The transition from Cuba to the United States involves more than just embracing new freedoms or accessing consumer goods. It also shows up in everyday routines, such as cooking. A TikTok video posted by the user @thaly47216 captures a newly arrived Cuban woman attempting to cook beef steaks, still influenced by the scarcity mindset ingrained from years on the island.
"She's just arrived and hasn't gotten used to the abundance yet. I have to keep an eye on her," the young woman says with a laugh, as she films her mother-in-law in the kitchen. The video depicts the older woman trying to ration the steaks, worried about waste, as if she were still facing the shortages typical of Cuban markets.
The clip, which has garnered thousands of views, humorously illustrates the adjustment many Cubans face upon arriving in the U.S., where they can finally access products they had only seen in photos or movies for decades. For those who grew up in Cuba, where beef is nearly a luxury and its sale is tightly controlled by the state, the idea of freely cooking multiple steaks without fear of shortages or penalties is still a novel concept.
Comments on the post were filled with supportive and humorous messages from users who identified with the scene: "My mom did the same thing when she got here," one user shared. Another commented, "I spent weeks not touching anything in the fridge because I felt like everything would run out."
The video not only brings a smile but also highlights the enduring impact of a culture shaped by scarcity and survival, even when far from Cuba.
Understanding the Cuban Experience in the U.S.
Why is beef considered a luxury in Cuba?
In Cuba, beef is heavily regulated by the government, making it scarce and expensive. The state's control over its distribution means most Cubans have limited access, turning beef into a coveted luxury.
How do Cubans adjust to the availability of goods in the U.S.?
Adjusting to the abundance of goods in the U.S. can be challenging for Cubans, as they are accustomed to rationing and scarcity. Over time, they learn to embrace the availability and variety of products without the fear of shortages.