The vibrant flavors of Cuban cuisine are renowned worldwide, and its breakfast dishes are no exception. A unique blend of Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences gives Cuban cooking its bold and tantalizing character, making it a rich source of culinary inspiration.
If you’re a fan of Cuban breakfasts, you’ve come to the right place! With over twenty delicious recipes to explore, discover the perfect way to start your day with these mouth-watering Cuban breakfast ideas.
What is a Typical Breakfast in Cuba?
In Cuba, the morning meal is often characterized by simplicity and heartiness. One staple dish is ‘pan con bistec,’ a flavorful sandwich featuring thinly sliced steak, sautéed onions, and a tangy sauce served on crusty Cuban bread. Another beloved option is ‘huevos fritos,’ crispy fried eggs frequently paired with toasted bread and sometimes accompanied by savory bacon or ham.
The humble ‘tostada’ – toasted bread slathered in butter and occasionally sweetened with jam – also makes an appearance, while the rich aroma of ‘café con leche’ fills the air as a robust coffee is mixed with steamed milk to create a satisfying meal. Additionally, some Cubans like to supplement their breakfast with a glass of freshly squeezed juice or a selection of seasonal fruit, rounding out this delightful morning repast.
Best Traditional Cuban Breakfast Recipes
Cuban Coffee
In Cuba, Cuban coffee is a staple that flows through the veins of locals just like blood does. Its bold flavor and rich aroma are woven into the fabric of daily life. The moment you take a sip, you’ll understand why this beloved beverage is an integral part of the island’s culture. And once you’ve tried this simple recipe, it’s likely to become an indispensable part of your daily routine as well.
Fried Sweet Plantains
Indulge in the delightful world of fried sweet plantains, also affectionately known as Maduros. The frying process imbues these tropical treats with an irresistible custard-like texture and a sweetness that’s simply unparalleled. This mouthwatering Cuban breakfast recipe has won my heart for its effortless simplicity and versatility – it’s just as delicious as a dessert or a morning pick-me-up!
Cuban Breakfast Sandwiches
The quintessential Cuban sandwich is built upon a foundation of ham, roast pork, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard, all carefully stacked on a roll before being pressed to perfection. But what if we took this classic formula and reimagined it for the morning? By adding an egg, crispy bacon, and a sturdy English muffin to the mix, we’re not only transforming our snack game but also giving rise to a breakfast sandwich that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Huevos Habaneros
This indulgent Cuban-inspired dish seamlessly blends a medley of mouthwatering elements – succulent sausages, rich baked eggs, and crispy fried plantains. For many, it’s the ultimate comfort food experience that effortlessly transcends time constraints, making it a perfect fit for any mealtime, whether you’re starting or ending your day.
Breakfast Scramble
Give your vegan breakfast scramble a flavorful Cuban twist by combining rich, savory ingredients that will keep you satisfied until lunchtime. This recipe offers a delightful departure from traditional scrambled dishes, and the best part? You can easily substitute tofu with eggs if that’s more to your liking. If you’re looking for more plant-based brunch inspiration, be sure to check out our other delicious vegan recipes!
Keto Cuban Tortilla (Frittata)
Frittatas prove to be an excellent choice for a keto-friendly breakfast, boasting high protein content and negligible carbohydrate levels. Their versatility also lies in their ability to accommodate any desired flavor profile. In this instance, we’re incorporating the bold flavors of Cuba into our recipe. A delightful combination of turnips, chorizo, bell peppers, and onions creates a truly mouthwatering dish that can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it the perfect way to start your day with a bang.
Guava Pastry Recipe
Guava pastries are a beloved Cuban breakfast tradition, often paired with a warm cup of coffee. The good news is that whipping up a batch at home is a cinch. To get started, you’ll only need two key ingredients: guava paste and pre-made puff pastry sheets. For an authentic touch, serve your freshly baked pastries alongside a rich cup of Café Bustelo.
Keto Cuban Casserole
On any given weeknight, there’s no beating the warmth and satisfaction of a hearty casserole. This vibrant Cuban-inspired dish, in particular, boasts an impressive medley of bold flavors, expertly balanced to delight even the most discerning palates. With its perfect blend of cheesy goodness and comforting familiarity, this crowd-pleaser is sure to become a staple in your household, making it an excellent choice for feeding family and friends alike.
Guava Filled Crescents
Indulge in Cuba’s beloved fruit in an entirely new way – by transforming it into scrumptious crescent pastries! Whether you’re kick-starting your day with a breakfast spread or wrapping up a dinner party, these delectable treats are sure to impress. Their adaptability and ease of preparation make them the perfect solution for a quick indulgence, while their out-of-this-world flavor will leave you craving more.
Keto Ground Beef Empanadas
Empanadas strike a perfect balance between convenience and flavor. Their compact size makes them an effortless choice for taking on-the-go, whether it’s to work, school, or simply a quick snack. For many, these tasty treats become a reliable pick-me-up, helping to combat midday sluggishness.
These keto ground beef empanadas boast dual benefits – not only do they provide a satisfying lunchtime reprieve from the norm, but their preparation is surprisingly straightforward and adaptable for meal prep purposes.
Ham and Cheese Croquettes
Indulge in the rich flavors of Cuba with these delectable ham and cheese croquettes, boasting a satisfying crunch on the outside and a warm, cheesy center that’s simply irresistible. To take them to the next level, serve with a dash of your preferred chili for an unexpected yet harmonious combination that will leave you craving more.
Instant Pot Black Rice Pudding
Transform a beloved comforting sweet breakfast into a unique Cuban-inspired treat by infusing it with the rich flavors of black rice and sweet condensed milk. This Instant Pot recipe is not only scrumptious but also adaptable for those without an electric pressure cooker, as it can be easily prepared on the stovetop. For more mouth-watering and nutritious breakfast bowl ideas, explore these delectable options!
Arroz Con Leche
Another take on Spanish-inspired rice pudding presents itself in this iteration, boasting a more traditional approach than its predecessor, the black rice recipe. This rendition incorporates subtle notes of cinnamon and a tangy lemon zest, evoking the warmth and comfort often associated with Cuban cuisine.
Black Beans and Sausage
Indulge in the rich flavors of Cuba with this delightful recipe featuring black beans! A hearty bowl of black beans and sausage is an ideal morning pick-me-up, packed with protein to keep you satisfied until lunchtime. Plus, its versatility makes it perfect for meal prep – simply refrigerate or reheat as needed.
Deviled Ham Sandwiches
In Cuban cuisine, Pasta de Bocaditos is a beloved sandwich that harmoniously blends flavors of melted cheese, savory ham, and sweet red peppers. This quintessential morning treat is perfect for packing on a family picnic, paired with a refreshing cold drink and some tangy pickles to round out the meal. With this recipe, you’ll be well-equipped to start any day off right.
Cuban Style Rice with Fried Eggs and Bananas
Transforming a humble morning into a fiesta-filled start with the whole family! This delectable recipe brings together three fundamental Cuban staples – white rice, fried egg, and plantains (or bananas) – to craft a satisfying meal that’s sure to delight. The vibrant and flavorful Cuban-style rice is easily prepared in advance, freeing up your morning to tackle any challenge. With this powerhouse breakfast idea, you’ll be energized and ready to take on the day!
Papas Rellenas
Imagine sinking your teeth into a tender, meaty center surrounded by a satisfying crunch – that’s exactly what you’ll experience with Papas Rellenas, affectionately known as ‘Cuban Potato Meatballs.’ These heavenly potato balls are the perfect combination of textures and flavors. Not only will they impress your breakfast guests, but you can also have them ready in under an hour, making them a convenient addition to any morning gathering.
Baked Tostones
When it comes to a satisfying snack, tostones – essentially green plantains – are a fantastic option. One of their greatest advantages is that they’re not overly sweet, making them the perfect canvas for whatever seasonings you prefer to create a delicious breakfast-on-the-go. With an air fryer or oven, whipping up a batch in under an hour is a breeze.
Imperial Rice
The Imperial Rice dish boasts a majestic name that sets high standards for its performance. Fortunately, it exceeds these expectations in grand style! This delectable rice casserole is overflowing with flavor, delivering a culinary experience that tantalizes every palate. At its core lies a harmonious union of chicken and yellow rice, while an array of spices and vegetables works together to create a rich tapestry of taste sensations that invites you to take a seat in Flavortown – population: your eager taste buds.
Chicken Fricassee
Transform last night’s chicken into a mouthwatering Cuban-inspired breakfast masterpiece! The next morning, whip up this bold and vibrant fricassee dish to breathe new life into leftover poultry. Not only is it an ideal way to repurpose yesterday’s dinner, but also a fantastic option for a quick weeknight supper or make-ahead lunch that the whole family will devour.
Plantanos Maduros Con Miel
For our final recipe, we’re reimagining the humble Maduros in a luxurious brunch twist. Rich additions like butter, sugar, honey, and tequila sauce elevate this morning classic to new heights. The result is a dish that’s sure to impress your guests and leave them craving more. Serve it up at your next brunch gathering for an unforgettable experience.