Savoring Aruba: A Culinary Expedition into Caribbean Flavors” by Aliza Green
Aruba Online News – Award-winning cookbook author Aliza Green invites readers on a gastronomic journey through the rich and diverse culinary landscape of Aruba in her latest book, “Aruba’s Papiamento Cuisine: New Caribbean Cooking Celebrating its Creole Roots and Multicultural Flavors.” This $40.00 US publication, unveiled in Panamericana, Bogota, Colombia, in October 2023, serves as both a love letter and an introduction to the unique flavors of the small Caribbean island.
Green’s dynamic exploration takes readers through Aruba, unraveling a cuisine infused with vibrant Caribbean creole ingredients and techniques, enriched with international flair. Collaborating closely with Chef Urvin Croes of Infini and Po-ké Ono, and Franz Sydow, partner in the new Bodegas Papiamento Rum distillery, the book delves into the stories and heritage of local food artisans, creative farmers, fishermen, bakers, distillers, and restaurateurs.
Drawing on multiple culinary traditions, Aruba’s talented and creative chefs create a true fusion cuisine, influenced by Aruban, Indonesian, Peruvian, Nikkei (Japanese-Peruvian), Dutch, Trinidadian, Spanish, Venezuelan, Jamaican, and African flavors.
“Aruba’s Papiamento Cuisine” features over 120 recipes ranging from home-style to elaborate, and traditional to modernist, shared by the island’s top chefs, legendary home cooks, and mixologists. With over 100 beautiful photos, the book immerses readers in Aruban culture and cuisine, while dual metric and US measurements make it accessible to both visitors and locals alike.
The book also includes interviews with influential Arubans, such as Dr. Filomeno Marchena, UNESCO Professor of Sustainable Water Technology and Management at the University of Curacao, who discusses his ethno-eco-agricultural approach. Aruban cultural ambassador Alice van Romondt shares stories of large gatherings at her home every Saturday and favorite family recipes.
From the northernmost corner in Noord to the southern tip in San Nicolas, Green takes readers into the kitchens of Aruba, providing recipes for soups, appetizers, salads, main dishes, side dishes, condiments, desserts, and a bonus cocktails chapter.
About the Author: Aliza Green is a highly influential chef, author, and culinary consultant with extensive knowledge of international cuisine, culture, and technique. Recognized for her role in elevating Philadelphia into a premier dining destination since the 1980s, Green has authored more than 15 cookbooks and food guides, receiving a James Beard Award as co-author of “Ceviche: Seafood, Salads, and Cocktails with a Latino Twist.” Learn more at www.alizagreen.com.
