For many, the words “Cuban cuisine” evoke images of vibrant street markets, tropical beaches, and warm hospitality. The rich culinary heritage of Cuba is a true reflection of its cultural diversity, shaped by African, Spanish, Caribbean, and Latin American influences. From hearty stews to succulent meats, each dish tells a story of resilience, creativity, and community. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through 22 mouthwatering authentic Cuban recipes that will transport your taste buds to the sun-kissed streets of Havana.
Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork
Mojo marinade, a staple of Cuban cuisine, adds depth and flavor to this tender pork dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder or butt, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup mojo marinade (see below)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Mojo Marinade:
– 1/2 cup sour orange juice (or substitute with a mixture of equal parts lemon and lime juice)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together mojo marinade ingredients.
2. Add pork cubes to the marinade and mix until coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
5. Remove pork from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off.
6. Place pork on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, drizzle with olive oil, and season with salt and pepper.
7. Bake for 30-40 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Classic Cuban Sandwich
Classic Cuban Sandwich Recipe
Experience the flavors of Cuba with this iconic sandwich, featuring slow-roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pickles, and mustard on crispy bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound slow-roasted pork shoulder, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 slices ham (such as Black Forest or prosciutto)
– 2 slices Swiss cheese
– 1/4 cup dill pickle slices
– 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
– 4 crusty Cuban bread rolls (or similar)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading mustard on the bottom slice of bread, followed by a layer of pork, ham, Swiss cheese, and pickles.
3. Top with the remaining bread slice.
4. Place the sandwiches in the preheated press or grill and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Ropa Vieja (Shredded Beef Stew)
A classic Cuban dish, Ropa Vieja is a hearty and flavorful stew made with shredded beef, onions, garlic, and spices. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef brisket or flank steak
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/2 cup red wine vinegar
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the beef broth, red wine vinegar, tomato paste, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the beef is tender.
7. Shred the beef with two forks and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Cuban Black Beans (Frijoles Negros)
Cuban Black Beans (Frijoles Negros) are a staple dish in Cuban cuisine, often served alongside rice, meat, or vegetables. This recipe is a classic take on this beloved legume-based dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried black beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, chopped
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the soaked black beans, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Arroz con Pollo (Cuban Chicken and Rice)
A flavorful and aromatic one-pot dish, Arroz con Pollo is a staple of Cuban cuisine. This recipe combines juicy chicken, savory rice, and rich spices for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and diced tomatoes. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Stir in the rice, chicken broth, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Picadillo (Cuban Ground Beef Hash)
A flavorful and savory hash made with ground beef, onions, bell peppers, tomatoes, and spices, Picadillo is a staple dish in Cuban cuisine.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 large onion, finely chopped
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the bell peppers and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cuban Tamales
Get ready to transport your taste buds to Cuba with this traditional recipe for Cuban tamales! These sweet and savory treats are a staple of Cuban cuisine, made with tender pork or beef wrapped in a delicate corn dough called masa.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups masa harina
– 1/2 cup lard or vegetable shortening
– 1 cup warm water
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Filling ingredients (see below)
– Banana leaves for wrapping
Filling:
– 1 pound cooked pork or beef, shredded
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 garlic clove, minced
– 1 tablespoon cumin
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine masa harina, lard or shortening, and salt. Gradually add warm water and mix until a dough forms.
2. Divide the dough into small balls.
3. Place a spoonful of filling in the center of each ball.
4. Fold the dough over the filling to form a triangle, and press edges together to seal.
5. Wrap tamales in banana leaves, folding them tightly around the tamale.
6. Steam tamales for 1-2 hours or boil for 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours (steaming), 30 minutes (boiling)
Yuca con Mojo (Cassava with Garlic Sauce)
A classic Cuban dish that combines the starchy yuca root with a flavorful garlic sauce, perfect for accompanying grilled meats or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 large yucas (cassavas), peeled and cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Boil the yuca pieces in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain and let cool slightly.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine garlic, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Pour in the garlic sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Add the cooked yuca to the pan and toss with the garlic sauce until well coated.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cuban Style Roast Chicken
Experience the bold flavors of Cuba with this classic roast chicken recipe, infused with the aromas of citrus, garlic, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 whole chicken (3-4 lbs)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the chicken, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place the chicken in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and golden brown.
7. Remove from the oven and let rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Malanga Fritters
A tropical twist on traditional fritters, Malanga Fritters are a delicious and crispy treat made with malanga (also known as cassava or yuca) and flavored with garlic and chili peppers.
Ingredients:
– 2 large malanga tubers
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– 1 small red onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chili peppers, sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Boil the malanga tubers until tender. Drain and let cool.
2. In a bowl, mash the cooled malanga with a fork until coarsely mashed.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium heat.
4. Add the minced garlic, chopped onion, grated ginger, cumin, salt, and pepper to the oil and sauté for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
5. Using your hands, shape the malanga mixture into small patties.
6. Fry the patties in batches until golden brown (about 3-4 minutes per side).
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot with a sprinkle of chili peppers if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cuban Lentil Soup
This classic Cuban dish is a staple of the island’s cuisine, with a rich and comforting flavor profile that’s sure to become a favorite. With its blend of tender lentils, aromatic spices, and tangy lime juice, this soup is perfect for a cozy night in or as a quick and easy lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika; cook until onion is translucent.
2. Add lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
3. Stir in chopped cilantro (if using). Serve hot with lime wedges on the side.
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Bistec de Palomilla (Cuban Style Thin Beef Steaks)
A classic Cuban dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor! Thin beef steaks are marinated in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, and citrus, then grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 thin beef steaks (about 1/8 inch thick)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large ziplock bag, combine olive oil, garlic, lime juice, and oregano.
2. Add the beef steaks to the marinade, making sure they’re coated evenly.
3. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
5. Remove steaks from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Grill steaks for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Cuban Fish with Creole Sauce
Experience the bold flavors of Cuba and the Caribbean with this mouthwatering fish dish smothered in a spicy Creole sauce.
Ingredients:
– 4 fish fillets (snapper or tilapia work well)
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup Creole seasoning blend
– 1/2 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add Creole seasoning blend and stir for 1 minute.
4. Place fish fillets on top of the sauce and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together ketchup, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Pour over the fish.
6. Return to oven and bake for an additional 5-7 minutes, or until sauce is caramelized and bubbly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: About 20-25 minutes total.
Cuban Style Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the bold flavors of Cuba with the sweetness of bell peppers. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color)
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
5. Stir in the cooked rice and diced tomatoes.
6. Stuff each pepper with the meat mixture, filling to the top.
7. Drizzle the tops with olive oil and cover with aluminum foil.
8. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Lechon Asado (Cuban Roast Pork)
Experience the rich flavors of Cuba with this classic recipe for Lechon Asado, a tender and juicy roast pork dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder or butt, bone-in
– 1/4 cup sour orange juice (or substitute with lime juice)
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together sour orange juice, olive oil, garlic, and oregano.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat it evenly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the pork in a large roasting pan or Dutch oven, fat side up.
6. Roast for 2-1/2 hours, or until the meat is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Note: Traditionally, Lechon Asado is cooked over an open flame, but this recipe allows you to achieve similar results in your oven. Let the pork rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cuban Flan
This classic Cuban dessert is a creamy, caramel-topped delight that’s sure to impress. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this rich and indulgent treat at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg yolk
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Freshly ground cinnamon, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar, heavy cream, whole milk, and egg yolk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens and reaches 170°F (77°C) on a candy thermometer.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and salt.
4. Pour into 6 (1/2 cup) ramekins or small baking dishes.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the edges are set and the centers are slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool to room temperature, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours.
7. Drizzle with caramel sauce and serve chilled, garnished with a sprinkle of cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tostones (Fried Green Plantains)
Tostones: A Delicious Twist on Fried Green Plantains
Get ready to savor the crispy, sweet, and savory flavors of Puerto Rico’s beloved Tostones!
Ingredients:
– 3-4 green plantains
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt, to taste
– Optional: Garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Peel the plantains and cut them into 1-inch thick slices.
2. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Fry the plantain slices in batches until they’re golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Remove the Tostones from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil.
5. Sprinkle with salt and any desired seasonings (e.g., garlic powder or paprika).
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time:
– Frying time: 4-6 minutes total
– Cooling and seasoning time: 2-3 minutes
Cuban Bread Pudding
Rich and buttery, this Cuban bread pudding is a sweet and satisfying dessert inspired by the flavors of Cuba. Moist bread, toasted coconut, and a hint of rum create a delightful treat perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups stale Cuban bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup toasted coconut flakes
– 2 tablespoons dark rum (optional)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and eggs.
3. Add heavy cream, vanilla extract, and toasted coconut flakes. Whisk until well combined.
4. Add bread cubes and stir until evenly coated.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly. If desired, drizzle with dark rum and dust with confectioners’ sugar.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cuban Coffee (Cafecito)
A strong and rich coffee drink that’s a staple in Cuban culture, perfect for morning pick-me-ups or mid-afternoon energy boosts.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon of finely ground Cuban coffee beans (or espresso)
– 2 tablespoons of sugar
– 1/4 cup of hot water
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, combine the sugar and 1 tablespoon of hot water. Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves.
2. Add the ground coffee to the saucepan and whisk continuously for about 30 seconds, or until the mixture forms a thick, creamy paste.
3. Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
4. Pour in the remaining 1/4 cup of hot water and stir well to combine.
5. If desired, add heavy cream and stir gently.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Cuban Guava Pastries (Pastelitos de Guayaba)
These sweet and flaky pastries are a classic Cuban treat, filled with the vibrant flavor of guava jam. Perfect for a snack or dessert, they’re sure to transport you to the sun-kissed streets of Havana.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup guava jam
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
– Confectioners’ sugar (for dusting)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. Cut into squares, about 3 inches per side.
4. Place a tablespoon of guava jam in the center of each square.
5. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a triangle or a square shape, and press edges together to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until pastry is golden brown.
8. Dust with confectioners’ sugar before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cuban Avocado Salad
Savor the vibrant flavors of Cuba with this refreshing salad, combining ripe avocados with tangy citrus and spicy notes.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine diced avocado, red onion, and chopped cilantro.
2. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss gently to combine.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. If desired, add finely chopped jalapeño pepper for an extra kick.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Cuban Shrimp Creole
This classic Cuban dish combines succulent shrimp with aromatic spices and tangy tomatoes, resulting in a mouthwatering creole that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With its bold flavors and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons Creole seasoning
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add shrimp, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for 2-3 minutes or until pink.
4. Stir in tomatoes, cilantro, and Creole seasoning. If using white wine, add it now.
5. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve hot over rice or with crusty bread.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Conclusion
Experience the vibrant flavors of Cuba with these 22 authentic recipes! From classic dishes like Cuban Mojo Marinated Pork and Ropa Vieja (Shredded Beef Stew) to beloved sandwiches like the Classic Cuban Sandwich, there’s something for everyone. Explore hearty stews and soups, savory meats and fish, and sweet treats like Cuban Flan and Guava Pastries. Learn how to make flavorful side dishes like Yuca con Mojo and Malanga Fritters, as well as comforting desserts like Cuban Bread Pudding. Get ready to spice up your kitchen with these delicious and authentic Cuban recipes!
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
