13 Delicious Cuban Food Recipes You Must Try Today  

Craving a culinary adventure that’s bursting with vibrant flavors, rich traditions, and a touch of tropical sunshine? Look no further than Cuban cuisine! A melting pot of Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences, Cuban food is a delightful fusion that’s bold, comforting, and unforgettable. From tender, slow-cooked meats to crispy, golden snacks and luscious desserts, these Cuban food recipes capture the essence of the island’s spirit and culture.  Whether you’re planning a festive dinner or just looking to spice up your weekly menu, these 13 must-try Cuban recipes will whisk you away to the heart of Havana—no passport required. Ready to dive into this flavorful journey? Let’s get cooking Cuban food recipes. 

Ropa Vieja

This national dish of Cuba, meaning “old clothes,” showcases tender, slow-cooked shredded beef in a rich tomato-based sauce. The addition of peppers, onions, and a medley of spices like cumin and oregano gives this dish its characteristic depth and warmth. 

Ingredients 

• 2 lbs of flank steak or brisket 

• 2 bell peppers (red and green), sliced 

• 1 large onion, sliced 

• Garlic cloves, minced 

• Tomato paste and diced tomatoes 

• Dry white wine 

Cooking Tip

Simmer the beef until it becomes tender enough to shred easily. For the most authentic flavor, cook it in a cast-iron Dutch oven or slow cooker. 

Serve With

White rice, black beans, and fried plantains complete the meal.  

Cuban Sandwich (Cubano)

The Cuban sandwich is a global favorite, renowned for its perfect balance of flavors and textures. Layers of tender roasted pork, savory ham, melted Swiss cheese, zesty pickles, and tangy mustard are pressed between crusty Cuban bread. 

Ingredients 

• 1 loaf of Cuban bread (substitute with French or Italian bread if unavailable) 

• Roasted pork slices 

• Honey-glazed ham 

• Swiss cheese 

• Dill pickles and yellow mustard 

Pro Tip 

Use a panini press or a heavy skillet to press the sandwich, ensuring the bread becomes crispy and the cheese melts perfectly. 

Picadillo

A hearty and comforting dish, Picadillo is Cuba’s answer to a savory stew. Ground beef is simmered with tomatoes, green olives, capers, and raisins for a sweet-and-savory flavor profile. 

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef 

• 1/2 cup green olives, sliced 

• 1/4 cup raisins 

• 1 cup tomato sauce 

• Potatoes (optional) 

Variations 

Add diced potatoes for a richer texture or hard-boiled eggs for a traditional twist. 

Serve With

White rice is used as a filling for empanadas or stuffed peppers. 

Arroz con Pollo

This vibrant yellow rice and chicken dish is a one-pot wonder, celebrated across Cuban households for its simplicity and flavor. The saffron or annatto seasoning gives it its signature golden hue. 

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs or drumsticks 

• 2 cups long-grain rice 

• 1 cup green peas 

• 1 cup diced tomatoes 

• Chicken stock 

Tip

Allow the rice to absorb the chicken stock fully for a moist, flavorful dish. 

Perfect Pairing

Serve with a side of fried plantains or a simple green salad. 

Tostones

Crunchy and savory, Tostones are twice-fried green plantains that are an essential part of Cuban cuisine. These crispy bites are often served with garlic sauce or a sprinkle of salt. 

Ingredients 

• 2 green plantains 

• Salt 

• Oil for frying 

How To

• Peel and slice the plantains into 1-inch rounds. 
• Fry them until golden, flatten them with a plate or tostones, and fry again for the ultimate crunch. 

Dip Ideas

Garlic mojo sauce or a spicy aioli. 

Lechon Asado (Cuban Roast Pork)

Lechon Asado is the centerpiece of any Cuban celebration. The key to its unforgettable flavor lies in the mojo marinade, made with garlic, citrus juices, and spices. The pork is slow-roasted until it’s juicy and tender with a beautifully crispy exterior. 

Ingredients

• 4 lbs pork shoulder 

• 1/2 cup orange juice and lime juice 

• 6 garlic cloves, minced 

• 1 tbsp ground oregano 

• 1/2 cup olive oil 

Pro Tip

Score the pork skin before roasting for even crispier crackling. 

Serve With

Yuca con mojo and black beans. 

Moros y Cristianos (Cuban Black Beans and Rice)

A staple of Cuban cuisine, Moros y Cristianos, meaning “Moors and Christians,” symbolizes the fusion of cultures in Cuban history. This iconic dish combines fluffy white rice (“Christians”) with flavorful black beans (“Moors”), cooked together with aromatic spices and vegetables to create a savory, hearty dish that pairs well with nearly any Cuban main course. 

Ingredients 

• 2 cups white rice 

• 1 1/2 cups dried black beans (or 1 can, rinsed and drained) 

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped 

• 1 green bell pepper, diced 

• 3 garlic cloves, minced 

• 1 tsp ground cumin and oregano 

• 1 bay leaf 

• 1/4 cup olive oil 

• 2 1/2 cups vegetable or chicken broth 

• Salt and pepper to taste 

Pro Tip

For an extra layer of flavor, add a splash of white vinegar or a few dashes of hot sauce before serving. 

Cuban Empanadas

Empanadas are the perfect grab-and-go snack or appetizer. Cuban versions are often filled with Picadillo, chicken, or ham and cheese. 

Ingredients

• Store-bought empanada dough or homemade pastry 

• 2 cups Picadillo or cooked chicken 

• 1 egg (for egg wash) 

Pro Tip 

Seal the edges with a fork to ensure the filling stays put during frying or baking. 

Cuban Mojo Sauce

No Cuban meal is complete without Mojo Sauce. This versatile condiment is a mix of garlic, olive oil, and citrus, used to marinate meats or as a dipping sauce. 

Ingredients

• 1/2 cup orange juice 

• 1/4 cup lime juice 

• 6 garlic cloves, minced 

• 1/2 tsp cumin 

Alternative Use

Drizzle over roasted vegetables or grilled fish for an extra zing. 

Flan Cubano

This rich and creamy custard dessert is a classic Cuban treat. Its caramel topping and velvety texture make it the perfect way to end a Cuban meal. 

Ingredients

• 5 large eggs 

• 1 cup sugar (for caramel) 

• 1 can sweetened condensed milk 

Trick

Use a bain-marie (water bath) for even cooking and to prevent the flan from cracking. 

Croquetas de Jamón (Ham Croquettes)

Crunchy on the outside and creamy on the inside, these ham croquettes are a popular Cuban appetizer. 

Ingredients

• 1 cup ground ham 

• 1/2 cup flour 

• 1 cup milk 

• Breadcrumbs 

Pro Tip

Prepare a large batch and freeze for quick snacks anytime.  

Yuca con Mojo

Yuca, or cassava, is a starchy root vegetable that’s boiled and smothered in a garlic and citrus mojo sauce for a simple yet flavorful dish. 

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh or frozen yuca 

• Garlic mojo sauce 

Pairing Idea 

Serve alongside Lechon Asado for a traditional Cuban feast. 

Plantain Chips (Mariquitas) 

For a lighter snack, plantain chips are a crispy and satisfying option. Thinly sliced plantains are fried in olive oil and lightly salted. These chips are perfect for dipping into Cuban black bean dip or enjoying as a crunchy accompaniment to Cuban sandwiches and other Cuban foods. 

Ingredients  

• 2 large green plantains
• 1/2 cup vegetable oil (for frying)
• Salt, to taste
• Optional: Garlic mojo or lime wedges for serving

Variations

• Sprinkle the chips with chili powder or paprika for a spicy twist.
• Drizzle with a touch of honey or sprinkle sugar over-salted chips for a sweet-and-savory combination.

Conclusion 

These 13 Cuban food recipes bring the island’s vibrant flavors to your kitchen. From comforting stews and hearty sides to crispy snacks and luscious desserts, these dishes showcase the rich cultural fusion of Cuban cuisine. Whether you’re hosting a Cuban-themed dinner party or simply craving bold flavors, these recipes are guaranteed to impress. Which one of these Cuban food recipes will you try first?