Certain Cuban food preferences can seem unfathomable to people from other countries. Imagine what happens in the daily life of a Venezuelan and a Cuban living together. This man, for instance, cannot understand why his wife enjoys bread with tomato, salt, oil, and nothing else.
"Can you believe my Cuban wife prefers a toasted bread with tomato, olive oil, and salt?" he questions in a video shared on his TikTok account. In the background, you can hear his wife exclaiming, "It's glorious, you don't know what life is."
"How can that be glorious? Put some ham and cheese on it," he retorts.
"Don't mess with the bread with tomato; it saved us from hunger," she replies, recalling her days in Cuba when tomato bread was a lifesaver.
A Culinary Clash at Home
Despite the Venezuelan's initial reluctance towards the tomato bread, his Cuban wife eventually convinces him to eat it as a "breakfast or snack," albeit with a bit of mold to make it feel more authentically Cuban, according to her.
However, this Venezuelan is not easily swayed when it comes to food and insists on adding some arepitas to the Cuban ajiaco his wife prepares.
Understanding Cultural Food Differences
Here are some common questions and answers about the cultural food differences highlighted in the article.
Why do some Cubans enjoy bread with tomato?
Bread with tomato, olive oil, and salt is a simple yet popular dish in Cuban culture, often enjoyed for its flavor and historical significance, especially during times of scarcity.
What is ajiaco?
Ajiaco is a traditional Cuban stew made with various meats, vegetables, and tubers, representing a rich blend of flavors and cultural heritage.
What are arepitas?
Arepitas are small, round corn cakes typical in Venezuelan cuisine, often used to complement various dishes.