When we are on vacation, we must remember one important rule: the calories we consume do not count. This unofficial guideline encourages us to enjoy our free time to the fullest and is surely written somewhere in the sand. At least, that is how it feels on the silky shores of Aruba, an island rich in dishes with depth, spicy aromas and natural sweetness. Here, every bite is an invitation to savor the local culture.
Food in Aruba has a comforting character that is worth discovering. Each preparation reflects an interesting mix of influences from the New and the Old World. From a side bowl filled with fluffy, yet crispy cala to delectable giambo, a trip to the Happy Island is an unmissable chance to try or revisit some of its best delicacies (just in case they are not available in your local supermarket!).
Food in Aruba: An eclectic gastronomy for all palates
As we said, vacations are the perfect time to treat yourself to the freedom of indulgence…. But not just in anything. While the food in Aruba is as special as its beaches and landscapes, we at Ocean Z have a curated list of delights that charm both the eyes and the palate.
The Best Food in Aruba: A Gastronomic Adventure
Cala, Aruba’s “edible souvenir”
Arubians enjoy cala, made with cayenne or Madame Jeanette peppers, as a snack. Credit: Jhunelle Francis Sardido/Unsplash
Good company turns any experience into an unforgettable moment. That is why a well-balanced cocktail gets even better with the right snacks. In this category, Arubans excel with cala, spicy fried balls made from black-eyed peas (or “boonchi wow pretu” in Papiamento). These legumes create a fluffy interior, while the frying process gives them a crispy exterior. According to Taste Atlas, cala is served “piping hot”.
Now, you might wonder where the bold, audacious flavor of this snack comes from. You have two options: cayenne or Madame Jeanette pepper. The first adds a milder taste, whereas the second, common in Caribbean cuisine, delivers a heat level between 125,000 and 325,000 on the Scoville scale. Want a tougher challenge? Try dipping one in some Pica di Papaya, Aruba’s “signature hot sauce”.
Pastechi, the island’s golden, crispy crescents
From cheese to vegetables, pastechis can be filled with virtually anything. Credit: Aruba.com
Speaking of Pica di Papaya, there are other dishes that pair perfectly with it. For example, pastechis are fried dough pockets filled with cheese, vegetables, chicken, various cuts of meat, or local seafood. Other ingredients include onion, green pepper, celery, and raisins, along with cumin and nutmeg, which give them the piquant touch that is essential to food in Aruba and the Caribbean.
Although similar to those prepared in South American countries such as Venezuela, Brazil, Argentina, and Chile, pastechis stand out for their light, flaky dough, sweet notes, and compact size. People usually eat them for breakfast or as a light snack. The latter might explain why they are often best sellers at roadside stands.
Discover the ABC Islands: What are they and how to tell them apart
Giambo, the soup of the Lesser Antilles
Giambo shares key ingredients with gumbo, the quintessential Southern American stew. Credit: Mawuli Tofah/Pexels
Besides pastel-colored facades and knowledge of the Dutch language, the ABC islands share delicious meals. In this case, we want to highlight giambo, a hearty soup that combines beef, okra (a green, pepper-like vegetable that serves as a natural thickener and possesses a slippery texture), and, most commonly, red snapper.
This homemade comfort food from Aruba resembles Louisiana gumbo. However, it features a simpler, cleaner broth, as well as garnishes like shrimp, oysters, and a couple of spoonfuls of thick, smoky polenta. Not convinced about eating a hot dish when the sun is at its peak? Then opt for a bowl of Cool Island Soup, filled with pieces of pineapple, papaya, apricot, and other fruits swimming in sparkling water.
Would you like to have information about traditional dishes that shape Aruba‘s most authentic cultural scene at your fingertips? Access our free guide by clicking the button below:
Food in Aruba: An exciting culinary experience awaits you
Ocean Z Restaurant focuses on international cuisine. Credit: Ocean Z Boutique Hotel & Restaurant
A culinary adventure in Aruba deserves a grand finale. Among the many dining options, Ocean Z Restaurant stands out for its international cuisine. The menu, carefully crafted by our team, satisfies the most discerning palates by combining local ingredients with haute cuisine techniques. Dishes like the 8-ounce filet mignon, with its golden exterior and juicy interior, the sweet and buttery lobster tail, and the well-seasoned saffron seafood paella with a light socarrat showcase this sophistication. Did your mouth water? Us too! Reserve a table today:
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