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Abuelo’s lasagne served with garlic bread.

Lasagne – Abuelo’s Way

Let’s start with the obvious question, “What is a lasagne recipe doing on a Cuban recipe website?” Answer, “Everybody loves lasagne!” I have read many recipes on the internet and every one of them say, ‘this recipe is the best’. It’s my mom makes the best, my nonna makes the best, or my dad makes …

What is Yuca?

Yuca, pronounced Yoo-ka, is a starchy tuberous root also commonly known as cassava. However, yuca is not the same thing as yucca. I see many recipes and articles interchanging the two. Yucca is a shrub with white flowers that grows in dry climates.  Yuca is a tubular root vegetable like a potato. It grows in …

Picture of a frita cubana (Cuban hamburger)

Frita Cubana (Cuban Hamburger)

What is a Frita Cubana? A frita (free-tah) cubana is the Cuban hamburger. The patty consists of ground beef and pork and sometimes chorizo. It is topped with shoestring potatoes stuffed into a soft bun. The frita cubana dates back to the early 1900’s. They were sold out of carts on the streets of Havana …

Bistec Encebollado on a dinner plate.

Bistec Encebollado (Cuban Steak with Onions)

What is Bistec Encebollado? Many people ask, “What is bistec encebollado?” Bistec encebollado is marinated Cuban steak and grilled onions.  Many  Cubans do not have access to high quality cuts of meat. Therefore, they make the best out of lower quality cuts of meat. For example, bistec is made from top sirloin cut very thin …

Packing for Cuba – Five Mistakes to Avoid

After the physical and emotional turmoil brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic, we are all well overdue for a relaxing vacation – and Cuba is just the place for one. Avoid these five mistakes when packing for Cuba and you will be a step ahead on your perfect getaway. With its rich culture, tropical climate, …

Cuban picadillo pictured with sides.

Authentic Cuban Picadillo Recipe

What is Cuban Picadillo? Cuban picadillo (pronounced “peekah-dee-yoh”) is a beloved dish in Cuban cuisine. Picadillo means minced meat or ground beef. It features seasoned ground beef simmered with a base of sofrito (a sofrito is a flavorful mixture of sautéed onions, bell peppers and garlic), tomatoes (or tomato sauce), and a blend of spices. …

Cuban Sandwich

What is a Cuban Sandwich? A  Cuban sandwich or “Cubano” is a sandwich that starts with light, airy Cuban bread that shatters with a satisfying crunch, revealing layers of savory roasted pork, salty ham, and melty Swiss cheese. Tangy pickles and mustard add a delightful contrast, making every bite a flavor explosion. THAT’S IT – …

Santiago, Cuba

When Is the Best Time to go to Cuba?

My husband and I have been wanting to visit Cuba for a while. He was born in Havana and has always wanted to see his birthplace. So naturally, when you want to go somewhere, you want to know when the best time to go is. Hands down, everywhere I look, the answer is the best …

Fried Albondigas - Cuban Style - served with white rice and plantains

Cuban Fried Albondigas (Cuban Meatballs)

Cuban Fried Albondigas: A Delicious Twist on a Classic Craving a hearty and flavorful meal? Look no further than Cuban Fried Albondigas! These savory, deep-fried meatballs are a vibrant twist on the traditional Cuban Albondigas dish, normally simmered in a rich sofrito sauce. What are Albondigas? The Spanish word for meatballs is albondigas. Albondigas are …