Cuban Agriculture

The history of Cuban agriculture follows a direct correlation to the history of the government of the country.
Before the communist revolution, the Cuban government had begun to depend very heavily on trade with other countries, namely, the United States. In fact, an estimate of 75% of the country’s revenue came from exportation of one of Cuba’s main crops: sugar.
When Cuba fell under the control of Fidel Castro, the impact was almost completely detrimental to the agricultural aspect of the country.
At that time, the United States, along with a few other dominant countries, placed trade embargoes on Cuba, stopping all imports and exports. For a country that depended so heavily on trade, this had a severe impact.

It has only been recently that the woes of poverty have begun to be rectified as an agricultural revolution of sorts has taken place. In recent years, instead of lingering in poverty, the people of the country have begun to work to establish an agricultural society that is more independent and self-sustaining. Through this method, and through moving more and more toward a Cuba urban farming, system which removes the need for expensive transportation, the country has begun a move toward agricultural success.

The Crops in Cuba

Tobacco would be the second largest crop for Cuba and is the crop used to make the famous cigars. Other types of crops that grow well include grapefruit, plantains, bananas, potatoes and rice. One interesting new agricultural success that Cuba has found coincides with the new revolution of urban farms. The country has recently become one of the most prolific producer and exporter of bio-fertilizer.
Additionally, Cuban has become quite successful at producing wholly organic foods.

Food in Cuba

This unique mix of cultures and the unique food items that are grown on the island has lead to a list of the typical food of Cuba that is filled with exotic recipes and diverse meal options.
The two main staples of any meal in Cuba would be beans and rice. Almost every meal, including breakfast, will include each of these two elements.
There are a number of ways that the items are cooked in order to create different tastes and styles. The beans and rice used in Cuban recipes are generally black and yellow respectively.

The main meat used in Cuban dishes is pork. The limited quantities of beef are imported and delivered to the State restaurants. Beef or "carne de rez" is a luxury in Cuba.
These meats are basted in a sauce made from tomatoes or are flavored with Caribbean style spices. One very specific style seasoning, which is used in pork dishes, is called Cuban Mojo. This sauce includes a combination of lime juice, orange bitters, crushed garlic, grated onion, vegetable oil, and oregano.

Of course, most Cuban dishes will include the tropical fruits of the island, specifically plantains and bananas. The fruits can be cooked in a number of ways, including baking or frying, and they are used as a side dish to the main meal. Naturally, Cuban cuisine also includes other side items, including tomatoes and corn.
It is quite obvious that Cuban agriculture, and even the dishes most favored on the island, were greatly influenced by the island’s turbulent past.

Not found what you're looking for?
Search for more detailed info in HAVANA-GUIDE

Custom Search