Aruba, located in the Dutch Caribbean, stands out as a sought-after cruise destination, boasting picturesque tropical beaches, crystal-clear waters, and thrilling adventures.

Complementing the sun, sand, and sea experience is the island's diverse and flavorful cuisine, influenced by a fusion of Dutch, Spanish, Portuguese, South American, and Caribbean culinary traditions.

Aruba's gastronomy reflects its rich cultural tapestry, offering a delightful array of dishes that cater to a variety of tastes.

From local seafood specialties to Dutch-inspired treats, visitors can embark on a culinary journey that captures the essence of the island.

Here are some of the best Aruba dishes to try when you visit the country:

Pastechi

Aruba's national snack, the pastechi, is a popular choice for those seeking a tasty treat after sightseeing or beach activities, per Celebrity Cruises.

Unlike traditional empanadas, pastechis feature a crescent-shaped pastry shell filled with a variety of options such as beef, chicken, tuna, cheese, ham, or vegetables.

Enhanced with flavors like raisins, cumin, nutmeg, and occasional heat from hot peppers, pastechis cater to diverse tastes.

Whether enjoyed at vendor stalls, grocery stores, or snack bars, these snacks highlight Aruba's culinary diversity and provide a convenient way for families to satisfy their appetites while exploring the island.

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Sopi

Aruba's culinary scene boasts a variety of soups, each reflecting the island's diverse cultural influences.

Notable among them is the cool island soup, a refreshing blend of pineapple, cantaloupe, apricot, and papaya with a hint of lime for a zesty kick-ideal for hot days.

For heartier appetites, erwtensoep, a thick Dutch pea soup, is a local favorite. This substantial dish combines split peas, smoked sausage, and ham hocks, offering a comforting and satisfying option.

Sopi mondongo, or tripe soup, is another beloved choice, featuring a cow's stomach and cow's heel.

Enriched with onion, sweet potato, plantains, and West Indian pumpkin, this soup provides a flavorful and unique culinary experience.

These soups showcase the diverse and vibrant offerings in Aruba's food scene, highlighting the island's multicultural influences and culinary creativity.

Keshi Yena

Influenced by Dutch cuisine, keshi yena is a prominent dish in Aruba that revolves around cheese, in line with the Dutch emphasis on this dairy product, according to Carnival.

The name itself, "keshi yena," suggests its focus on cheese. These savory treats take the form of cheese balls filled with a spicy meat combination and coated with Gouda or Edam cheese.

The appeal of keshi yena extends beyond its rich flavors, encompassing diverse variations.

Whether stuffed with prunes, raisins, cashews, or other ingredients, there's a version to suit every palate.

This culinary offering invites indulgence in the different iterations of keshi yena, allowing one to savor the unique combinations of flavors.

Bolita di Keshi

When cruising in Aruba with kids, you may be contemplating what to eat, especially if the little ones have discerning palates.

Fortunately, the island offers a delightful and kid-friendly snack known as "bolita di keshi," or fried cheese balls.

These savory treats are a popular choice among local children, providing a delicious and accessible option for youngsters after disembarking from the ship.

Bolita di keshi, featuring fried cheese balls, can be a flavorful and satisfying snack for both children and adults alike.

The cheesy goodness of these treats is sure to appeal to a wide range of tastes, making them a convenient and enjoyable option while exploring the culinary offerings of Aruba.

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This article is owned by Latin Post.

Written by: Bert Hoover

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