"The fat that comes off the chicken skin, I do eat it": Cuban shows what she eats in a day and sparks debate

The content creator known as Yuyudecuba shared a video on TikTok showcasing what she consumed in a day in Cuba, which sparked thousands of reactions and a broad debate among her followers. In the recording, the influencer detailed her eating routine and responded to criticisms about the choices she makes while cooking.

In the video, @yuyudecuba begins her day with a coffee, something she describes as "common in the house," and prepares toast accompanied by cheese croquettes purchased from a street vendor who roams her neighborhood on a scooter. At noon, the influencer explains that she didn't have lunch because she woke up late, but she cooked a pea stew that she saved for dinner. During the evening, she completed the meal with chicken in sauce, white rice, and ripe plantains. "I know many people don't like to use the chicken skin, but I do, because the fat it releases adds flavor, and we like it that way here at home," she commented while showing the finished dish.

The video generated an avalanche of comments. Some users praised her lifestyle and her honesty in sharing her daily routine. One follower commented: "I'm from Camagüey, born and raised, and my grandmother, who raised me, always adds pumpkin and malanga to the red beans," highlighting how their culinary customs align with those of the influencer. Another noted: "Everyone cooks as they wish and with what they have. The important thing is to be grateful for what you eat and keep moving forward."

However, others criticized its content, arguing that it does not reflect the reality faced by many Cubans. One user stated, "That's not true, we're experiencing a lot of hardship in Cuba, and food is scarce and very expensive," while another added, "What world does this woman live in? There is no garlic or onion, let alone everything she mentions. The reality is different."

Additionally, some took the opportunity to reflect on the cultural differences in cooking. A user from the Dominican Republic shared, "In my country, beans are cooked with auyama, and everyone uses what they have," while another user from Puerto Rico commented, "Here, we also add calabaza, but to give that little yellow color that we love so much."

Among the supportive messages, one user wrote: "You are a warrior. The important thing is that your family eats. Don't let negative comments affect you," while another stated: "Sir, in Cuba, we cook with what we have, so don't criticize. Every chef has their own style." However, the criticisms continued: "That's not true. There are many families that can't even buy the basics," pointed out a follower.

The video from the creator not only sparked a discussion about recipes but also served as a reflection of the realities and inequalities faced by Cuban families. One user pondered: "One must be creative to survive in Cuba. You cook with what you can, not with what you want," while another pointed out: "Every culture has its way of cooking, but in Cuba it's about adapting and making do with what is available."

Days after this and other videos, Yuyudecuba posted a response to a comment questioning his view of Cuban reality, stating: "I don't know if you are Cuban or not, but in Cuba, there is everything, my dear. There is garlic and onion, there are chili peppers, there is whatever you want, but you have to find money." This message sparked a new wave of opinions, further dividing his followers.

Despite the criticism, some followers appreciated Yuyudecuba's authenticity. One user commented, "People criticize too much. Keep sharing your recipes; you inspire many," while another added, "I also throw in pumpkin, malanga, and whatever I have at home. We need to adapt and be creative."

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