Arroz a la cubana

Arroz a la Cubana, or Cuban-style rice, is a cherished dish particularly popular in Cuba. At its heart, it comprises rice and a fried egg, often enhanced with plantains or bananas and tomato sauce. The dish’s origins are somewhat enigmatic, with some attributing it to Peru or the Philippines, while others trace it back to colonial Cuba during Spanish rule.

The allure of Arroz a la Cubana lies in its regional variations. In Cuba, it is typically served as white rice topped with tomato sauce and a fried egg, accompanied by fried plantains or bananas. In the Philippines, this dish has been a staple since the Spanish colonial era. There, it often includes ground beef sautéed with onions, garlic, tomato sauce, diced potatoes, raisins, diced carrots, white rice, a fried egg, and slices of ripe native plantain.

In Peru, the dish takes on yet another form. Here, it frequently features white rice, fried plantains, a fried hot dog, and a fried egg.

Regardless of where you encounter it, Arroz a la Cubana is a testament to the rich cultural influences and culinary traditions of each region. It is a simple yet versatile dish that provides a comforting taste of home.