The people on the island of Puerto Rico refer to their traditional
food as Comida Criolla all throughout the
island of Puerto Rico you will see signs saying Comida Criolla como tal en
clasa or some variation of that phrasing. La comida Criolla is a mixture of the different races and costumes that were
brought together on the island. In relating La comida Criolla to my personal
culture, it could be best described as the soul food of the island. La comida
Criolla like already mentioned is a creole (or mixed blend) of different cultures.
The tainos were clearly the first people to cook on the island of Puerto Rico.
Some of the taino influences that can be seen la comida criollla is the use of
some roots native to Puerto Rico and also the process of barbequing food. The
Spanish brought ingredients like olive oil, pork, cheese, olives, ham, chicken,
and the complex soup dishes that is a marker of Puerto Rican cuisine. The Africans
brought okra, a variety of root vegetables, beans, Bananas, and of course
Plantains. The African influence can also be seen in the abundance of frying in
Puerto Rico.
Mofonogo
One major food of African origin that is eaten in Puerto Rico often is Mofongo. Mofonogo is said to come from a famous West African dish named fufu. The dish is typically made with fried green plantains that have been mashed together in a pilon. At times it is served with a side dish or filled as a complete dish with meat inside.
Mofonogo
One major food of African origin that is eaten in Puerto Rico often is Mofongo. Mofonogo is said to come from a famous West African dish named fufu. The dish is typically made with fried green plantains that have been mashed together in a pilon. At times it is served with a side dish or filled as a complete dish with meat inside.