Cooking the Cuban Way

Alison Behnke · Victor Manuel Valens

Jan 2004 · Lerner Publications

About this ebook

Combining the cultural traditions of Spain, indigenous Cubans, Africans, and various other immigrants, Cuban cuisine is simple and filled with flavor. Rich spices such as garlic, oregano, and cumin combine with fresh produce, staples such as rice and beans, and pork or fresh seafood to fill Cuban menus. Although the people of Cuba are divided along class lines, they enjoy the same food—Salsa Criollos, Frijoles Negros, Tostones, and Cerdo Asado.

About the author

Born in Rochester, Minnesota, Alison Behnke had the good fortune to live in Rome, Italy, for three years while in grade school. Not only did this move expand her horizons enormously and introduce her to one of the world’s best and most beautiful cities, but it provided her with a wealth of writing material. Even before her Roman holiday, however, Alison knew that she wanted to be an author—a desire which, according to her parents, she first voiced around age six. Good teachers, avid reading, and a children's librarian for a mother all fed the fire. Alison went on to take a degree in English with a focus on Creative Writing, and at present count she has written more than thirty books. Alison lives in Minneapolis, and when she's neither reading nor writing, she spends her time on pursuits including photography, travel, and striving to make the perfect espresso.