Aruba Cuisine, 10 Dishes You'll Want to Try
Our clients love Aruba and many return each year. The Island is also known as one of the ABC
Islands and further south, making it a great choice all year round as its also
below the main hurricane belt. Its not
guaranteed to miss the island but over the years it has been rare that the
Island has been affected like many of the islands further north such as the
Bahamas, Turks & Caicos etc.
As the most vibrant island in the Caribbean, Aruba is more
than meets the eye. With untouched beaches and a ton of adventures awaiting,
there's an endless amount of fun to be had. But what about the island's food?
Well, that's just as good, maybe even better, especially after a long day of
exploration. So, to help you prepare and plan for your trip to the island, here
are ten dishes you must indulge in.
Seafood
Perhaps the most apparent food to try while on the island is the fish and seafood. In the Caribbean Sea, some of the most amazingly fresh seafood can be found. Take your pick between mahi-mahi, grouper, lionfish, prawn, or red snapper if you're looking for a simple dish to try. However, the options go on forever
Photo: Seafood meal in Aruba
Pan Bati
This bread is usually on the side of every main dish served
on the island, and with good reason. Pan Bati is a sweet flatbread that dissolves
in your mouth. Although it is prepared with simple ingredients, it is far from
being dull in flavor.
Stews and Soups
Many of the local eateries and restaurants serve traditional
Aruban stews and soups. Usually, the stews are full of chicken, fish, or goat
meat, although you can still find soups and stews made with beef or lamb as we
make it here in the states.
Ayaca
Dried fruit and cashews adorn this delectable dish of steamed beef wrapped in a banana leaf. That's not all you get, though. There are a ton of ingredients used to create this unique, mouth watering Venezuelan dish.
Photo: Family enjoying breakfast at a Hotel in Aruba. Delicious plates of fruit, pancakes & waffles
Keshi Yena
This authentic Aruban meal is a must-try! It includes a ball
of cheese stuffed with meat or poultry that is spiced to perfection. Anywhere
you go on the tropical island, you will find a unique and off-beat version of
this dish.
Funchi and Banana Hash
This combo is certainly one that packs a lot of tasty
flavors! Funchi is fried cornmeal mush, often served with gouda and a side of
fried plantains.
Authentic Aruban Desserts
Pudding is a big deal in Aruba. You must order a helping of Pan Bollo (bread pudding with Ponche cream or rum, and ice cream) or Bolo di Banana (plantain pudding).
Photo: One of Arubas Many beachside dining locations
Hot Papaya Sauce
Often served on the side of meals, hot papaya sauce is the
perfect addition to a meal if you can stand the sweet heat of papaya fruit
mashed with hot peppers.
Aruba Ariba and a Local Beer
Although it isn't food, the local beer is worth a shot.
Balashi is the most popular beer on the island, but there are a ton of delicious
choices.
Pastechi
Pastechi is a portion of famous Aruban street food. You can
find it offered by most street food vendors, and all of them claim to make it
best. No matter where you get it, you don't want to miss out on this gouda
filled pastry.
It doesn't matter what restaurants or cafes you choose to
visit while in Aruba, but make sure you don't leave without indulging in some
of the foods mentioned on this list! They are by far some of the greatest,
tastiest options on the island. If you would like more information on the most
popular restaurants and places to go, please don't hesitate to send over an
email with your inquiries.
Ready to try some of these mouth watering dishes? Contact us today to start planning your Aruba Getaway!
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Travel Advisor: Sarah Robinson
Adiona Travel