A Cuban woman shared on her TikTok account a custom that, as she confessed, she has not been able to leave behind even though she no longer lives on the island.
"Tell me, Cuban women, if you confirm this; I can't shake my habits," she commented in the video that has garnered dozens of reactions while showing how she stores meat in her freezer.
The young woman explained that, despite buying the packaged meat at the foreign supermarket, she cannot help but unpack it and divide it into small bags, and then organize them in her refrigerator.
The practice, very common in Cuban households, stems from the custom of rationing food to make it last throughout the week amidst the chronic shortages facing the island.
"It's something we have deeply rooted in us, and even though it's not necessary here anymore, I can't help but do it," remarked another Cuban in the post, resonating with many of her followers who admitted to doing the same.
In the comments, several users stated that they still have that “habit” from their time in Cuba, when storing food in an organized manner and in small portions was almost a survival strategy.
"I confirm, I also can't shake the habit haha," "What a relief, I'm not the only one in this country, just like the little cup in the bathroom haha," or "We left Cuba but Cuba doesn't leave us," are some of the comments that have been left for the Cuban in her post.
Cuban Customs in the Kitchen and Their Persistence Abroad
Why do some Cubans continue to divide meat into small portions even when living abroad?
The practice of dividing meat into small portions is deeply rooted in Cuban culture due to the chronic scarcity on the island. This custom persists as a food rationing strategy to make it last longer, even after emigrating to places where food abundance is the norm.
How do Cuban customs of scarcity influence the daily lives of emigrants?
Customs of scarcity, such as reusing plastic bags, rationing food, and maximizing the use of products, are carried by Cubans even when they emigrate. These practices are part of an emotional baggage that reflects both the need to save and the ingenuity to face daily challenges. Abroad, these customs persist as a connection to cultural roots and a way to ensure resource efficiency.
What role does humor play in the spread of these Cuban customs on social media?
Humor is a powerful tool that Cubans use to share their customs and daily experiences on platforms like TikTok. The sense of humor allows for a lighthearted approach to themes of scarcity and saving, facilitating connection and empathy among those who have lived similar situations. Furthermore, it helps to create a supportive community and recognition among Cubans and other Latin Americans who relate to these experiences.
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