Aruba Cuisine: What to Eat
Aruba is not just famous for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife; it also offers a diverse and delicious culinary scene influenced by Caribbean, Dutch, and Latin flavors. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking to try something new, Aruba’s cuisine has something to satisfy every palate. Here are the top dishes you must try when visiting the island.
1. Keshi Yena
A staple of Aruban cuisine, Keshi Yena is a rich and flavorful dish made with melted cheese stuffed with spiced meat, vegetables, and seasonings. It is a must-try for cheese lovers.
2. Fresh Seafood
Being an island, Aruba is known for its incredibly fresh seafood. Red snapper, mahi-mahi, and wahoo are commonly served grilled, fried, or in delicious stews. Be sure to try the local favorite, “Pisca Hasa,” which is a simple yet flavorful fried fish dish.
3. Pastechi
A popular Aruban snack, Pastechi is a deep-fried pastry filled with cheese, meat, chicken, or even seafood. It’s a great option for breakfast or a quick bite while exploring the island.
4. Funchi and Pan Bati
Funchi, a cornmeal-based side dish similar to polenta, and Pan Bati, a slightly sweet flatbread, are commonly served with stews and seafood dishes. They are essential components of a traditional Aruban meal.
5. Sopi di Pampuna
This Aruban pumpkin soup is rich, creamy, and slightly sweet, making it a comforting dish perfect for any time of the day.
6. Aruban Stews
Aruba’s hearty stews, such as “Carni Stoba” (beef stew) and “Cabrito Stoba” (goat stew), are slow-cooked with spices and vegetables to create a deeply flavorful meal. These dishes are typically served with rice or funchi.
7. Dutch Pancakes
A nod to Aruba’s Dutch heritage, these pancakes are larger and thinner than American pancakes and can be enjoyed with sweet or savory toppings like cheese, ham, fruit, or syrup.
8. Bolo di Cashupete
For dessert, try Bolo di Cashupete, a rich cashew cake often served at celebrations. This dense, nutty cake is a sweet way to end any meal.
9. Aruba Ariba Cocktail
A signature drink in Aruba, the Aruba Ariba cocktail is a tropical mix of rum, vodka, banana liqueur, fruit punch, and grenadine. It’s the perfect refreshing beverage to enjoy on the beach.
10. Local Rum and Balashi Beer
Don’t leave Aruba without trying the locally brewed Balashi Beer or a glass of locally distilled rum. These beverages complement the island’s cuisine perfectly.
Aruba’s culinary scene is as vibrant as its landscapes, offering a mix of local and international flavors that cater to every taste. Whether you prefer seafood, stews, or sweet treats, there’s always something delicious to try.
