In a nation where food scarcity has become a daily reality, the Cuban government is now promoting the Hibiscus Flower as a culinary "alternative." During the "From Field to Plate" Culinary Workshop held in Mayabeque, producers, international chefs, academics, and officials gathered to highlight the benefits of this plant, from its use in beverages to dishes like lasagna and combinations with chicken.
The authorities are advocating for its cultivation as a remedy to the food crisis, emphasizing its nutritional and medicinal qualities, according to the National Institute of Agricultural Sciences (INCA) on their official Facebook profile. However, while the Hibiscus Flower is recognized in various countries as an excellent food source, to many Cubans, it remains largely unfamiliar and seems more like an improvisation than a serious answer to the shortage of basic foods.
The publication emphasized the rich "nutritive properties" of the Hibiscus Flower, noting that during the workshop, it was presented in a "variety of combined dishes," including "pineapple, chicken, lasagna, pastries, pancakes, and drinks." According to the INCA, these creations were "well-received by attendees," suggesting that in times of crisis, any edible alternative might become the new star ingredient, as was previously the case with moringa.
Workshop organizers stated that this product is not only an "option and alternative" for commercial activity but also "could introduce new food proposals to the table, with nutritional properties," seemingly implying that the magical solutions to Cuba's food crisis now come in the form of a flower. Additionally, producers were encouraged to "continue expanding the cultivation of the valued plant," highlighting not only its medicinal properties but also its diverse culinary uses.
With this discovery, the Cuban menu could diversify, although the regime seems indifferent to the fact that obtaining basic products remains a daily struggle. Amid the announced worsening of the food crisis on the island, the official press suggested that Cubans eat corozo nuts, cassia fistula, and cactus, plants they referred to as underutilized edible species in the country.
A report from Periódico 26 in Las Tunas states that food sovereignty is a regime aspiration "far from becoming a reality," while the population faces the daunting task of putting food on the table, which they must purchase at high prices.
Exploring the Use of Hibiscus Flower in Cuba
What is the significance of promoting the Hibiscus Flower in Cuba?
The promotion of the Hibiscus Flower in Cuba is an effort by the government to introduce an alternative food source amidst severe food shortages. It is highlighted for its nutritional and medicinal properties as a potential solution to the ongoing food crisis.
How is the Hibiscus Flower being used in Cuban cuisine?
During the culinary workshop, the Hibiscus Flower was showcased in various dishes, including lasagna, chicken combinations, pastries, and beverages, highlighting its versatility in Cuban cuisine.
Why are some Cubans skeptical about the use of Hibiscus Flower?
Many Cubans are skeptical because the Hibiscus Flower is not widely known as a food source in Cuba and may seem like an improvised solution rather than a reliable answer to the food shortages.