American cuisine (the cuisine of the USA) reflects the mentality of the whole American nation and is characterised by rationality, standard and mass character. The food eaten by Americans has often been the object of mockery and criticism.
Cuban cuisine
Cuban cuisine was formed as a result of fusion of Spanish and Caribbean cuisines. The main factors influencing the Cuban cookery were not only traditions but also the different ethnic groups that lived in Cuba since ancient times. At first they were Indians, then Spaniards, now also Chinese, Frenchmen and some others. English and Arab cuisines also contributed to the development of the Cuban one.
Within the country there are some differences in the methods of preparing dishes. For example, in Santiago-de-Cuba and the eastern part of the island the food is more piquant and spicy. Coconut and chocolate are very popular in the central and the western part of the country, and coconut oil and coconut milk is used in preparing dishes. As for the meat, Cubans prefer chicken and pork, although it is not very good for the health. Dry white wine is usually added while preparing pork which makes it not very fat but very delicious.
Of a particular interest are the names of the dishes in Cuba. Cubans have a sort of a creative approach to naming dishes. For example, 'Ropa vieja' is translated as 'old clothes' (which is a sliced meat with Creole sauce, the bits of which remind Cubans pieces of fabric), or a dish called "Moors and Christians" is nothing but rice with black peas. The favorite Cuban desserts are various fruits - both fresh and prepared in a meal (imagine a pie with guava or a pie with a coconut, oranges and a pumpkin). As an supper snack a salad made of avocado, salmon, mango or pineapple is usually prepared.
In general, Spanish meals are plain, but due to the spices like saffron they are rich with delicate taste. As a special flavouring for soups and salads olive oil is used. It is considered to be the most useful of all oils for the human organism.
Indian cuisine is one of the oldest, the richest and the most diverse cuisines in the world. An Indian meal usually consists of snacks, for example salads, then main course, pastas and bakery called chapati, which is eaten with vegetables and rice.