It has been said that history and location determine the food of a nation. The family! of Latin American nations share the common heritage of their first roots in Spain and Portugal, the Iberian peninsula of Europe. In families, children grow up and move away from home; they travel to new places, have new adventures and make new friends. just so, the children of Iberia went their separate ways, affected by different influences as they adapted to new homes, yet holding fast to their precious heritage while becoming new nations.

The countries of Central America and Mexico reflect the influence of their Indian population in their fiery food. The Caribbean countries find the ingredients for their cuisine in the luscious fruit of the islands. The plentiful fish of the Pacific and the remarkable beef of the South American plains place their mark on the cooking of the nations that they benefit.

Today, Florida is the crossroads of Latin America. Yet, long before today, Spain and South America were part of the current of history that flowed through this state.

This collection of recipes most resembles a family album or one of those notebooks of recipes that are handed down, with torn pieces from magazines and little index cards in an unfamiliar writing tucked between the pages. You rifle through the book and remember the dessert that your nanny used to make and dishes that always showed up at family feasts and Sunday suppers. This is a collection of recipes contributed by a group of friends that share a common tradition and heritage.