Cuban dishes are usually a combination of native Taino food, Spanish, African, and Caribbean cuisine. Some Cuban recipes share spices and techniques with African and Spanish cooking, with some Caribbean influence in spice and flavor. The results in a unique, interesting and flavorful blend of the several different cultural influences, similar to food from neighboring Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. Typical Cuban meals include rice and beans, cooked together or apart. Common Cuban meals are Ropa vieja, which is a shredded beef dish simmered in tomato-based criollo sauce until it falls apart. Another popular dish includes tamales, as well as soups and stews.