A Cuban woman has created a buzz on TikTok by sharing with her followers how she prepares catfish fillets and a pot of red beans, two traditional dishes that showcase culinary creativity on the island.
The video, posted on the account @yuyudecuba, showcases the step-by-step process and has garnered hundreds of comments from users reminiscing about the flavors of Cuban cuisine.
In the video, the creator begins by cleaning and marinating the catfish fillets, a type of fish that has become an economical and accessible option in Cuba.
With a touch of Creole seasoning, the Cuban adds spices, garlic, and lemon to enhance the flavor before grilling them. "The catfish may not be a delicacy, but with good seasoning, it turns into something delicious," she says playfully while showing off the fillets browning in the pan.
On the other hand, she also explains how she prepares a pot of red beans, a dish she defines as “a classic of Cuban households.” Using basic ingredients such as onion, peppers, garlic, and a bit of bacon, she creates a dish filled with flavor and tradition. “This is what nourishes and satisfies,” she says proudly while serving the stew alongside catfish fillets and a portion of white rice.
The video has elicited nostalgic reactions among its followers, many of whom praise the ability to transform simple ingredients into a flavorful feast. “Delicious! This reminds me of my childhood in Cuba,” wrote one user. Another added, “With little you can do a lot when there’s seasoning and love.”
The publication not only highlights Cuban cuisine but also the creativity and effort that many families on the island put into their daily meals, adapting to limitations with ingenuity and passion.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuban Cuisine and Culinary Creativity in Cuba
What is claria and why is it used in Cuba?
The claria is a type of fish that has become an affordable and accessible option in Cuba, especially due to the scarcity of other types of food. Its flavor can be enhanced with spices and seasonings, as showcased in the viral TikTok video where a Cuban shared her recipe for marinated claria fillets grilled to perfection.
How is the Cuban-style red bean stew prepared?
The red bean stew is a traditional Cuban dish made with basic ingredients such as onion, peppers, garlic, and bacon. This dish is considered a classic in Cuban households due to its flavor and ability to nourish. The recipe shared on TikTok demonstrated how these ingredients come together to create a stew rich in flavor and tradition.
What role does creativity play in contemporary Cuban cuisine?
Creativity is essential in contemporary Cuban cuisine, especially due to resource limitations and food shortages. Cubans have learned to transform simple ingredients into flavorful dishes and to use clever alternatives to compensate for the lack of products. This is reflected in the popularity of TikTok videos showcasing recipes adapted to the island's circumstances.
How does nostalgia influence the cuisine of Cubans abroad?
For Cubans abroad, cooking is a way to keep their connection to the island's culture and traditions alive. Preparing traditional Cuban dishes, such as bean pot and plantain fufú, evokes memories of childhood and moments shared with family. Nostalgia is reflected in the joy of finding typical Cuban ingredients or products in other countries.
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