Culture+1C.+Food+of+Puerto+RIco

Food

The [|cuisine of Puerto Rico] has roots in the cooking traditions and practices of Europe, Africa and the Amerindian Taínos. Many of the dishes contain root plants like yuca, that come from the Taínos. Some of their main plates are made from plantains that were brought from the western part of Africa, and a lot of the seasonings were introduced to the island by the Europeans.In the latter part of the 19th century the cuisine of Puerto Rico was greatly influenced by the United States in the ingredients used in its preparation. The cuisine can be as simple as rice with beans, or as complicated as pasteles that are made for special occasions. Either way, the food is delicious and everyone should have a taste. Here are some recipes to try at home:      [|Lechón asado] Lechón asado is essentially roasted pork prepared with Puerto Rican seasonings. A lot of people reserve lechón asado for holidays and special occasions. [|Carne frita con tostones] Carne frita con tostones is fried meat with fried green plantains. This dish is simple to make and can be eaten for either lunch or dinner. [|Mofongo] Is a plantain-based dish that can be mixed with chicken, pork, beef, or seafood. Mofongo is a dish that is commonly found in Puerto Rican restaurants, but it is not as common to be prepared in the home.  