In Cuba, starting a charcoal stove is not a nostalgic glimpse into the past nor just a rural curiosity. For countless families, it is the sole option amid the ongoing fuel crisis, particularly the scarcity of gas. This reality is captured by TikTok user @sheyreyes03, who documented in a video how people are cooking on the island today. What began as a practical guide quickly evolved into a poignant portrayal of the everyday challenges faced by thousands of Cuban households.
Sheyla kicks off the video by showing a small zinc sheet placed over the stove to prevent the rice from burning. As she films, she adds charcoal to the burner, ready to ignite it with a mix of kerosene and gasoline. "Kerosene is extremely expensive, priced at 350 pesos per liter, and gasoline, as you know, is 400 pesos. We use these two to light it properly; some people resort to paper or banana leaves because they lack kerosene or gasoline. So, they have to get creative to light the charcoal because this is what most Cubans are using to cook," she highlighted.
The post sparked a flood of reactions, ranging from sadness and concern to empathy. One user commented, "And soon, there won't be any charcoal left... because that's just how it is in Cuba. It's heartbreaking." Others shared cost-effective alternatives, like using oil instead of fuels, warning that kerosene or gasoline "might alter the taste of the food."
Creativity abounds. One follower suggested using a simple candle, noting that "it lights up faster if there's no gasoline, which helps a lot." Meanwhile, another voice raised an environmental concern: "They will destroy forests and trees to make charcoal, which I don't think is right. Are there any controls over those who produce charcoal?"
"By the way, food cooked over charcoal has a delightful taste," remarked another user, offering a small consolation amid the harsh circumstances.
This video does not depict a cooking technique but rather the daily battle for something as fundamental as feeding oneself. On an island where gas is scarce and prices soar, cooking has become an act of survival, and lighting charcoal is merely the first step in a routine that demands ingenuity, sacrifice, and resilience.
The increasing reliance on charcoal has led to a surge in its demand and, consequently, its cost. In provinces like Holguín, a sack of charcoal reached up to 1,400 pesos by February 2025, becoming a luxury for many families who need it to cook amid frequent power outages.
The lack of electricity and liquefied gas has forced some individuals to set up makeshift stoves in their yards, using wood and charcoal, posing health and safety risks. The rise in the use of charcoal and wood also raises environmental concerns. Cutting down trees for charcoal production can lead to deforestation and other ecological issues. Moreover, burning these materials contributes to air pollution, impacting public health.
Common Questions About Charcoal Use in Cuba
Why are Cuban families relying on charcoal for cooking?
Due to a severe fuel crisis and scarcity of gas, many Cuban families have no choice but to resort to charcoal as their primary means of cooking.
What are the environmental impacts of using charcoal in Cuba?
The use of charcoal can lead to deforestation and ecological damage due to tree cutting for production. Additionally, burning charcoal contributes to air pollution, affecting health.
Are there any safety concerns with using makeshift stoves?
Yes, using makeshift stoves with wood and charcoal can pose health and safety risks, including potential fire hazards and exposure to harmful smoke.