7 Cuban Dishes That Try Too Hard and 5 Flavor-Packed Meals You’ll Crave Again

This article explores the fascinating world of Cuban cuisine by highlighting seven dishes that push the boundaries a bit too far, alongside five traditional meals that perfectly capture the essence of Cuban flavors. The fusion attempts in some dishes may leave you puzzled, while the classics will ensure you savor every bite.

1. Overstuffed Cubano Fusion Sandwiches

Picture a classic Cubano, but now add layers of pulled pork, crispy bacon, creamy avocado, and a drizzle of fiery sriracha. It’s no longer a simple Cuban sandwich. Some might call this innovation, but it’s more like a culinary identity crisis. The sandwich becomes a jumble of flavors, where each ingredient fights for attention rather than harmonizing. The essence of a traditional Cubano lies in its simplicity, where ham and cheese meld with pickles and mustard to create a perfect, balanced bite. When too much is added, the original charm is lost. Transformative? Maybe. True to its roots? Not quite.

2. Plantain Everything Bowls

Imagine a bowl where plantains take the spotlight, but in every form possible—chips, mash, fritters, and even as a base. While plantains are a beloved staple, this dish tries to do it all at once. It becomes an overwhelming experience, rather than a celebration of a single ingredient. Each form of plantain brings its own texture and taste, but together, they compete rather than complement. Simplicity often holds the key in culinary arts. A single, well-prepared plantain dish can shine, but this bowl feels like it’s trying too hard to be something extraordinary. Variety isn’t always the spice of life.

3. Coconut Mango Mojo Chicken

The allure of coconut and mango might sound tempting, but it overshadows the traditional mojo’s garlicky and citrusy tang. Mojo, a revered Cuban sauce, thrives on its sharp, refreshing bite. Add coconut and mango, and the balance collapses under the weight of sweetness. The chicken, which should be the star, becomes merely a vessel for an overpowering mix. The tropical twist, while creative, masks the authentic flavors of Cuba. When cultural dishes become too experimental, their authenticity is often diluted. A dish is more than its components; it’s a story, a tradition, sometimes lost in translation.

4. Cuban Sushi Rolls

When sushi meets Cuban cuisine, the result is intriguing but not entirely successful. Rice wrapped in seaweed, packed with pork, pickles, and mustard, forms a Cuban sushi roll. It’s a novel idea, yet it raises questions about preserving cultural culinary identities. The essence of sushi lies in its subtlety, while Cuban flavors are bold and vibrant. Merging the two can lead to confusion rather than culinary art. Sometimes, boundaries exist for a reason, maintaining the integrity and beauty of each cuisine. This roll might draw curiosity, but it sacrifices authenticity. Innovation should respect tradition.

5. Guava BBQ Ribs with Espresso Rub

Guava and espresso, both treasured Cuban flavors, might seem like a match made in heaven. However, when combined in BBQ ribs, they create a clash rather than a melody. The sweetness of guava pairs awkwardly with the robust bitterness of espresso. BBQ ribs should be about savory satisfaction, yet this dish becomes an experiment in excess. Each bite is a journey through competing tastes. While fusion can lead to exciting culinary adventures, it can also lead to a loss of authentic flavor profiles. Guava and espresso, when paired wisely, should sing together, not fight for dominance.

6. Vegan Picadillo with Cauliflower and Raisins

Vegan picadillo aims to reimagine a classic, using cauliflower in place of ground beef. Raisins add a sweet note, but when they take the lead, the dish loses its savory Cuban essence. The warm spices that define picadillo become whispers beneath the dominant floral sweetness. Tradition often leaves room for creativity, yet it’s crucial not to lose sight of the core flavors. Cauliflower can be a wonderful canvas, but balance is key. Instead of enhancing the dish, the raisins can overwhelm. Creating vegan versions of classics can be delightful, but this attempt veers off course.

7. Cuban “Buddha Bowls”

Cuban Buddha bowls might stand out on a menu, but they stray from authentic roots. With rice, beans, tofu, and assorted tropical fruits, it’s more of a culinary collage than a cohesive dish. The abundance of toppings can overshadow the simplicity and depth of traditional Cuban cuisine. Cuban food celebrates harmony, where each ingredient complements the other. Here, the variety creates a chaotic blend, lacking balance. While visually appealing, it’s the taste that defines a meal’s success. Sometimes, less truly is more. This bowl serves as a reminder that culinary innovation should not overshadow authenticity.

8. Ropa Vieja

Ropa Vieja, meaning “old clothes” in Spanish, is a Cuban classic. Shredded beef simmers in tomatoes, bell peppers, and onions, absorbing rich, savory flavors. Each bite tells a story of comfort and home. This dish embodies the Cuban spirit of warmth and hospitality. The slow cooking process allows spices to infuse deeply, creating a meal that’s both hearty and soulful. It’s no wonder Ropa Vieja remains a beloved staple at Cuban tables. Tradition and taste blend seamlessly, providing satisfaction with every mouthful. This is Cuban cuisine at its finest, where each ingredient plays its part harmoniously.

9. Arroz con Pollo

Arroz con Pollo, a cherished Cuban favorite, brings together chicken and rice in a single pot. Saffron adds a golden hue and aromatic fragrance, elevating this humble dish. As the ingredients cook together, flavors meld into a savory ensemble. Every grain is infused with the essence of spices, while the chicken remains tender and juicy. This meal is more than sustenance; it’s a celebration of family and tradition. Gathered around a table, sharing Arroz con Pollo, represents the heart of Cuban dining. It’s a dish that resonates with warmth and love, cherished by generations.

10. Picadillo (Classic Version)

The classic Picadillo combines ground beef, tomato sauce, olives, and raisins, offering a delightful balance of sweet and salty. Each spoonful is a journey through vibrant flavors, capturing the Cuban spirit. Served over rice, it’s a hearty dish, comforting and satisfying. This beloved meal celebrates simplicity and depth, where spices enhance rather than overshadow. Picadillo is more than a recipe; it’s a connection to heritage and family traditions. It speaks to the heart, evoking memories of shared meals and laughter. In its classic form, it remains a testament to Cuban culinary excellence.

11. Tostones with Garlic Mojo

Tostones, twice-fried plantains, offer a crispy exterior and soft interior, making them irresistible. Paired with garlic mojo sauce, they become an addictive delight. The tangy, garlicky dip enhances the natural sweetness of the plantains, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. This snack is a Cuban favorite, enjoyed on its own or as a side dish. Tostones are a testament to the beauty of simple ingredients elevated by expert preparation. Their crunch and the zesty sauce transport you to vibrant Cuban streets, where food is not just a meal but a joyful experience. A classic, timeless pleasure.

12. Lechón Asado

Lechón Asado, the star of Cuban celebrations, is slow-roasted pork marinated in mojo. The preparation ensures a tender, flavorful meat with a crispy skin that’s simply irresistible. This dish symbolizes Cuban festivity and communal gatherings. Each bite is a revelation of garlicky, citrusy delight, where the marinade permeates the meat entirely. Whether at a large festival or a family dinner, Lechón Asado unites people through its rich taste and tradition. It’s not just food; it’s an event, a centerpiece around which stories and laughter are shared. A Cuban feast is incomplete without it.