Growing up in Miami, a burger meant something different than the American classic you’d expect. It wasn’t Fuddruckers, Johnny Rockets or a classic late-night Denny’s burger that was Miami’s favorite. It didn’t have a pickle and didn’t come on a big bun. This was a simple, cheap treat found in every Cuban cafe across the city: The Cuban Frita.
The Cuban Frita: An Unverified History.
The story of the Frita dates back to the early 20th century, in the streets of Havana, Cuba. It is believed to have been inspired by the American hamburger, which gained popularity on the island during the American occupation of Cuba in the early 1900s. However, the Frita quickly evolved into a distinctively Cuban creation, reflecting the island’s unique take on the use of Latin ingredients, like Cumin and a Cuban bread bun.
One theory suggests that the Frita was originally created by Cuban immigrants who worked in the cigar factories of Ybor City, Tampa, Florida. These immigrants brought their culinary traditions with them. Over time, the Frita became a staple in Cuban communities both in Cuba and abroad – a food made for feeding the people.
Ingredients and Evolution:
At its core, the Cuban Frita consists of a seasoned ground beef or pork patty, typically mixed with spices such as cumin, paprika, garlic, and onion. This flavorful patty is then grilled or pan-fried until golden brown, imparting a delicious charred aroma.
One distinctive element of the Cuban Frita is its sauce. It ain’t just ketchup. This tangy, slightly spicy sauce is made from a base of tomato sauce or ketchup, vinegar, and spices, including cumin and paprika. The sauce adds a layer of aromatics and acid to the Frita, elevating it from a simple burger to one bursting with flavor. Addicting.
Another key component of the Frita is the addition of deliciously crispy potato strings or picnic fries, which are often served on top of the patty or alongside it… or both. These thin, crunchy potato sticks add a texture contrast to the soft bun and juicy meat, making each bite a crunchy delight. Traditionally, this burger is served with enough potato strings to just shovel into your mouth in between bites.
A Frita’s Cultural Significance
Beyond its culinary appeal, the Frita holds a special place in Cuban culture as a beloved street food enjoyed by people from all walks of life. It is commonly found in “ventanitas” or street food stalls, where vendors grill up batches of patties and serve them hot off the grill to hungry customers.
Growing up in Miami, the Frita king was and still is indeed El Rey de Las Fritas. Since 1979, they have sold decades worth of fritas – quick, cheap, and full of flavor. Crispy bread, tons of potato strings, and a bold juicy patty. Wrapped in wax paper, shoved in a greasy paper bag. Perfection.
Now, let’s bring the flavors of this classic Cuban sandwich into your kitchen with this Cuban Frita Recipe.
Cuban Frita Burger
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Beef, 80/20 or 90/10.
- 1 Small Onion, Finely Chopped
- 2 Cloves Garlic, Minced
- 2 Spanish Chorizos, Dried, Minced
- 2 Tsp Ground Cumin
- 1 Tsp Paprika
- 1/2 Tsp Salt
- Pepper to Taste
- 1/2 Cup Ketchup
- 1 Tbsp White Vinegar
- 4 Burger Buns
- Vegetable Oil for Frying
- 2 Large Russett Potatoes, Peeled and Julienned (Or Pre-Made Picnic Fries)
- Salt To Taste
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, minced chorizo, minced garlic, half the chopped onion, 1 tsp of ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the seasoned meat mixture into 4 patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
- In a small bowl, mix together the tomato sauce or ketchup, white vinegar, and the other 1 tsp of Cumin make the sauce. Set aside.
- Heat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the beef patties for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and golden brown.
- While the patties are cooking, heat vegetable oil in a separate pan over medium-high heat. Fry the julienned potato until crispy and golden brown. Remove from the oil and drain on paper towels. Season with salt to taste. If in a pinch for time or determination, just use Picnic Fries.
- To assemble the Fritas, place each cooked patty on a burger bun. Top with a spoonful of the sauce, some chopped onion and a generously large handful of crispy potato strings or picnic fries.
- Toast the Frita by pressing down the bun onto the grill. Serve hot when the bread is crispy.
- You may add cheese if you like: swiss or white american are acceptable cheese options.
The Cuban Frita is more than just a burger – it’s one of the Caribbean’s favorite sandwiches that reflects the rich history and vibrant spirit of Cuba. So, next time you’re craving a taste of Cuba, whip up a Frita and eat like the Miami locals. ¡Buen provecho!
