The foods of Taino, Arawaks Amerindians and the Spanish, as well as the food from parts of Africa have all had an effect on how Puerto Ricans eat. While the cooking of Puerto Rico is similar to the foods of Latin America and Spain, it is still unique and flavorful. It uses locally grown ingredients and seasonings to create unique food. The Spanish influence includes olive oil, black pepper, wheat, onions, basil, oregano, garlic, cilantro, eggplant, ham, citrus fruit, pork, beef and cheese. From Africa came coffee, yams, coconuts, sweet bananas, seeds and plantains. From Mexico come the ingredients of avocadoes, tomatoes, cocoa, bell peppers, and vanilla. Peru and Brazil contributed passion fruits and potatoes.
