A viral video from the TikTok account Cubansalvifamily (@cubansalvi503family) captures a young Cuban woman living abroad as she prepares what she calls a "Cuban snack" for her Salvadoran husband. This culinary offering did not leave viewers indifferent. It features a very modest menu: bread drizzled with oil and raw garlic, served alongside a glass of water mixed with brown sugar.
While this combination might seem like a culinary curiosity elsewhere, it actually reflects a harsh reality born from scarcity. Many Cubans grew up eating this when there was nothing else available, and with the current economic crisis, even this simple snack is out of reach for many families. Bread, garlic, oil, and sugar have become luxury items in Cuba.
In the video, the Salvadoran husband reacts with laughter, but he can't help noting the obvious: there are two whole cloves of garlic inside the bread and a drink overloaded with three tablespoons of sugar. The video elicits a range of reactions, from laughter to nostalgia, and even sadness in some cases.
Among the hundreds of comments, one succinctly captures the mix of emotions: "It made me sad to see this snack, but sometimes I prepare it here in the United States too because, though humble, it reminds me of my childhood in Cuba," shared one user.
Cuban Snack and Economic Challenges: Key Questions
Why is the "Cuban snack" significant?
The "Cuban snack" is significant as it highlights the harsh realities of scarcity in Cuba. It is a reflection of how many people had to make do with what little was available during tough economic times.
What are the components of the "Cuban snack" featured in the video?
The snack consists of bread topped with oil and raw garlic, accompanied by a glass of water mixed with brown sugar.
How has the economic crisis in Cuba affected access to basic food items?
The ongoing economic crisis in Cuba has turned basic food items like bread, garlic, oil, and sugar into luxuries, making them inaccessible to many families.