The Cuban content creator Albarina Martínez, known on Instagram as @albarinam, has shared a humorous video filled with local flavor where she explains how a dinner with friends can turn into a culinary... and health dilemma.
In the video, Albarina discusses with her partner the preparations to welcome two couples from their generation to their home. She had meticulously organized everything: a roasted pork leg, fried plantains, wine, and a few delicacies made with all the love in the world.
While she was chatting with her husband, she began to dismiss one after another the dishes from the menu, as the eating habits of the guests have changed over the years. The surprise is that now all her friends have medical restrictions.
Among diets to control cholesterol, sugar, and triglycerides, the traditional Cuban menu was practically sidelined. No pork, tostones, wine, or especially those gourmet treats she had prepared with enthusiasm.
Albarina decided to rethink the dinner. She agreed with her husband that the most sensible option was to make a chicken soup and offer a chamomile tea, “so that everyone leaves the dinner well-nourished and healthy.”
However, the Cuban made it clear that the food would not be wasted. "Save all the delicacies because we will eat them just the two of us, and if we die... we die happy!"
The video has resonated with many people who see themselves reflected in the scene, not only because they understand sharing food with friends as a fun activity but also due to the experience of navigating adult diets, and that distinctly Cuban way of laughing at the everyday without losing flavor... or their good appetite.
Frequently asked questions about food in Cuba and shared experiences on social media
Why did Albarina Martínez decide to change the menu for her dinner with friends?
Albarina Martínez changed the menu for her dinner due to the medical restrictions of her guests, who now have diets to control cholesterol, sugar, and triglycerides. For this reason, she chose to prepare chicken soup and offer chamomile tea instead of the traditional Cuban menu she had originally planned.
What does Albarina's video reflect about the food situation in Cuba?
The video by Albarina Martínez reflects how food and health restrictions influence social gatherings in Cuba, while also highlighting the ability of Cubans to adapt and find humor in complicated everyday situations. Through criollo humor, Albarina illustrates how life on the island is shaped by changes in eating habits and the limitations that arise due to health issues.
How does Albarina's experience compare to that of other Cuban content creators?
Albarina Martínez's experience is compared to other creators like Melanye Sánchez and Jaila Thalía, who also share on social media the realities of daily life in Cuba. Melanye showcases her daily eating routine, highlighting improvisation and scarcity, while Jaila demonstrates how she creatively resolves unexpected situations. Both experiences reflect the resilience and ingenuity needed to face food challenges on the island.
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