A Cuban woman took to social media to reveal the inventive ways she navigates daily life to cook amidst the shortages and challenges faced by many families on the island. In a TikTok video, she offers a glimpse into her kitchen as she prepares a meal for her son. "Good afternoon, I'm about to open the fridge to take out the two chicken thighs I have left for our meal. Of course, we'll tie the fridge shut again. You might be wondering about this cord: it means the fridge doesn't seal properly, causing even the milk from the ration store for my child to spoil," she explained.
She demonstrated how she has to secure her refrigerator door with a rope to prevent the cold air from escaping, a homemade trick to preserve the few groceries she can store. In the same video, she showcased the two chicken thighs she planned to cook into a dish known as "ripiadito" for her family's lunch.
Her story highlights the daily struggles of countless Cuban families who must come up with creative solutions in the face of food scarcity, inadequate appliances, and the deterioration of household equipment.
Challenges of Cooking in Cuba
Why do Cubans have to use unconventional methods to preserve food?
Cubans often face shortages of food and reliable appliances, requiring them to use creative methods to prevent spoilage and make the most of their limited resources.
What is "ripiadito"?
"Ripiadito" is a Cuban dish typically made with shredded meat, in this case, chicken, often prepared as a way to stretch limited ingredients further for family meals.