A viral video from the profile of TikTok Cubansalvifamily (@cubansalvi503family) showed how a young woman from Cuba, living abroad, prepares a "Cuban snack" for her Salvadoran husband.
The culinary proposal left no one indifferent. It features a very simple menu: bread with oil and raw garlic, accompanied by a glass of water with brown sugar.
This combination is not a traditional recipe, but an emergency meal born out of scarcity. What in other contexts might seem like a culinary eccentricity is actually a scene that reveals a harsh reality of the island.
Many Cubans grew up eating this when there was nothing else. And what is even more serious is that today, in the midst of an economic crisis, even this Cuban snack is not possible for many families.
Bread, garlic, oil, and sugar have become luxury products in Cuba. In the video, the Salvadoran reacts with laughter but does not fail to point out the obvious: There are two whole cloves of garlic in the bread, and a drink overloaded with three tablespoons of sugar.
The video evokes a variety of reactions ranging from laughter to nostalgia, and in some cases, sadness. Among the hundreds of comments, one captures the mix of emotions well.
“It made me sad to see this snack, but sometimes I also prepare it here in the United States because, although humble, it reminds me of my childhood in Cuba,” said an internet user.
Frequently asked questions about the current situation in Cuba and the "Cuban snack"
What is the "Cuban merienda" mentioned in the viral video?
The "Cuban snack" featured in the viral video consists of bread with oil and raw garlic, accompanied by a glass of water with brown sugar. This combination is not a traditional recipe, but rather an emergency meal that emerged from the scarcity in Cuba. It reflects the critical situation on the island, where even these basic foods have become luxury items.
Why has the video of the "Cuban snack" generated so many reactions?
The video has generated many reactions because it represents a part of the reality that many Cuban families face daily. The blend of emotions it evokes, from laughter to sadness and nostalgia, reflects the difficult situation in Cuba, where the economic crisis has made even a meal as humble as this unattainable for many.
What is the current situation regarding food scarcity in Cuba?
The food shortage situation in Cuba is critical. Basic products such as bread, garlic, oil, and sugar have become luxury items due to the economic crisis. This scarcity affects not only nutrition but also the quality of life for Cubans, who have to deal with high prices and a limited supply of essential goods.
How does the energy crisis affect daily life in Cuba?
The energy crisis in Cuba seriously affects the daily life of the population. Prolonged blackouts force families to seek alternatives for cooking and preserving food, complicating basic household tasks. The lack of electricity also impacts access to essential services such as water and refrigeration, causing widespread discomfort among citizens.
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