What is Keshi Yena, Curacao’s national dish?

While many people might sip on the boldly blue liquor, Curacao’s national dish is not a cocktail. Keshi Yena is a beautiful fusion of the country’s cultural influences, and the flavor is one that visitors will never forget.

Whether people visit the Curacao for a brief stay during a Caribbean cruise or prefer to spend a week exploring the marine life and tropical landscape, the experience will leave them with more than just a better appreciation of the term DUSHI. The food culture is a combination of the many cultures that are represented on the island nation.

Even though the Curacao floating markets might bring in produce and other food from Venezuela, Keshi Yena is not attributed to just one culture. It is truly a fusion food; the best part of what real fusion can be. Specifically, this dish has elements from the cultures that have influenced the island nation, namely Dutch, Creole, and Indonesian.

The literal translation of Keshi Yena is “stuffed cheese.” While it is rich and luscious, the dish has humble origins. The cheese was usually leftover pieces of gouda or other cheese.

Keshi Yena is a hearty cheese ball that is stuffed and baked. Tucked inside that cheese is a combination of spiced cheese, olives, capers, pickled onions, and fruit, usually raisins, prunes or plums. That ooey, gooey ball of cheese is unctuous, sometimes a flavor roller coaster, and utterly delicious. It is unlike any other dish that people associate with Caribbean cuisine.

While this dish is deeply rooted to the Curacao culture, it is a wonderful way to avoid food waste. By using various scraps, leftovers, and other items, it is almost a way to ensure nothing is wasted. It is a great example how the island nation was resourceful.

Ready to try some Keshi Yena? What other Curacao dishes would you like to try?