20 Cuban Delicacies You Absolutely Have To Experience
Cuban food is bold, soulful, and irresistibly welcoming, the kind of cooking that makes you lean in for one more bite. You will taste bright citrus, slow-cooked meats, and spices that feel familiar yet exciting. From street sandwiches to celebratory roasts, every dish has a story and a rhythm. Ready to find your favorites and plan your next plate?
1. Ropa Vieja
Ropa Vieja is comfort in a pot, with tender strands of beef swimming in a tomato-pepper sauce. You will catch sweet peppers, onions, and a whisper of cumin layered into every bite. Spoon it over fluffy rice and let the juices soak through.
Some versions add olives for briny contrast, and a splash of wine for depth. The slow simmer creates that melt-in-your-mouth texture you crave. Make it on a Sunday, and you will eat happily all week.
2. Lechón Asado (Cuban Roast Pork)
Lechón Asado is the centerpiece of Cuban celebrations, marinated in sour orange, garlic, oregano, and cumin. The pork turns juicy and deeply flavorful, with edges that caramelize beautifully. You will smell the garlic-citrus perfume before the first slice lands.
Some families roast a whole pig, others slow-cook shoulder until it shreds. Drizzle with mojo and pile onto plates with rice and yuca. It is impossible to resist seconds, so plan generously.
3. Cuban Mojo (Mojo Criollo)
Mojo Criollo is the citrus-garlic heartbeat of Cuban cooking. Sour orange, olive oil, oregano, and plenty of minced garlic come together in a punchy sauce. You will splash it on pork, chicken, yuca, and even grilled vegetables without hesitation.
Whisk it fresh so the aromatics sing. If you cannot find sour orange, blend orange, lime, and a touch of grapefruit. The result is bright, savory, and habit-forming.
4. Moros y Cristianos (Black Beans and Rice)
Moros y Cristianos marries black beans and rice into one cozy pot. Sofrito with onions, peppers, and garlic builds the foundation, while bay leaf and cumin add warmth. You will get earthy beans, fluffy grains, and a satisfying aroma.
It is an everyday staple that pairs with everything from roast pork to fried eggs. A drizzle of mojo brightens each spoonful. Make a big batch and enjoy effortless meals.
5. Congrí
Congrí brings rice and beans together with a slightly different personality. Often made with red beans, it carries a gentle smokiness and savory depth. You will taste sofrito and maybe a hint of bacon or pork fat.
Every household has its twist, but the goal is fluffy rice dotted with tender beans. Serve alongside grilled meats or fried plantains. It is hearty, economical, and perfect for gatherings.
6. Picadillo
Picadillo is weeknight magic, turning ground beef into something craveable. Tomatoes, onions, and garlic simmer down with cumin and oregano. You will get briny pops from olives and capers, then a sweet surprise from raisins.
Serve with rice or tuck into empanadas for a quick win. Some cooks add potatoes for extra comfort. However you plate it, that sweet-salty balance keeps you going back.
7. Vaca Frita
Vaca Frita is all about texture and zing. Shredded beef gets seared hard until lacy and crisp at the edges. You will squeeze lime over the sizzling strands and breathe in the oniony aroma.
The meat stays tender inside but crunchy outside, a perfect bite-by-bite contrast. Pair with rice, black beans, and extra lime. It is simple, loud, and unforgettable.
8. Arroz con Pollo
Arroz con Pollo gathers everyone around the table. Chicken and rice cook together, soaking up saffron or annatto, sofrito, and stock. You will find peas and pimentos nestled through the grains, making each scoop colorful and comforting.
It is an easy one-pot wonder perfect for family nights. Squeeze a little lime to brighten the pot. Leftovers taste even better the next day.
9. Cuban Sandwich
The Cuban Sandwich is pure balance and crunch. Roast pork, ham, Swiss, pickles, and mustard get pressed on Cuban bread until the crust crackles. You will hear the sizzle as the cheese melts and everything fuses.
Each bite is tangy, savory, and perfectly proportioned. Grab one for lunch and you will dream about the next. It is iconic for good reason.
10. Pan con Lechón
Pan con Lechón tastes like a festival in a roll. Juicy roast pork, onions, and mojo pile into warm bread that soaks up every drop. You will get garlic, citrus, and tender meat in one glorious mouthful.
It is messy in the best possible way, so grab napkins. Perfect after midnight or any time craving strikes. Street food comfort at its finest.
11. Pan con Bistec
Pan con Bistec is a handheld feast. Thin steak gets marinated, seared, and layered with onions, lettuce, tomato, and crunchy potato sticks. You will love the textures, from soft bread to crisp fries inside.
A swipe of mayo or mustard keeps things juicy. It is portable, satisfying, and perfect for on-the-go lunches. Expect to crave another bite immediately.
12. Tostones
Tostones are crispy little moons of joy. Green plantains get fried, smashed, and fried again until crunchy outside and tender inside. You will sprinkle salt and dunk them into garlicky dips without stopping.
They pair with anything from roast meats to seafood. For extra flavor, drizzle mojo or sprinkle adobo. Keep a second batch ready because they vanish fast.
13. Maduros
Maduros deliver sweet, caramelized comfort. Ripe plantains fry until the edges turn sticky and golden. You will taste deep banana sweetness balanced by a little salty finish.
They are the perfect side for savory meats and rice. Add a sprinkle of cinnamon or a drizzle of crema if you are feeling playful. Every bite feels nostalgic and cozy.
14. Yuca con Mojo
Yuca con Mojo is starchy, tender, and wonderfully garlicky. Boiled cassava goes soft and creamy, then gets drenched in citrusy mojo with onions. You will scoop it up like potatoes, but with a silkier bite.
It is a classic side for pork, chicken, or fish. A little parsley adds freshness. Expect to fight for the last piece.
15. Croquetas
Croquetas are tiny cylinders of joy. A creamy béchamel loaded with minced ham gets breaded and fried until shatter-crisp. You will get a steamy, savory center that melts on the tongue.
They are perfect with coffee or as party snacks. Dip in a tangy sauce or squeeze lemon for brightness. Do not be surprised when the plate empties instantly.
16. Pastelitos (Guava and Cheese)
Pastelitos hit the sweet-savory bullseye. Flaky pastry hugs glossy guava paste and creamy cheese. You will bite through crisp layers and find that lush, fruity center waiting.
They shine at breakfast, coffee breaks, or late-night cravings. A light glaze and sesame seeds add sparkle and crunch. Share them warm and watch the smiles spread.
17. Cuban Flan
Cuban Flan is satin-smooth and soothing. Eggs, milk, and sugar become a delicate custard crowned with caramel. You will admire the wobble, then taste gentle sweetness and a whisper of vanilla.
It is simple to make yet feels celebratory. Chill it well so the caramel melts into sauce. Each spoonful feels like a calm exhale.
18. Arroz con Leche
Arroz con Leche is comfort by the spoonful. Rice simmers in milk with cinnamon, citrus peel, and sugar until creamy. You will get cozy aromas that make the whole kitchen feel like a hug.
Serve warm or chilled, with extra cinnamon on top. It is budget-friendly and endlessly nostalgic. Perfect for bedtime or any quiet moment.
19. Café Cubano (Cuban Espresso)
Café Cubano packs a tiny thunderbolt of flavor. Strong espresso meets whipped sugar to create espumita, that caramel-colored foam. You will sip sweetness, intensity, and a lingering roastiness.
It is perfect for morning jumpstarts or late-night chats. Share shots with friends and feel the energy ripple. Small cup, big personality indeed.
20. Batido (Cuban Milkshake)
Batidos taste like tropical sunshine. Blend milk, fruit, sugar, and ice for something frosty and uplifting. You will love mamey for its custardy sweetness, but mango, guava, and banana shine too.
These shakes are thick, friendly, and perfect with a sandwich. Add a pinch of vanilla or cinnamon for flair. Sip slowly and let island vibes take over.
