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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.

Cuban Picadillo

What is Cuban Picadillo? Cuban picadillo (pronounced “peekah-dill-ohz”) means minced meat or ground beef. It is cooked with sofrito, tomatoes or tomato sauce and spices. Many Latin countries and even the Phillipines all have their own versions. Even people from different parts of Cuba have their own versions. My Cuban mother in law taught me …

Cuban sandwich and french fries on a plate.

Cuban Sandwich

What is a Cuban Sandwich? A  Cuban sandwich or “Cubano” is a sandwich that starts with Cuban bread, mustard and 3 pickles. In between the bread is pork (Lechon), ham, and swiss. THAT’S IT – NOTHING ELSE! As I was preparing to write this blog post to share my favorite part about making Lechon which …

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)

What are Albondigas? The Spanish word for meatballs is albondigas. Albondigas are small meatballs made of ground meat and rice. Traditionally, they are served in soup. A broth-based soup loaded with vegetables. Some recipes have potatoes some do not.  Most of the recipes found online are also traditionally Mexican. It is really hard to find …

Photo of Cuban albondigas served with white rice.

Traditional Cuban Albondigas

What are Albondigas? The Spanish word for meatballs is albondigas. Albondigas are small meatballs made of ground meat and rice. Traditionally, they are served in soup. A broth-based soup loaded with vegetables. Some recipes have potatoes some do not.  Most of the recipes found online are also traditionally Mexican. It is really hard to find …