Cibercuba Cocina
Garapiña with ice and pieces of pineapple | Photo © Cibercuba Cocina

Garapiña

Kitchen, Appetizer

Kitchen, Appetizer

Fruits
Preparation Time:
40 min
Note:
There are two ways to make Garapiña in Cuba. One is obtained by boiling the peels of this fruit, and the other is through a fermentation process. Here we leave you both versions. I always use the first one because I find it quick, less risky, and healthier.
Ingredients:
  • 1 pineapple (we will only use the peels)
  • 1 ½ liters of water
  • sugar to taste
  • ice
Instructions:

Wash the pineapple and peel it. Discard the crown and preserve the inside of the fruit for other recipes or to eat fresh, sliced. For the Garapiña, we will only use the peels and the core of the pineapple in case you wish to take advantage of it.

Peeled pineapple / CiberCuba Kitchen

In a pot, put one and a half liters of water and the pineapple peels. Add sugar to taste. Let it boil over medium heat for 30 minutes. Remove it and let it cool. Strain this liquid through a fine sieve and discard the boiled peels. We suggest serving the garapiña with ice cubes to make it even more refreshing.

Cooking the pineapple / CiberCuba Kitchen

There is a second recipe for Garapiña that is obtained through a fermentation process. It uses the same ingredients and is made as follows: Place the peels of a well-washed pineapple in a glass jar. Fill the container with water until the peels are covered and let it rest. Cover it with a fine cloth to prevent insects from getting in while allowing air to enter. Let it ferment for two days until you start to perceive acidity, but do not let it become too acidic so it doesn’t turn into vinegar. Strain it and serve it cold with sugar to taste.

Garapiña with ice / CiberCuba Kitchen

Rations:
4
Fruits