripe, sweet plantains that are sliced and deep-fried, are typically vegan. Various fresh salads, or ensalada, made from tomatoes, cucumbers, avocado and other local vegetables are also a good choice, making sure that the salad is served without cheese or mayonnaise. Black beans, or frijoles negros, are often prepared vegan, but it is advisable to ask if animal fats have been used. Tamales made from corn dough with a vegetable filling, known as tamales vegetariano, can also be a delicious vegan option, provided no animal products have been used. Platanos chips, thin, deep-fried slices of plantain, are a crunchy, vegan snack alternative.
There are some useful tips for vegetarians and vegans in Cuba. It can be helpful to stay in accommodation with its own kitchen so that you can cook for yourself, as markets offer fresh fruit and vegetables. Look for international and Cuban restaurants that specialize in healthy eating, especially in tourist areas where there are often more options. It's also useful to learn some basic Spanish phrases to make it clear that you don't eat meat, dairy or eggs. For example:
- "Soy vegetariano/a" (I am vegetarian).
- "No como carne, pescado, ni productos lácteos" (I don't eat meat, fish or dairy products)
- "No como huevos ni productos animales" (I do not eat eggs or animal products)
With a little planning and flexibility, vegetarians and vegans can eat and enjoy a variety of delicious and nutritious foods in Cuba!
Frequently asked questions about Cuba food
For breakfast in Cuba,"Pan con Bistec" (a sandwich with steak),"Tostadas" (toasted bread) with butter and jam or"Huevos Revueltos" (scrambled eggs) with bread are usually enjoyed.
The cost of eating out in Cuba varies depending on whether you are in a local restaurant or a tourist restaurant. In local restaurants, meals can cost around 5 to 10 CUC (convertible pesos), while in tourist restaurants, prices are typically between 10 and 20 CUC per meal.
Cuban food is generally not spicy. Although some dishes can be spicy, traditional Cuban cuisine focuses on flavors rather than spiciness.
What makes Cuban food unique is the fusion of different cultural influences, including Spanish, African and Caribbean elements. These diverse influences shape the dishes and flavors of Cuban cuisine and offer a unique culinary experience.
The national dish of Cuba is"Ropa Vieja", which translates as "old dress". It is a stewed beef dish with tomato sauce, onions and spices, which is often served with rice and beans.
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We have compiled all the necessary information for you to ensure that your stay in Cuba is pleasant and smooth. You can also find out more about local customs, safety advice and tips for an authentic and unforgettable stay.