Marilyn Marrero

Just Like Mima's Marilyn Marrero

Just Like Mima's is the heartwarming story of Cruz María Herrera (Mima) - from hopeful memories of a difficult childhood in Cuba, to remarkable strength when faced with the unknown - and the beautiful connection she has with each of her descendants.

The oldest of 10 children, born in the rural province of Holguín, Cuba, Mima had big dreams of a better life for herself and her family. Despite the lack of stable education, healthcare, and nutrition in her community, her boldness and work ethic provided opportunities to experience a different lifestyle in the capital city of Havana, where she eventually met her husband.

A few years after the beginning of the Cuban Revolution, he was held as a political prisoner under Fidel Castro's regime, and they ultimately emigrated with their four children to the United States during the Mariel Boatlift of 1980. 40 years later, Mima has a large, loving, close-knit family - including 10 adult grandkids and more than 10 great-grandkids - all of whom can see the impressions of her love, courage, faith, and wisdom on their hearts.

It is also a compilation of 50 authentic Cuban recipes from Mima's kitchen. Enjoy classics like Pan con Bistec (Steak Sandwich), Arroz con Pollo (Chicken and Yellow Rice), Croquetas (Croquettes), Frijoles (Black Beans) and Platanitos (Fried Sweet Plantains)... comforting dishes like Sopa de Pollo (Chicken Soup), Carne con Papas (Stewed Beef with Potatoes) and Harina Dulce de Maíz (Sweet Cornmeal Pudding)... and a few fun additions like Chicharritas (Green Plantain Chips), Torrejas con Almíbar (French Toast with Homemade Syrup), Boniato Frito (White Sweet Potato Fries) and Mermelada de Mango (Mango Jam).

Join us as we celebrate all that we've learned from Mima and seek to carry on her legacy through our hearts, traditions and kitchens.

¡Buen Provecho! (Enjoy!)