30 Vibrant Cuban Dishes You Can’t Miss

Cuban cuisine is a vibrant fusion of flavors, bringing the island’s culinary traditions straight to your kitchen with these 30 recipes. From savory ropa vieja to tangy mojo chicken and indulgent tres leches cake, this collection captures the essence of Cuban cooking.

Featuring fresh ingredients, bold spices, and tropical influences, these dishes offer something for every taste. Cuban food is known for perfectly balancing sweet, salty, and tangy flavors, creating meals that are as exciting as they are satisfying.

Whether for weeknight dinners or festive gatherings, these recipes bring a little piece of Havana to your table. Add a touch of Caribbean charm to your cooking and experience the vibrant flavors of Cuba.

Ropa Vieja (Cuban National Dish)

Ropa Vieja, Cuba’s national dish, is a flavorful and satisfying stew made with slow-cooked beef in a tomato-wine sauce. Tender and shredded, the beef soaks up the vibrant flavors of the sauce, which is rich with aromatic spices and herbs.

Every bite offers a savory experience that brings together the heart of Cuban cuisine. This dish is perfect for family dinners or when you want to impress guests with a taste of authentic Cuba.

Pair it with rice or a crusty bread, and it becomes a complete, comforting meal.

Cuban Mojo Pork

Cuban mojo pork combines tender, slow-cooked pork with a tangy and zesty marinade made from citrus, garlic, and herbs. The result is a dish that’s both rich and refreshing, bursting with bright flavors.

Mojo pork is simple to prepare yet incredibly satisfying, offering a taste of Cuban tradition in every bite. Whether served with rice or wrapped in tortillas, the pork remains juicy and flavorful, perfect for any occasion.

It’s a dish that brings the warmth and essence of Cuban cooking to your table.

Vaca Frita (Crispy Beef)

Vaca Frita, or crispy beef, takes slow-cooked flank steak and fries it to crispy perfection. Once the beef is shredded and tenderized, it’s sautéed with garlic, lime, and spices, creating a deliciously crunchy and flavorful dish.

This Cuban specialty is perfect for a casual dinner, served with rice or in tacos. The crispiness of the beef contrasts beautifully with its rich, garlicky flavor.

It’s a comforting dish that combines texture and taste in every bite.

Cuban Mojo Marinade

Cuban mojo marinade is an essential ingredient for many Cuban dishes. This simple yet flavorful combination of citrus, garlic, and spices can be used to marinate pork, chicken, or beef.

The tanginess from the citrus, paired with the richness of garlic, creates a complex and aromatic flavor profile. It’s incredibly easy to make and adds a punch of flavor to any meat.

Once you try it, you’ll never look at store-bought marinades the same way again.

Bistec Encebollado (Steak and Onions)

Bistec Encebollado, a Cuban classic, brings together perfectly seasoned steak with sweet, caramelized onions. The beef is tender, juicy, and full of flavor, while the onions provide a touch of sweetness that complements the savory steak.

This dish is an explosion of Cuban flavor and is perfect for a satisfying meal. It’s simple to make, yet packed with so much taste, making it a go-to choice for any occasion.

Enjoy it with rice or beans to complete this savory Cuban delight.

Fricase de Pollo (Cuban Chicken Fricassee)

Fricase de Pollo, or Cuban chicken fricassee, is a slow-cooked dish where chicken and potatoes simmer in a rich tomato sauce. The tender chicken absorbs all the flavors of the sauce, making each bite comforting and flavorful.

It’s a beloved Cuban dish that combines the earthiness of potatoes with the savory richness of chicken. Paired with rice or bread, this dish makes for a hearty and filling meal.

It’s an excellent choice for family dinners or when you want something truly satisfying.

Carne con Papas (Cuban Beef Stew)

Carne con Papas, a Cuban beef stew, is a soul-warming dish made with tender beef chunks and potatoes, simmered in a rich tomato-based sauce. The flavors are deep and savory, with hints of garlic, onions, and spices, making it a perfect comfort food for chilly days.

The beef becomes incredibly tender, absorbing all the flavors of the sauce as it cooks. Served with rice, it creates a hearty and filling meal.

It’s a satisfying dish that will quickly become a family favorite for its warmth and delicious taste.

Frituras de Malanga (Malanga Fritters)

Frituras de Malanga, or malanga fritters, are crispy, golden bites made from the starchy root vegetable malanga. Mixed with eggs, garlic, and spices, these fritters have a crunchy exterior and soft, flavorful inside.

They’re perfect for snacking or as a side dish to complement a meal. These fritters are a great way to use malanga, a root vegetable that has a mild flavor and smooth texture.

They’re easy to prepare and make for a delightful addition to any meal or party.

Papas Rellenas (Stuffed Potatoes)

Papas Rellenas, or stuffed potatoes, are a Cuban favorite. These mashed potato balls are stuffed with a savory picadillo filling, then breaded and fried to golden perfection.

They’re crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them the perfect bite-sized treat. These stuffed potatoes are great as appetizers or snacks, perfect for any party or casual gathering.

The combination of the creamy potatoes and flavorful filling makes them a truly irresistible dish.

Pollo a la Plancha (Grilled Chicken)

Pollo a la Plancha, or grilled chicken, is a Cuban classic that’s simple yet packed with flavor. Thin chicken breasts are marinated in a citrusy, garlicky mojo marinade and then seared to golden perfection.

The result is juicy, flavorful chicken that pairs beautifully with rice, beans, or plantains. It’s a quick and easy dish that brings the taste of Cuban street food into your home.

This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or when you crave something light and satisfying.

Citrus and Mojo Grilled Chicken Skewers

Citrus and mojo grilled chicken skewers bring the bold, zesty flavors of Cuban cuisine to your table with the use of a citrusy mojo marinade. The chicken is tender and flavorful, cooked on skewers for easy grilling or pan-frying.

The bright citrus flavor from the marinade pairs wonderfully with the savory grilled chicken. This dish is perfect for summer barbecues or any time you crave a light yet flavorful meal.

It’s quick to prepare and will leave you wanting more with every bite.

Cuban Sandwich

A Cuban sandwich is a true handheld treasure, featuring layers of Swiss cheese, ham, roast pork, pickles, and mustard, all pressed between soft Cuban bread. The result is a crispy, golden sandwich that packs a punch of flavor in every bite.

The combination of savory meats and tangy pickles makes it a favorite in Cuban cuisine. The sandwich is easy to make but looks and tastes like something from a deli, perfect for lunch or dinner.

Whether enjoyed at home or served at a gathering, the Cuban sandwich brings the authentic flavors of Cuba straight to your table.

Cuban Frita Burger

Cuban Frita Burgers are a delicious twist on the classic burger, featuring a mixture of seasoned pork and beef patties topped with shoestring fries and smoky ketchup. The combination of savory meat and crispy fries packed into a toasted bun is a Cuban street food favorite.

The seasoning gives the burger an extra layer of flavor, making it unlike any burger you’ve ever had. It’s the perfect handheld meal for a casual lunch or dinner, full of flavor and satisfying textures.

A must-try for anyone looking for a Cuban twist on a classic dish.

Cuban Picadillo (Ground Beef Hash)

Cuban Picadillo is a flavorful ground beef hash that’s packed with a unique combination of savory and sweet ingredients. The beef is cooked with olives, potatoes, raisins, and a blend of spices, creating a hearty, flavorful dish.

This comforting meal can be served with rice or enjoyed as a standalone dish. The balance of sweet and savory makes Picadillo a Cuban classic that’s loved by all.

It’s an easy, satisfying dish that you’ll find yourself craving often.

Cuban Grilled Salmon with Tomato Avocado Salsa

Cuban grilled salmon with tomato avocado salsa is a dish that combines perfectly seasoned grilled salmon with fresh and flavorful salsa. The richness of the salmon is balanced by the bright, creamy avocado and the juicy, tangy tomatoes.

This dish is light yet satisfying, making it a perfect meal for warm weather or a fresh twist on dinner. The salsa adds a refreshing note that complements the smoky salmon perfectly.

It’s a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy Cuban-inspired seafood.

Rabo Encendido (Cuban Oxtail Stew)

Rabo Encendido, or Cuban oxtail stew, is a hearty dish that brings rich flavors from slow-cooked oxtail in a tomato-wine sauce, seasoned with aromatic herbs and spices. The meat becomes melt-in-your-mouth tender after simmering for hours, soaking up all the delicious flavors from the broth.

This Cuban comfort food is perfect for family gatherings or special occasions, offering both deep flavors and a satisfying meal. Pairing it with rice makes it even more comforting, creating a complete and hearty meal that everyone will enjoy.

The slow-cooked oxtail ensures every bite is flavorful and tender.

Pan con Bistec (Steak Sandwich)

Pan con Bistec is a Cuban steak sandwich that features juicy, pan-seared steaks topped with sautéed onions and packed into a soft Cuban roll. The steak is marinated to enhance its flavor, resulting in a savory and tender filling.

The caramelized onions add a touch of sweetness, making each bite a delightful combination of textures and flavors. This Cuban classic is quick to make, making it perfect for a delicious lunch or dinner.

The sandwich is hearty and full of bold flavors, making it a must-try for anyone who loves Cuban cuisine.

Cuban Black Beans

Cuban black beans are a staple of Cuban cuisine, loved for their savory flavor and versatility. The beans are slow-cooked with onions, garlic, and spices, creating a rich, aromatic dish that complements any meal.

Often served with rice, these beans bring a depth of flavor that makes them the perfect side dish. You can enjoy them with any protein, or simply as a satisfying vegetarian option.

The combination of tender beans and spices is sure to become a regular part of your culinary rotation.

Cuban Beef Empanadas

Cuban beef empanadas are savory pastries filled with a flavorful mixture of beef, onions, and spices. The beef is cooked to perfection, and the empanadas are then fried until golden and crispy.

They make a great snack, appetizer, or meal, and are perfect for any gathering. The filling is rich and savory, and the crispy exterior provides the perfect contrast.

These empanadas are a must-try for anyone who loves Cuban food or handheld snacks.

Potaje de Garbanzo (Cuban Chickpea Stew)

Potaje de Garbanzo, a Cuban chickpea stew, is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines chickpeas, squash, potatoes, and chard, with a smoky chorizo base. The slow-cooked ingredients meld together to create a rich, comforting stew that’s perfect for a chilly evening.

The earthy chickpeas pair beautifully with the sweetness of the squash and the savory chorizo. This dish offers a balance of flavors that will fill you up while leaving you craving more.

It’s an excellent choice for those looking to enjoy Cuban food with a satisfying vegetarian twist.

Croquetas de Jamon (Cuban Ham Croquettes)

Croquetas de Jamon, Cuban ham croquettes, are crispy on the outside and filled with a creamy, savory ham mixture on the inside. These bite-sized treats are perfect as appetizers or snacks and are packed with flavor from the ham, spices, and a touch of béchamel.

The crispy coating gives a satisfying crunch, while the inside is soft and indulgent. Easy to prepare, these croquettes are perfect for parties or casual gatherings.

They’ll quickly become a favorite snack that everyone will love.

Mojito

The mojito is a refreshing Cuban cocktail that combines rum, lime, mint, sugar, and soda water. It’s a light and refreshing drink with the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.

The mint adds a fresh herbal note, while the lime and rum give it a tangy kick. The mojito is a great choice for hot days or when you want something light and flavorful.

It’s a staple in Cuban culture and a perfect addition to any gathering or casual get-together.

Cuban Roast Pork (Lechon Asado)

Cuban roast pork, or Lechon Asado, is marinated with a flavorful citrusy mojo sauce and slow-roasted to perfection. The pork becomes tender and juicy, with a crispy, flavorful crust that adds texture to every bite.

This dish is perfect for celebrations, family meals, or when you want to enjoy the tastes of Cuban cuisine at home. The combination of garlic, citrus, and herbs infuses the pork, making it irresistibly delicious.

Serve it with rice and beans to complete the ultimate Cuban feast.

Imperial Rice

Imperial rice is a Cuban-inspired casserole that combines savory chicken, rice, and flavorful seasonings into one cohesive and delicious dish. The layers of rice and chicken soak up the rich flavors from the spices and a creamy sauce, creating a comforting and hearty meal.

The addition of vegetables like peas and carrots adds a pop of color and freshness. This dish is a crowd-pleaser, perfect for family meals or holiday gatherings.

It’s easy to prepare and full of flavors, making it a great option when you need something filling and satisfying.

Cuban Creole Shrimp (Enchilado de Camarones)

Cuban Creole shrimp, or Enchilado de Camarones, is a dish full of bold flavors. The shrimp are cooked in a rich tomato-based sauce with garlic, onions, and a touch of spice.

This dish is quick to make but packed with so much flavor that it will leave a lasting impression. Serve it with rice or bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.

Cuban Creole shrimp is perfect for any seafood lover looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Cuban Arroz Con Leche (Rice Pudding)

Cuban arroz con leche is a creamy rice pudding that combines sweet rice with flavors of cinnamon, lime zest, and anise. The rich and smooth pudding is comforting and perfect for any meal as a dessert.

The hints of cinnamon and lime elevate the dish, giving it a unique Cuban flavor. Arroz con leche is a simple, yet satisfying treat that’s perfect for ending any Cuban meal.

It’s easy to make and sure to please anyone who enjoys a classic, creamy dessert.

Chicharron de Pollo (Cuban Fried Chicken Chunks)

Chicharron de Pollo, or Cuban fried chicken chunks, are crispy and golden on the outside, while tender and juicy on the inside. Marinated in a flavorful mixture, the chicken is coated in flour and fried to crispy perfection.

The crunchy exterior gives way to succulent chicken that’s bursting with flavor. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy meal or as an appetizer for gatherings.

It’s a fun and delicious way to enjoy chicken, with a Cuban touch that makes it truly special.

Tostones (Fried Green Plantains)

Tostones, or fried green plantains, are a beloved Cuban snack that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They’re twice fried to achieve the perfect crunch and are usually served with a dipping sauce, making them a perfect appetizer or side dish.

The plantains add a subtle sweetness that balances beautifully with their crispy texture. You can serve them alongside your favorite Cuban meal or as a snack for any gathering.

This dish brings the flavors of the Caribbean right to your plate.

Cuban Style Steak and Avocado Rice

Cuban style steak with avocado rice is a dish that brings together perfectly seared steak with a refreshing and zesty pineapple chimichurri. The combination of juicy steak and tangy avocado rice creates a satisfying and flavorful meal.

The citrusy notes from the chimichurri complement the richness of the steak, while the avocado rice adds a smooth, creamy texture that enhances every bite. This dish is ideal for a weekend dinner or any time you crave something hearty yet refreshing.

It’s a unique take on Cuban flavors, perfect for those who enjoy bold and delicious meals.

Cuban Arroz Con Pollo (Rice with Chicken)

Cuban Arroz Con Pollo is a one-pot dish that combines rice, chicken, and a medley of flavorful spices. The chicken is cooked alongside the rice, allowing all the flavors to meld together, resulting in a savory, comforting dish.

This hearty meal is perfect for family gatherings or when you’re craving something truly satisfying. The spices and ingredients come together to create a balanced and flavorful dish that everyone will love.

It’s the ultimate Latin comfort food that will make your taste buds sing.