13 Cuban Dishes That Are a Must if You’re Visiting Cuba

Cuba is on my list of countries to try, and so is their cuisine.

Now I love Latin America; the people, the nature, and the cities are all so incredible. But I also love delving into their culinary heritage and trying new dishes. So whenever I see Cuban food, it kind of makes me sad that I haven’t visited yet.

With amazing looking Cuban dishes like ropa vieja and vaca frita, I don’t know why I haven’t been to this island country and had their food sooner.

And if you’re in the same boat as me and you plan on going someday (or you just want to try it at home), then here are 12 popular Cuban dishes to enjoy.

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1. Picadillo

When you look up traditional Cuban food, picadillo is probably going to be one of the first dishes you see.

And while you’ll see it in many Latin American countries, Cuban picadillo is both different and (super) delicious sounding.

Being translated out as “hash,” that’s exactly what you’re going to get. You’ll find ingredients like ground beef, olives, capers, onions, garlic, spices, chilis, and even bell pepper. Also, raisins can be added in for a bit of sweetness, but it just depends on your preference.

And while you can have it served along side some rice, you’ll also see it stuffed into Cuban foods like papa rellena or empanadas.

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2. Pollo a la Plancha

Ok, let’s talk about pollo a la plancha.

It’s Cuban grilled chicken that’s been marinated in mojo sauce (a tangy citrus based sauce). It’s a simple but very tasty sounding dish to try when you’re visiting Cuba or at home.

Also, if you want to try an authentic mojo marinade along with the grilled chicken, then here’s pollo a la plancha recipe to try.

3. Ropa Vieja

Ropa vieja is the most popular food in Cuba and their national dish.

Translating out as “old clothes,” because the strips of meat almost look like a pile of old clothes, it’s a rich tomato based dish with beef, wine, peppers, garlic, and plenty of other spices and ingredients.

It’s an old recipe that originated in Spain over 500 years ago, and it looks like it’s survived for a very good reason; it’s hearty, filling, and sounds incredible.

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4. Boliche

Also called, boliche mechado, it’s a eye of round roast that in some cases has been marinated for up to 48 hours and stuffed with Spanish chorizo. It’s slow cooked, flavorful, tender, and is normally served with moros y crisitanos (black beans with white rice).

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5. Potaje de Garbanzo

While a lot of countries enjoy soups during the colder months, the Cubans could care less about the weather (according to one Cuban food blogger). And if you feel the same way, then potaje de garbanzo (chickpea stew) might be a dish you wanna try.

Having originated in Spain, it’s filled with hearty ingredients like garbanzo beans, chorizo, potatoes, ham, and more.

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6. Frijoles Negros

A very common dish you’ll see in countries like Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Venezula.

Now how they’re prepared might vary depending on the home, but you’ll see them being made with sautéed green peppers, garlic, onions, and plenty of spices.

So if you’re a rice and beans lover, but want to try something a bit different, then Cuban frijoles negros is a great option!

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7. Vaca Frita

Another popular Cuban food, vaca frita is one that you don’t want to miss.

Translated out as “fried cow,” it’s shredded flank (or skirt) steak that’s been marinated in lime, garlic, oil, and seasonings, and then pan fried until crispy.

And before it’s ready to be eaten, it’s topped with some sautéed onions and served with rice and beans.

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8. Masas de Cerdo Frita

If you’re craving something crispy, savory, and citrusy, then masas de cerdo frita is a great dish to try.

It’s pork that’s been marinated in mojo sauce and other spices, and then fried until golden brown. It’s not so healthy, but it does sound pretty good. 👌

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9. Tostones

I love tostones! They are so much fun to eat; perfectly crispy and satisfying.

This simple snack is made up of a twice fried unripe plantains, and you’ll find it being served alongside so many dishes like frijoles negros and vaca frita. Or you can just eat them as is!

They really are a Cuban staple.

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10. Maduros

Now if you want to try another Cuban plantain recipe, then you might like this sweet option.

And instead of the plantains being underripe (like when you’re making tostones), you’ll normally see very ripe ones being used for maduros.

Then they’re pan fried in oil, topped with a sprinkling of salt, and enjoyed.

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11. Cuban Flan

Flan will always be a favorite of mine. I’ve had it in plenty of countries like Mexico, Peru, Colombia, and Argentina. And I especially love it when it’s served with dulce de leche!

But the Cuban version sounds a little too good. Made with both sweetened condensed and evaporated milk, it looks super caramely and delicious.

And apparently, it’s creamier, thicker, and sweeter than normal flan, so I’m definitely looking forward to trying it!

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12. Guava Pastelitos

I will never turn down a guava filled pastry. The sweet tangy filling always pairs so well with the flaky dough.

And this popular Cuban pastry makes for a great snack to pair with a coffee. Also, you’ll see it being enjoyed as a part of a snack, breakfast, or dessert.

Oh, and if you love cream cheese, then there’s also a version of the pastry that has that too.

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13. Cafe Cubano (Cuban Espresso)

Cafe Cubano is a drink you’ll see being commonly enjoyed in Cuba.

Typically made with a moka pot, it’s shot of espresso that’s been sweetened with natural brown sugar. But to do this, the locals will whisk the first drops of espresso and sugar into a foam (also called espumita). And then it’s mixed in with the rest of the coffee.

And if you like a strong coffee, then this is probably the drink for you since it’s made with dark roasts.

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Great Resources for Authentic Cuban Recipes

If you want to make sure you’re trying authentic Cuban recipes at home, then here are some great sites to check out!

• A Sassy Spoon
• Three Guys from Miami
• Bean Train
• Fat Girl Hedonist
• Coco and Ash