People often associate the holidays with activities like baking, snowball fights, ice skating, and drinking hot chocolate. In the southern hemisphere. However, people prefer to take advantage of the sunny days and warm weather to go to the beach and improve their tan. For example, for the holiday season in Aruba locals recharge by planning beach days or engaging in water sports. As Christmas approaches, they also start thinking about the ingredients they will need to prepare the special dishes they love and enjoy every year.
From roasted stuffed turkey and carefully crafted ayacas to delicious keshi yena, the holiday season in Aruba are only completed with flavourful and delicious meals that are meant to be shared with friends and family. Here at Ocean Z Boutique Hotel we encourage travelers from all over the world to taste these delectable treats, especially if they are thinking about staying on the island during Christmas or New Years Eve.
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The holiday season in Aruba: what do people eat during Christmas dinner?
Holiday chicken
Although this particular dish is a holiday classic enjoyed in many parts of the world, the Aruban version features a few special touches. Preparation begins a day in advance by seasoning the meat with Adobo, a condiment that has garlic, oregano, salt, and other spices. Some people might add a splash of soy sauce and red wine before letting it rest overnight. Once it is ready, cooks cover it with aluminum foil or banana leaves and bake it in the oven. After one and a half or two hours (depending on the weight), the chicken will be ready to become one of the most memorable parts of the holiday season in Aruba.
Ayaca
Ayacas are similar to Mexican tamales. Credits: Thu Huynh/Pexels
When they think of comfort foods, Arubans (and also Venezuelans!) often mention ayacas. It is a pocket made with cornflour and filled with a mixture of meats (beef, pork, and chicken are the most common alternatives), as well as raisins, capers, onions, olives and peppers. Similar to the holiday chicken, the dough is wrapped with banana leaves, resembling a small present. Families often make ayacas in bulk, leading them to gather and form a small, but festive production line. Each person usually has a specific task, with some chopping onions for the filling and others mixing the dough. This scene takes place amidst laughter, music and jokes.
Ham di Pasco
The holiday season in Aruba would not be as special as they are if it wasn’t for Ham di Pasco. It is the result of European and Caribbean influences and a bit of local ingenuity. The latter is easy to identify through the use of local spices and accompaniments like potato puree, white rice or fresh salads. Those who appreciate a blend of sweet and savory flavors will love this roasted ham. The recipe calls for Worcestershire sauce, mustard, and salt, but it is the heavy syrup, red wine, pineapple slices, and whole maraschino cherries that define its distinctive taste and look.
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Keshi Yena
Keshi yena is a finger-lickeing preparation that has the perfect cheese pull. This is all thanks to the main ingredient: the shells of Edam or Gouda cheese. Credits: PublicDomainPictures/Pixabay
Aruba’s Dutch heritage is evident in neighborhoods like Noord, which translates to “north” and the use of aged cheese like Edam and Gouda in the local cuisine. Arubans have found creative ways to incorporate these products into their diet, most notably in Keshi Yena, a cheese casserole stuffed with spiced meat and vegetables.
The origins of Keshi Yena date back to colonial times (between the 17th and 18th centuries) when slaves repurposed leftover Edam and Gouda rinds into a hearty meal. As time went by, it gained popularity and its consumption spread throughout the island. Today it is known as Aruba’s national dish and can be savored year-round. However, we at Ocean Z Boutique Hotel believe it tastes better when paired with the other items on this list.
Ocean Z Boutique Hotel: meet our restaurant
The restaurant at Ocean Z Boutique Hotel is the perfect fine dining option for this upcoming holiday season in Aruba. Credits: Ocean Z Boutique Hotel
In addition to being the best accommodation on the island, Ocean Z Boutique Hotel is the home to a restaurant that offers fresh and delicious food surrounded by a tranquil ambiance. This holiday season, our Christmas decorations will be the prelude of a unique dining experience, featuring a wide array of appetizers, entrees and main dishes, all inspired by local products and international cuisine.
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