October 23, 2024
Miami is a vibrant city, known for its unique blend of cultures, sun-soaked beaches, and dynamic food scene. At Bill Hansen Catering, we offer a myriad of specialty cuisines, but we also love putting together a great menu that reflects the heart of Miami’s culinary diversity. From tropical flavors to Latin influences, our signature offerings capture the essence of local cuisine, making any event a true South Florida experience. Here are seven standout dishes that will transport your taste buds straight to the Magic City.
1. Havana Nights Station
When it comes to capturing the spirit of Miami, the Havana Nights Station is a crowd favorite. This station brings the rich and flavorful cuisine of Cuba to your event, paying homage to Miami’s deep Cuban roots. Picture a beautifully arranged station decorated with hand-rolled Cuban cigar boxes, paired with mini-Cuban sandwiches—freshly pressed with slow-roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, and pickles. The station often includes other Cuban classics like Churrasco with Chimichurri sauce, Lechon or Slow-Roasted Pork, and the side staples of fried plantains, black beans, and yucca fries, transporting guests to a lively night in Havana.
The sights, sounds, and flavors of this station are perfect for outdoor events or themed gatherings, adding a nostalgic, yet modern twist to any celebration. With every bite, the Havana Nights Station reminds guests why Miami is so closely intertwined with Cuban culinary traditions.
2. Ropa Vieja Hors d’Oeuvre
Ropa Vieja is one of Cuba’s most beloved dishes, and we’ve reimagined it into an elegant hors d’oeuvre that highlights its bold flavors in a sophisticated presentation. Our Ropa Vieja hors d’oeuvre features tender, slow-cooked shredded beef seasoned with a blend of cumin, garlic, and smoked paprika. The beef is braised to perfection, absorbing all the vibrant spices that make Ropa Vieja a standout dish.
Served in small, bite-sized portions on crisp plantain tostone or in mini cornbread cups, this hors d’oeuvre is as visually stunning as it is delicious. Each bite offers a satisfying combination of savory beef, a touch of sweetness from sautéed peppers, and the satisfying crunch of its base. It’s a perfect way to introduce guests to Miami’s Cuban culinary heritage, offering an authentic taste with a sophisticated twist.
3. Ceviche Hors d’Oeuvre
Miami’s coastal location makes seafood a must-have on any local-inspired menu, and ceviche is a perfect representation of the city’s love for fresh, vibrant flavors. Our Ceviche hors d’oeuvre is a bright, zesty dish that showcases the best of South Florida’s seafood, offering guests a refreshing and tangy experience.
We use the freshest locally sourced fish, shrimp, or a mix of seafood, marinated in citrus juices until tender and flavorful. Tossed with finely diced onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and a hint of spice from jalapeños, the ceviche is served in delicate spoonfuls or mini cups. The combination of citrus and spice perfectly balances the natural sweetness of the seafood, making this hors d’oeuvre a light and flavorful bite that’s perfect for warm Miami evenings.
4. Stone Crabs (Raw Bar)
No Miami-inspired menu would be complete without the addition of fresh stone crab claws, a true South Florida delicacy. Harvested from the warm waters off the coast of Miami, stone crabs are renowned for their tender, sweet meat. At Bill Hansen Catering, we source the freshest stone crabs during the season to give your guests an authentic taste of Miami’s coastal bounty. As a part of our Raw Bar, stone crabs bring a touch of luxury and local flavor to any event, offering a true taste of the sea.
5. Guava-Glazed Pork Belly
We had to do a nod to the city’s love affair with tropical fruits, and guava is one of the most iconic. Our Guava-Glazed Pork Belly brings together the rich, fatty flavors of slow-cooked pork belly with the sweet and tangy punch of a guava glaze.
This dish is a favorite for those who enjoy a balance of sweet and savory. The pork belly is slow-roasted to achieve a crispy exterior, while remaining tender and juicy on the inside. The guava glaze, made from locally sourced fruit, adds a tropical sweetness that perfectly complements the richness of the pork. Finished with a sprinkle of sea salt and fresh herbs, it’s a mouthwatering dish that embodies Miami’s unique flavor profile.
6. Key Lime Tartlets
To end any Miami-inspired meal on a high note, there’s nothing quite like the refreshing taste of key lime. Our Key Lime Tartlets offer a bite-sized version of this South Florida classic, blending the tart, creamy flavor of key lime with a buttery, flaky crust. Topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a lime garnish, these tartlets deliver the perfect balance of sweet and tangy.
While simple in concept, these tartlets are a delightful reminder of the Key’s tropical charm. They provide a light, refreshing finish to any meal, leaving guests with the taste of South Florida’s signature dessert.
7. Traditional Cuban Flan
For those with a love for classic desserts, our Traditional Cuban Flan is the perfect way to close out any Miami-inspired meal. This rich, velvety custard, infused with hints of vanilla and caramel, melts in your mouth with every bite. The flan is made from a traditional Cuban recipe, staying true to the dessert’s roots while offering a timeless indulgence.
The caramel sauce, poured over the flan to create a glossy, golden top, provides a perfect balance of sweetness without overwhelming the rich custard underneath. With its smooth texture and elegant presentation, the flan is a beloved staple of Miami’s dessert scene and a must-have at any event that celebrates the flavors of the city.
At Bill Hansen Catering, we pride ourselves on offering a menu that reflects Miami’s vibrant culture and culinary diversity. Our signature Miami dishes—from the Havana Nights Station to our refreshing Ceviche hors d’oeuvre—are designed to transport your guests to the heart of Miami, offering a taste of the local flavor with every bite. Whether you’re hosting a corporate retreat, wedding, or social gathering, these dishes will elevate your event and leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Contact us today to bring the flavors of Miami to your next event!