National cuisine of Netherlands Antilles for gourmets. Authentic recipes, delicacies and specialties

The Netherlands Antilles are characterized by an incredibly colorful cuisine. This diversity is due to the fact that the territory belonged to the Netherlands for a long time. European culture naturalized on the islands. It's reflected in many aspects, including local dishes. However, the indigenous population increasingly influences everyday life, so it is not surprising to see classic Dutch steaks and local fish balls on one table.

The basis of the national cuisine in the Antilles is, of course, seafood. The surrounding sea is incredibly rich, so most of the local dishes include shrimp, lobster, all kinds of deep-sea fish, shells and even algae. Servings are abundantly seasoned with vegetable oil. Vegetables are used as a side dish. Local chefs regularly come up with something new to continue the culinary development of the islands. Until recently, local people used meat rarely. Now, classic steaks are cooked more and more often. Caribbean spices help to create a truly amazing combination.

There are dozens of local treats. Still, there are the most noteworthy dishes that every guest of the islands should try. For example, barbecued snapper or barracuda, several different types of salted cod, grilled shells stuffed with cactus fruits, and a soup called sopi kama piska, which includes bananas and fish or meat. It is also worth mentioning the soup called sopi di piska based on fish and coconut milk. This amazing combination has an unusual taste. The dish is in high demand not only among locals but also among tourists. Another treat, which can be safely called national, is called keshi yena. This baked mixture includes cheese, raisins, tomatoes, olives, as well as beef, poultry or fish. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

Local people do not disregard traditional Dutch dishes, whether it is light-salted fish or cheeses. If we talk specifically about culinary masterpieces that include meat, we have to mention special pies called pastechi. The meat filling in them is combined with spices. That's the most popular local snack. In restaurants, you can always find a lamb or goat stewed with vegetables, a unique iguana soup, and even a well-done poultry. The last dish has an uncommon name for this place, galina. However, most of the menu is still occupied by dishes that may seem very unusual. These include pork tails stewed with papaya and rice.

The dish is most often served with green beans. Do not forget about the traditional everyday cuisine, which is simpler, but still remains unique. Bean pancakes, pea porridge, okra soup are served in almost any cafe. You can taste coconut or potato pudding, as well as a pie with guava as a dessert. However, remember that each of the islands has its own distinctive features, as well as its own name for a particular dish.

A special attention should be paid to drinks. Alcoholic beverages are popular on the Antilles. The beer industry can even give odds to many other countries. The echo of the Dutch is still reflected in beer brands such as Heineken or Amstel, well known all over the world. Of course, when talking about the islands located in the Caribbean one should not forget about the upscale rum. Various liquors are produced both by natives, who sell these drinks, as well as large enterprises. There is the local brand, Saba-Spice, that produces a unique drink of rum, anise, cloves, nutmeg, and orange peel.