Cuban content creator Karen Glln (@karen_glln) has captured attention on social media by sharing a recipe for fried dogfish fillets, prepared on a grill in her backyard due to a power outage.
The video has sparked debate on social media because many people claim they did not know that fish in Cuba and have never cooked it.
Karen's mother started by preparing a marinade with spices, in which she soaked the fillets. She then dipped them in beaten egg and bread crumbs before frying them in hot oil over a charcoal fire.
To complete the recipe, she sliced an onion into rings, sautéed it in the same pan, and added the adobo juice to create a sauce that she served over the already cooked fillets. The final result is a crispy and juicy dish made with simple ingredients.
The dogfish (Lachnolaimus maximus) is a species abundant in Cuban waters. Its white and flavorful flesh makes it an excellent choice for frying or baking.
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuban Cuisine and the Situation in Cuba
What is the dogfish and why is it relevant in Cuba?
The dogfish, scientifically known as Lachnolaimus maximus, is an abundant species in Cuban waters. Its white and flavorful flesh makes it an excellent choice for frying or grilling. The significance of this fish in Cuba lies in the fact that, despite being common in its waters, many people do not know it or do not cook it, as demonstrated in the video by Karen Glln, who prepared a recipe for fried dogfish fillets during a blackout.
How does the Cuban population cope with blackouts and the lack of resources for cooking?
Due to the lack of electricity, domestic gas, and coal, many Cubans turn to alternative methods such as cooking with firewood. Creativity and ingenuity are essential for surviving amid the energy crisis, as shown in several TikTok videos that document how to improvise kitchens and recipes. The reliance on coal and firewood has also raised environmental concerns due to the deforestation caused by charcoal production.
What role does artisanal fishing play in the nutrition of Cubans?
Artisanal fishing is a vital source of food and income for many Cuban communities, despite logistical and regulatory limitations. In Cuba, fishing is often carried out artisanally and without effective control mechanisms, reflecting the skill of the fishermen, but also the challenges faced by the sector. The Cuban Fishing Law imposes strict controls, which restrict the development of the fishing sector, leaving the population with limited access to seafood products.
How does the energy crisis affect daily life in Cuba?
The energy crisis in Cuba is primarily manifested in widespread daily blackouts and shortages of liquefied gas and coal. This forces millions of Cubans to improvise in order to meet basic needs such as food. Many are compelled to cook with firewood or find alternative cooking methods when the power goes out. The situation has raised concerns both for the environmental impact and for the living conditions of the population.
Filed under: