A Cuban named O'Reilly (Chicago - March, 2009) - Nothing says St. Patrick's Day like a bowl of "frijoles negros" (black beans). Don't laugh because history-loving Cubans dance a jig every March 17th to honor Alejandro O'Reilly. An Irish general who swore allegiance to the Spanish crown, O'Reilly came to Cuba's aid in the late 1700's. After falling prey to pirates and the invading British Royal Navy, Habaneros looked for help in fortifying their defenses. In his book, Havana - Autobiography of a City, journalist Alfredo Jose Estrada writes of the Irishman's memorable return to the island. O'Reilly marched Spanish forces into Havana in 1763 - receiving the colonial city back from the Redcoats (who occupied "La Habana" for five months after a successful siege). The handover was part of the negotiated end to The Seven Years War.
Historians say the Spanish then asked O'Reilly to analyze what went wrong in the failed defense effort. To prevent future invasions, the general designed a new plan to fortify the city. He refined military training, bolstered troop levels and led the construction of "La Cabana" fortress to help guard Havana harbor.
With the great city secured, the Irishman soon married into a prominent Havana family, securing his place in the island's history. His wife, Doña Rosa de Las Casas, was the sister of Luis de Las Casas, the Governor of Cuba. Years later, Habaneros named a street in the general's honor. To this day, you can walk on the centuries-old cobblestones of "Calle O'Reilly" - undeniable proof of the bond between Ireland and Cuba.
Old Havana Foods - In the News! People go loco when they taste our tantalizing "Picadillo" (or Chili-Cubano, as we prefer to call it). And thanks to your overwhelming response, Old Havana Foods is quickly drawing national attention.
After launch, our family-owned business was profiled on Chicago superstation, WGN-TV (send us an e-mail or call if you want a FREE DVD copy with your next order!) Next month, look for features in a pair of national news journals. You can learn about the making of Old Havana Foods in Latino Magazine, an exciting new publication dedicated to culture, politics and food (among many other things!) And you can read more (in English or Spanish) in April's NegociosNow.com (a magazine profiling the latest trends in Latino business). Thanks to all who attended our Old Havana Foods cooking demonstration at this month's Chicago Flower & Garden Show at Navy Pier. Although cooking in front of 200 people makes me a bit nervous, it was fun to give Chicago a taste of Old Havana!
Old Havana Foods is now on Facebook! Become a fan!
Looking for more recipes, stories and great Cuban-style food?
Visit http://e2ma.net/go/1814418638/1658684/61761612/goto:http://www.oldhavanafoods.com/
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