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Oranjestad (Aruba)
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Main course
Meat
Food Flavour DNA
Nutritional Values
700kcal
40gProtein
18gCarbs
52gFat
3gFibre
350 gServing
* Per serving · 350 g. May vary.
Allergens
🥛 Dairy
Keshi Yena
How to order / say it
Say it
Keshi Yena — [Keh-shee Yeh-nah]
Order
I'd like to try Keshi Yena, please.
Locally
Ik zou graag Keshi Yena willen proberen, alstublieft.
Say locally
A large, hollowed-out cheese stuffed with spiced meat and baked.
Why try it?
Keshi Yena is a culinary symbol of Aruba's resourcefulness, reflecting the island's history of using leftovers creatively. It is a favorite specialty of Oranjestad, showcasing the fusion of Dutch and Caribbean influences.
How it tastes
Rich and savory, the dish features melted cheese enveloping a flavorful filling of spiced beef or chicken. The aroma of nutmeg and herbs enhances the hearty, cheesy experience.
Origin & History — first documented: 1850
Originating in the 19th century, Keshi Yena began as a means to utilize leftover food by the Afro-Caribbean community in Oranjestad. Over time, it became a beloved dish for gatherings and celebrations.
Recipe
Ingredients
- 🥛 300 g Gouda cheese
- 🥩 400 g Ground beef
- 🧄 100 g Onion
- 🥕 50 g Tomato paste
- 50 g Olives
- 🍯 30 g Raisins
- 🧂 1 tsp Nutmeg
- 🧂 1 tsp Cayenne pepper
Method
- 1 Hollow out the Gouda cheese to create a shell.
- 2 In a skillet, cook ground beef with onion, tomatoes, olives, and raisins.
- 3 Season with nutmeg and cayenne pepper, then stuff the cheese and bake.
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