Balashi, Aruba’s national beer, is more than just a beverage; it’s a taste of the island itself. Brewed with desalinated Aruban water, it’s the perfect crisp, refreshing accompaniment to the vibrant flavors of Aruban cuisine. This guide explores the best Balashi pairings, taking you on a culinary journey through the One Happy Island.
The Balashi Experience: More Than Just a Beer
Drinking Balashi in Aruba isn’t just about quenching your thirst; it’s an immersive experience. Imagine sitting on a sun-drenched beach, the turquoise waters lapping gently against the shore, the warm Aruban breeze whispering through the palm trees. The perfect companion to this idyllic scene? A chilled bottle of Balashi. It’s the taste of relaxation vacation. From the moment you pop the top, you’re greeted with a subtly sweet, clean aroma that hints at the refreshment to come. The light, crisp taste is incredibly drinkable, making it the perfect beer to enjoy in the tropical heat. But its appeal goes beyond mere refreshment; it’s a symbol of Aruban pride and hospitality. You’ll see it everywhere, from upscale restaurants to casual beach bars, and shared among locals and tourists alike.
Pairing Balashi with Aruban Delights: A Culinary Adventure
The key to successful Balashi pairings lies in understanding its flavor profile: light-bodied, slightly sweet, and with a clean finish. This makes it exceptionally versatile, complementing a wide range of Aruban dishes without overpowering them. Balashi is generally lighter in body and less bitter than American light lagers, so it can stand up to some spice, but is better suited for lighter fare than stouts or IPAs.
Balashi and Seafood: A Match Made in Paradise
Given its island location, Aruba boasts incredible seafood, and Balashi pairs impeccably with it. Consider these pairings:
Grilled Fresh Catch: Whether it’s red snapper, grouper, or mahi-mahi, the clean taste of Balashi cuts through the richness of grilled fish, especially when seasoned with local herbs and spices. Picture yourself at Zeerovers in Savaneta, a popular local spot. For around $20-$30 per person, you can enjoy freshly caught fish, fried to perfection, with ice-cold Balashi. The simple, unpretentious setting, right on the water, adds to the authentic Aruban experience. The fresh, salty air and the simple, delicious food are perfectly complemented by the crispness of the beer.
Ceviche: The citrusy and spicy flavors of ceviche are beautifully balanced by Balashi’s refreshing quality. The beer’s subtle sweetness helps to tame the heat of the peppers, while its crispness cleanses the palate after each bite. You can find excellent ceviche at many restaurants along Palm Beach, with prices varying depending on the establishment. For a more budget-friendly option, look for smaller, local eateries tucked away from the main tourist areas.
Shrimp Scampi: The buttery, garlicky richness of shrimp scampi is another excellent match for Balashi. The beer cuts through the richness, providing a refreshing counterpoint to the savory flavors. Many Italian-Aruban restaurants offer excellent Shrimp Scampi such as Gianni’s Ristorante Italiano, but expect a higher price tag, closer to $40-$50 a plate.
Balashi and Aruban Snacks: Perfect for Sharing
Aruban cuisine is rich in savory snacks, perfect for sharing with friends over a few Balashis. These are some standout options:
Pastechi: These savory pastries, filled with cheese, meat, or seafood, are a staple of Aruban cuisine. The crispy, flaky crust and the savory filling are perfectly complemented by Balashi’s crispness. You can find Pastechi at local bakeries and snack stands throughout the island for just a few Aruban Florin (AWG) per piece – roughly equivalent to $1-$2 USD. Look for them especially in the morning, as they are a popular breakfast item.
Keshi Yena: This Aruban specialty consists of a large ball of cheese (usually Edam or Gouda) stuffed with spiced meat, olives, and raisins. The rich, savory flavors of Keshi Yena are beautifully balanced by Balashi’s light body. While you can find Keshi Yena at some restaurants, it’s often a dish made at home. If you get the chance to try it, don’t miss out. A restaurant portion of this dish can start around $25.
Aruban-Spiced Chicken Wings: Many bars and restaurants offer chicken wings seasoned with local spices. The slight sweetness and subtle heat of these wings pair perfectly with the refreshing character of Balashi. Bugaloe Beach Bar & Grill, located on a pier jutting out into the ocean, is a great spot for wings and Balashi, with live music and stunning sunset views. Expect to pay around $15-$20 for a plate of wings.
Balashi and Heartier Fare: Unexpected Delights
While Balashi is often associated with lighter dishes, it can also hold its own against some heartier flavors:
Stoba (Aruban Stew): Aruban stews, often made with beef or goat, are rich and flavorful. While a heavier beer might seem like a more obvious choice, Balashi’s crispness can actually cut through the richness of the stew, providing a refreshing counterpoint. Local restaurants like The Old Cunucu House offer authentic Aruban stews, often served with funchi (a cornmeal-based side dish) and pan bati (a sweet corn pancake).
BBQ Ribs: The smoky, savory flavors of BBQ ribs are surprisingly well-balanced by Balashi’s subtle sweetness. The beer also helps to cleanse the palate after each bite of the rich, meaty ribs. Consider visiting Smokey Joe’s Island Grill for some excellent ribs and Balashi. This is a popular place to hang out during happy hour after a day at the beach. Expect to pay around $25-$35 for a full rack of ribs.
Beyond the Bottle: Balashi Cocktails and Other Beverages
While Balashi is excellent on its own, it can also be used in creative cocktails. Some bars mix it with fruit juices and local liqueurs to create refreshing island drinks. Keep an eye out for bartenders experimenting with Balashi infusions as well.
Finding Balashi: Availability and Cost
Balashi is readily available throughout Aruba, from supermarkets and convenience stores to restaurants and bars. You’ll find it sold in bottles and cans. A six-pack of Balashi at a supermarket will typically cost around 15-20 AWG (approximately $8-$11 USD). At bars and restaurants, expect to pay around 5-8 AWG (approximately $3-$4.50 USD) per bottle.
Tips for Enjoying Balashi to the Fullest
Serve it ice cold: Balashi is best enjoyed as cold as possible. Chilling the bottles or cans in the freezer for a short time before serving can help ensure optimal refreshment.
Pair with local cuisine: As this guide highlights, Balashi is specifically designed to complement the flavors of Aruban cuisine, so be sure to try it with local dishes.
Enjoy it responsibly: Remember to drink responsibly and stay hydrated in the Aruban heat.
Take advantage of happy hour: Many bars offer happy hour specials on Balashi. This is a great way to save money and enjoy the beer with friends.
Visit the Balashi Brewery: While not a large, elaborate tour, you can reach out in advance to request tours of the Balashi Brewery. Ask your hotel to inquire on your behalf.
Exploring Aruban Dining Beyond Balashi Pairings
While Balashi pairings are central to the Aruban culinary experience, there’s much more to explore. Here are some dining experiences that expand beyond just Balashi, contributing to a richer understanding of Aruban cuisine. Remember though, Balashi almost always fits the occasion well!
Fine Dining with a View
For a truly special occasion, consider dining at one of Aruba’s upscale restaurants with stunning ocean views. Barefoot Restaurant, for example, offers a relaxed, elegant atmosphere with tables right on the sand. Imagine enjoying a gourmet meal, paired with a crisp Balashi, as you watch the sun set over the Caribbean Sea. The cuisine here is international with Aruban influences, with seafood and steak dishes being most popular. Expect to pay upwards of $75-$100 per person.
Authentic Aruban Cuisine at Local Eateries
To truly immerse yourself in Aruban culture, venture beyond the tourist areas and explore the local eateries. These hidden gems often serve traditional dishes made with fresh, local ingredients at much more affordable prices. Ask your hotel concierge or local friends for recommendations. Many authentic restaurants use traditional recipes and flavors passed down through generations.
Food Trucks and Street Food
Aruba has a vibrant street food scene, with food trucks offering a wide variety of delicious and affordable options. From arepas and empanadas to BBQ and seafood, there’s something for everyone. This is a great way to sample different Aruban flavors without breaking the bank. Food trucks usually cluster near beaches and populated town centers.
Detailed Look into Aruban Cuisine: A Culinary Melting Pot
Aruban cuisine is a fascinating blend of influences, reflecting the island’s diverse history. It draws inspiration from Dutch, Spanish, African, and Caribbean traditions, resulting in a unique and flavorful culinary landscape. Understanding these influences can help you appreciate the nuances of Aruban dishes and make informed choices about what to pair with your Balashi.
Dutch Influences
Given its history as a Dutch colony, Aruba has been influenced by Dutch cuisine. While you might not find traditional Dutch dishes everywhere, you’ll often see traces of Dutch flavors and techniques in Aruban cooking. For example, the use of cheese (like Edam and Gouda) in dishes like Keshi Yena is a direct result of Dutch influence. Dutch snack bars are also prevalent and a very popular place among locals to eat fries (patat) with lots of different sauces, croquettes and other fried snacks. This type of fare goes surprisingly well with ice cold Balashi.
Spanish Influences
Spanish colonization has also left its mark on Aruban cuisine. Many Aruban dishes incorporate Spanish ingredients and cooking methods. The use of sofrito (a base of onions, peppers, and garlic) is a common example of Spanish influence. You can see its clear use in stews and meat dishes. Rice dishes are commonly found in Spanish cuisine, and are the preferred choice of many Arubans as well.
African Influences
African influences are evident in the use of spices and in some of the heartier dishes found in Aruban cuisine. Dishes like stews and soups often feature complex spice blends that reflect African culinary traditions. One such spice often found on the island is scotch bonnet peppers. While scotch bonnets originated in the Caribbean some argue that they came from West Africa originally. These peppers are very spicy so be careful!
Caribbean Influences
As part of the Caribbean, Aruban cuisine shares many similarities with other Caribbean islands. The use of tropical fruits, seafood, and spices is a common thread throughout the region. Dishes like ceviche and seafood stews are popular across the Caribbean, with each island putting its own unique spin on them.
Practical Advice for Dining in Aruba
To make the most of your Aruban dining experience, keep these tips in mind:
Make reservations, especially during peak season: Popular restaurants can fill up quickly, especially during the high season (December to April). It’s always a good idea to make reservations in advance to avoid disappointment. You can make these through OpenTable, or by calling direct through the restaurant’s phone number.
Be prepared for Aruban service standards: Service in Aruba can be more relaxed than what you might be used to in other countries. Be patient and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. Tipping is usually expected, around 15-20% of the bill.
Try the local water: Balashi beer is made with Aruban water, which is some of the purest drinking water around. This is great news for enjoying the local brew or enjoying the tap water at a restaurant.
Learn a few basic Papiamento phrases: While English and Dutch are widely spoken in Aruba, learning a few basic Papiamento phrases (“bon dia” – good morning; “masha danki” – thank you) can go a long way in showing respect for the local culture.
Check for happy hour deals: Many bars and restaurants offer happy hour specials on drinks and appetizers. This is a great way to save money and sample different Aruban cuisine.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the alcohol content of Balashi beer?
Balashi typically has an alcohol content of 5% ABV (alcohol by volume), making it a standard lager.
Is Balashi beer gluten-free?
No, Balashi beer is not gluten-free. It is brewed with barley, a grain that contains gluten.
Where can I find Balashi beer outside of Aruba?
While predominantly available in Aruba, some specialty import stores or online retailers may carry Balashi, particularly in areas with large Caribbean communities.
What other local beverages should I try in Aruba?
Besides Balashi, try Aruba Ariba (a rum-based cocktail), Ponche Crema (a local cream liqueur), and various fresh fruit juices like passion fruit or mango.
Are there any tours of the Balashi Brewery?
Tours are not formally open to the public, but you can reach out in advance to request tours of the Balashi Brewery. Ask your hotel to inquire on your behalf.
References
Aruba Tourism Authority Official Website
VisitAruba.com (Official Tourism Site)
Ready to experience the delicious harmony of Balashi and Aruban cuisine? Book your trip to Aruba today and embark on a culinary adventure you won’t forget. Explore the local eateries, savor the fresh seafood, and raise a glass of Balashi to the unforgettable flavors of the One Happy Island. Don’t just visit Aruba—taste it! Get ready to explore and enjoy the One Happy Island!
