Chef Dailis Ferrer, originally from Guantánamo and now residing in Spain, recently shared a traditional Cuban menu she prepared for her family over the weekend. The video she posted stirred feelings of nostalgia among her followers, both in and out of the island.
Dailis mentioned she was craving "a good Cuban meal like in the old days" and decided to treat her husband and son. She prepared a mouthwatering spread that included yuca with mojo as a side dish, arroz moro with black beans softened in a pressure cooker, and an avocado salad.
The star of the table was a large piece of roasted pork with crispy skin, a quintessential Cuban dish that was finger-licking good. For dessert, she made a nostalgic Cuban treat that will have any Cuban expatriate rushing to the market for condensed milk: Fanguito with sweet cookies.
Dailis' video has garnered thousands of interactions. Most comments are from people expressing their longing for Cuban food and the communal experience of sharing it with family, something that many can't do because they are scattered across the globe, often alone. Those still in Cuba find it increasingly difficult to enjoy such meals due to the high cost of ingredients.
Enjoying a traditional Cuban meal with family is becoming a rare luxury on the island, and after decades of economic hardship, many recipes risk being forgotten. One follower urged Dailis to keep cooking Cuban food, saying, "We can't lose our roots."
Frequently Asked Questions about Cuban Cuisine and Nostalgia
This section addresses common questions surrounding the preparation of traditional Cuban dishes and the feelings of nostalgia they evoke, especially for those living outside Cuba.
What traditional dishes did Dailis Ferrer prepare?
Dailis Ferrer prepared yuca with mojo, arroz moro with black beans, avocado salad, roasted pork with crispy skin, and Fanguito with sweet cookies for dessert.
Why did Dailis Ferrer's video evoke such nostalgia?
The video stirred nostalgia because it reminded viewers of traditional Cuban meals and the communal experience of sharing them with family, something that is increasingly difficult both for expatriates and those still in Cuba due to economic hardships.
Why is it challenging to enjoy traditional Cuban meals in Cuba today?
Many traditional ingredients are expensive and hard to find in Cuba today, making it difficult for families to prepare and enjoy these meals. Economic difficulties over decades have also led to the risk of many traditional recipes being forgotten.