Cuban cuisine typically uses ingredients such as rice, beans, plantains, pork, beef, chicken, citrus fruits and a variety of spices like cumin, oregano, and bay leaves. These ingredients come together to create flavorful and hearty dishes.
A Guide to Traditional Dishes You'll Love
Key West Cuban Comfort Food
Get ready to dive into the vibrant world of Cuban cuisine! Each dish is a delicious blend of flavors and history, reflecting the cultural exchange, adaptation, and resilience of the Cuban people. Key West Cuban food brings these rich traditions to life with a unique local twist, making it a must-try for any food lover.
The Historical Significance of Cuban Dishes
Cuban food is a flavorful journey through history. Influenced by Spanish colonization, African traditions, and Caribbean neighbors, Cuban cuisine has evolved into something truly special. Classic dishes such as arroz con pollo, ropa vieja and picadillo tell the story of Cuba’s past and present.
African Influences in Cuban Cuisine
African slaves brought to Cuba during the colonial era introduced essential ingredients like plantains, okra, and various spices. These elements have become staples in Cuban cooking, especially in dishes like moros y cristianos (black beans and rice) and tostones (fried plantains).
Spanish-Caribbean Connection With Authentic Cuban Food
Spanish colonization brought ingredients such as rice, citrus, and different meats to Cuba, while Caribbean influences added tropical fruits and unique cooking techniques. This blend created beloved dishes like arroz con pollo and picadillo, showcasing a fusion of Spanish and Caribbean flavors.
Local Cooking Demonstrations at Our Studio
Immerse yourself in the flavors of the Florida Keys at Key West Cooking School! We offer daily cooking presentations, where you’ll watch our talented chefs prepare dishes inspired by local Cuban traditions and tropical flavors. Our morning and afternoon classes are perfect for visitors and locals alike, providing a fun and informative way to learn about Key West cuisine. Each class includes a delicious meal, featuring the dishes prepared in class, along with recipes to recreate them at home.
These cooking demonstrations not only showcase the best of Cuban food in Key West, but also offer tips and techniques that you can use to elevate your own cooking. Learn how to properly prepare different types of protein, discover secret seasoning combinations, and master the art of cooking Cuban dishes just like abuela!
Must-Try Cuban Delights in Key West
The Cuban Sandwich
You can’t visit Key West without trying a Cuban sandwich. It’s a tasty mix of ham, roasted pork, Swiss cheese, pickles and mustard, all pressed between slices of Cuban bread. Some local spots add their own twist, like fresh seafood or unique sauces, making it a delicious adventure in every bite. Key West Cuban food wouldn’t be complete without this iconic sandwich.
Frita Cubana
Think of the Frita Cubana as Cuba’s version of a hamburger. It’s made with a blend of ground beef and pork, seasoned with spices, and topped with crispy shoestring fries and a special sauce. Served on a Cuban roll, it’s a savory snack that’s perfect for enjoying on the go. This dish is a staple of Key West Cuban food.
Black Beans and Rice
This classic Cuban dish, also known as moros y cristianos, is simple yet packed with flavor. Black beans are cooked with onions, garlic and bell peppers, then mixed with rice. It’s a comforting, hearty meal that’s a staple in many Key West Cuban food establishments.
Ropa Vieja
Ropa vieja means “old clothes” in Spanish, but it’s actually a delicious shredded beef dish cooked with tomatoes, onions, peppers and spices. It’s a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s usually served with rice and plantains, capturing the essence of Cuban comfort food. You’ll find this dish on many Key West Cuban food menus.
Palomilla Steak
Palomilla steak is a thinly sliced, marinated and pan-fried beef steak, often served with onions, lime and rice. This dish is a Cuban favorite and represents the Spanish influence on Cuban cuisine. In Key West, you might find it paired with tropical fruit salsas or seafood sides for a local twist. It’s a highlight of Key West Cuban food.
Key West's Must-Try Cuban Drinks
Cuban Coffee - A Bold Awakening
Cuban coffee, or café Cubano, is a sweet, strong espresso that’s perfect for a quick energy boost. Made with dark roast coffee and sugar, it’s a bold and delicious way to start your day. You’ll find this authentic treat at many cafes around Key West, making it a key part of the Key West Cuban food experience.
Guava Mojito - A Tropical Twist
A guava mojito is a refreshing take on the classic mojito, adding the sweet and tangy flavor of guava. This cocktail combines rum, fresh lime juice, mint leaves and guava puree, making it a perfect drink for a hot day in Key West. It’s a popular choice to complement your Key West Cuban food adventure.
Cuba Libre - Rum and Lime Twist
The Cuba libre is a simple yet iconic Cuban cocktail made with rum, cola, and a squeeze of fresh lime. It has a rich history and remains a popular choice for those looking to enjoy a taste of Cuban culture. You can find this drink at many Key West bars, offering a refreshing complement to your meal. It’s a classic part of the Key West Cuban food scene.
Interesting Facts About Cuban Food
- Cuban cuisine reflects the island’s history, with influences from Spanish, African, and indigenous cultures.
- Dishes like ropa vieja originated from using leftover scraps to create hearty meals.
- The Cuban sandwich is a product of Cuban immigration to Florida, using readily available ingredients.
- Plantains, a staple in Cuban cuisine, were introduced by African slaves.
- The use of citrus marinades in dishes like mojo chicken reflects the Spanish influence on Cuban cooking.
Vibrant Array of Cuban Restaurants in Key West
El Meson de Pepe
A family-run Cuban restaurant injecting Old Town Key West with flavor for over 30 years. Nestled next to Mallory Square, the rustic setting comes alive with live salsa music on the patio, especially at sunset. Their menu features classic Cuban fare made with fresh ingredients. Beyond ropa vieja (shredded beef) and palomilla steak, you can savor savory picadillo (ground beef) and fresh seafood dishes like camarones al ajillo (garlic shrimp).
Ana's Cuban Cafe
A local gem that is known for its authentic Cuban food and laid-back vibe. Their menu features everything from hearty breakfast options to delicious dinner plates. Don’t miss their Cuban sandwich and freshly brewed Cuban coffee, both quintessential parts of Key West Cuban food.
Cuban Coffee Queen
A must-visit in Key West for a real taste of Cuba. Famous for its strong, flavorful Cuban coffee and mouthwatering sandwiches, this cafe is a perfect spot for a quick, delicious meal. Their café con leche and café Cubano are particularly popular, making it a staple in Key West Cuban food.
El Siboney
Offering a warm, homelike atmosphere with a menu full of authentic Cuban dishes. Known for its generous portions and friendly service, this restaurant is a great place to enjoy classics like ropa vieja, picadillo, and arroz con pollo. Their black beans and rice are a standout, capturing the essence of traditional Cuban food and enhancing the Key West Cuban food experience.
FAQs
Got questions? We've got answers.
Common spices in Cuban cooking include cumin, oregano, garlic, bay leaves and black pepper. These spices are often used in combination to create the rich, layered flavors characteristic of Cuban dishes.
Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan options in Cuban cuisine. Dishes like black beans and rice, yuca con mojo (cassava with garlic sauce), and tostones (fried plantains) can be enjoyed by those following a vegetarian or vegan diet.
To cook Cuban food at home, start by using fresh ingredients and traditional spices. Marinating meats in citrus juices and garlic can enhance the flavor, and slow-cooking stews and soups will help develop a rich, hearty taste. Don’t be afraid to experiment with spices and flavors to make the dishes your own.
