ARUBA Ayaca is a vibrant dish that not only delights the taste buds but also provides a wealth of essential vitamins and antioxidants. Packed with Vitamin A, found in ingredients like sweet peppers and vegetables, Ayaca supports healthy vision, immune function, and skin health. The dish is also rich in Vitamin C from bell peppers, tomatoes, and other vegetables, which boosts immunity, promotes skin health, and aids in wound healing. Vitamin B6, present in meats and vegetables, plays a key role in brain function, energy production, and protein metabolism, while Vitamin E from nuts and seeds acts as a powerful antioxidant, protecting the body from oxidative stress and supporting heart health.

In addition to these vitamins, Ayaca is loaded with antioxidants such as flavonoids from onions and garlic, which offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits, helping to protect the body from chronic diseases. The colorful vegetables in the dish also provide carotenoids, which help protect the skin and eyes from oxidative damage. Moreover, polyphenols found in herbs like cilantro and thyme work to fight free radicals and support overall health. Together, these nutrients make ARUBA Ayaca not only a flavorful dish but also a nourishing one, offering a delicious way to benefit from nature’s health-boosting properties.

Ingredients:

For the Dough:

- 2 cups cornmeal

- 1 cup all-purpose flour

- 1 cup butter, softened

- 1 cup chicken broth

- 1 cup achiote oil (annatto-infused oil)

- Salt to taste

For the Filling:

- 1 lb boneless chicken, cooked and shredded

- 1 cup pork, cooked and shredded

- 1 cup beef, cooked and shredded

- 1 cup raisins

- 1 cup pitted olives, sliced

- 1 cup capers

- 1 cup prunes, pitted and chopped

- 1 cup chickpeas, cooked

- 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, green beans), cooked

- 1 cup achiote oil

- 1 cup chicken broth

- Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Dough:

1- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, all-purpose flour, softened butter, achiote oil, and salt.

2- Gradually add chicken broth while stirring until a smooth dough forms.

3- The consistency should be similar to a thick pancake batter. Adjust with more broth or flour if needed.

2. Prepare the Filling:

1- In a large skillet, heat achiote oil over medium heat.

2- Add the shredded chicken, pork, and beef. Cook until browned.

3- Stir in the raisins, olives, capers, prunes, chickpeas, and mixed vegetables.

4- Pour in chicken broth, season with salt and pepper, and simmer until the mixture thickens.

3. Assemble the Ayaca:

1- Lay out banana leaves or parchment paper. Place a portion of the dough in the center and spread it out thinly, leaving room for the filling.

2- Add a generous portion of the filling to the center of the dough.

3- Fold the banana leaves or parchment paper over the filling, creating a rectangular or square package.

4- Tie the Ayaca with kitchen twine to secure it.

4. Steam the Ayaca:

1- Arrange the Ayacas in a large steamer.

2- Steam for 1 to 1.5 hours or until the dough is cooked and has a firm consistency.

5. Serve:

1- Allow the Ayacas to cool slightly before unwrapping.

2- Serve warm, and enjoy the flavors of this Aruban delight!

Ayaca is often enjoyed during festive occasions and holidays in Aruba. The combination of savory and sweet flavors, along with the unique touch of achiote oil, makes this dish a true representation of the island's culinary heritage.

Frequently Asked Questions :

Can Ayaca be made in a vegetarian or meat-free version?

- Yes! Ayaca can be easily adapted to suit vegetarian or vegan diets. Simply replace the meats (chicken, pork, and beef) with plant-based protein sources, such as tofu, tempeh, or additional legumes like lentils or black beans. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the dish fully plant-based.

What are some ingredient substitutes if I can't find specific ingredients like achiote oil or banana leaves?

- If achiote oil is unavailable, you can substitute it with regular vegetable oil and a small amount of turmeric or paprika to give the dish the desired color and flavor. If banana leaves are difficult to find, parchment paper can be used for wrapping, though banana leaves provide an authentic aroma and flavor when steaming.

How can I store Ayaca? Can it be frozen?

- Ayaca can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, Ayaca can be frozen. Simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe bag. To reheat, steam it for 20-30 minutes until heated through. This helps retain its texture and flavor.

What are the best ways to reheat Ayaca after freezing?

- To reheat frozen Ayaca, the best method is to steam it for 20-30 minutes, as steaming helps retain its moisture and prevents the dough from becoming dry. Alternatively, you can also heat it in the microwave, but steaming is recommended for optimal results.

In which occasions or celebrations is Ayaca traditionally served in Aruba?

- Ayaca is typically served during festive occasions and holidays in Aruba, particularly during Christmas and New Year's celebrations. It is often made in large batches and shared with family and friends. It’s also a popular dish at other gatherings and celebrations, representing the rich culinary heritage of Aruba.

Are there healthier alternatives to ingredients like butter or meat in Ayaca?

- Yes, for a healthier version of Ayaca, you can replace butter with olive oil or coconut oil, which are healthier fat sources. You can also use leaner cuts of meat or increase the amount of vegetables and legumes in the filling to reduce the fat content. Additionally, using low-sodium broth and limiting the amount of added salt can make the dish more heart-healthy.

Nutritional Values

1. Cornmeal (2 cups)

• Calories: 440 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 88 g
• Protein: 8 g
• Fat: 4 g
• Sodium: 0 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Vitamins: B-vitamins (B1, B3, B6)
• Minerals: Iron, magnesium, phosphorus
• Nutritional Benefit: Provides energy, dietary fiber, and magnesium for muscle and bone health.

2. All-Purpose Flour (1 cup)

• Calories: 455 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 95 g
• Protein: 13 g
• Fat: 1 g
• Sodium: 1 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Vitamins: B-vitamins (B1, B2, B3, folate)
• Minerals: Iron, calcium
• Nutritional Benefit: Good source of energy and protein, with iron for red blood cell production.

3. Butter, Softened (1 cup)

• Calories: 810 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 1 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Fat: 92 g
• Sodium: 820 mg
• Cholesterol: 250 mg
• Vitamins: Vitamin A, Vitamin D, Vitamin E
• Minerals: Calcium, phosphorus
• Nutritional Benefit: Rich in fats and fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E), supports vision, immune function, and bone health.

4. Chicken Broth (1 cup)

• Calories: 15 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 1 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Fat: 1 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Cholesterol: 5 mg
• Vitamins: B-vitamins (B3, B6)
• Minerals: Sodium, potassium, calcium
• Nutritional Benefit: Hydrates and provides electrolytes and amino acids for muscle recovery.

5. Achiote Oil (1 cup)

• Calories: 200 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 0 g
• Protein: 0 g
• Fat: 22 g
• Sodium: 0 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Vitamins: Vitamin E, Beta-carotene
• Minerals: None
• Nutritional Benefit: Rich in antioxidants (beta-carotene), supports skin and eye health, and provides healthy fats.

6. Salt (to taste)

• Calories: Negligible
• Carbohydrates: 0 g
• Protein: 0 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Sodium: 2,300 mg (per 1 teaspoon)
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Vitamins: None
• Minerals: Sodium
• Nutritional Benefit: Enhances flavor, supports electrolyte balance, but should be used in moderation to avoid high blood pressure.

7. Boneless Chicken, Cooked and Shredded (1 lb)

• Calories: 440 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 0 g
• Protein: 96 g
• Fat: 9 g
• Sodium: 180 mg
• Cholesterol: 80 mg
• Vitamins: Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12
• Minerals: Iron, phosphorus, selenium
• Nutritional Benefit: Excellent protein source for muscle growth, immune function, and metabolism support.

8. Pork, Cooked and Shredded (1 cup)

• Calories: 280 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 0 g
• Protein: 22 g
• Fat: 20 g
• Sodium: 50 mg
• Cholesterol: 65 mg
• Vitamins: Vitamin B1 (Thiamine), Vitamin B6
• Minerals: Iron, zinc, selenium
• Nutritional Benefit: Provides protein and B-vitamins for muscle repair and energy, with zinc for immune health.

9. Beef, Cooked and Shredded (1 cup)

• Calories: 400 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 0 g
• Protein: 50 g
• Fat: 23 g
• Sodium: 70 mg
• Cholesterol: 85 mg
• Vitamins: Vitamin B12, Vitamin B6
• Minerals: Iron, zinc, phosphorus
• Nutritional Benefit: High in protein, iron, and zinc, supporting muscle growth, oxygen transport, and immune function.

10. Raisins (1 cup)

• Calories: 430 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 115 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Sodium: 10 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Vitamins: Vitamin B6, Vitamin C
• Minerals: Iron, potassium, magnesium
• Nutritional Benefit: Rich in antioxidants and potassium for heart health, with fiber supporting digestion.

11. Pitted Olives, Sliced (1 cup)

• Calories: 150 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 8 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Fat: 14 g
• Sodium: 750 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Vitamins: Vitamin E
• Minerals: Iron, calcium, magnesium
• Nutritional Benefit: Healthy fats, antioxidants for heart health, and oleic acid to reduce inflammation.

12. Capers (1 cup)

• Calories: 25 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 5 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Sodium: 650 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Vitamins: Vitamin K, Vitamin A
• Minerals: Calcium, iron
• Nutritional Benefit: Low-calorie source of calcium and iron, promoting bone health and supporting red blood cell production.

13. Prunes, Pitted and Chopped (1 cup)

• Calories: 418 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 111 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Sodium: 5 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Vitamins: Vitamin K, Vitamin A
• Minerals: Potassium, iron
• Nutritional Benefit: Rich in fiber for digestive health, antioxidants for heart health, and potassium for blood pressure regulation.

14. Chickpeas, Cooked (1 cup)

• Calories: 269 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Protein: 15 g
• Fat: 4 g
• Sodium: 11 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Vitamins: Vitamin B6, Folate
• Minerals: Iron, magnesium, zinc
• Nutritional Benefit: High in protein, fiber, and minerals that stabilize blood sugar, support heart health, and aid in muscle recovery.

15. Mixed Vegetables (1 cup, peas, carrots, green beans, cooked)

• Calories: 120 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 27 g
• Protein: 4 g
• Fat: 1 g
• Sodium: 50 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Vitamins: Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin K
• Minerals: Potassium, magnesium
• Nutritional Benefit: Rich in vitamins and fiber to improve immunity, skin health, and digestive health.

16. Achiote Oil (1 cup)

• Calories: 200 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 0 g
• Protein: 0 g
• Fat: 22 g
• Sodium: 0 mg
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Vitamins: Vitamin E, Beta-carotene
• Minerals: None
• Nutritional Benefit: Rich in antioxidants (beta-carotene), supports skin and eye health, and provides heart-healthy fats.

17. Chicken Broth (1 cup)

• Calories: 15 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 1 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Fat: 1 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Cholesterol: 5 mg
• Vitamins: B-vitamins (B3, B6)
• Minerals: Sodium, potassium, calcium
• Nutritional Benefit: Provides electrolytes and amino acids for muscle recovery and hydration.

18. Salt and Pepper (to taste)

• Calories: Negligible
• Carbohydrates: 0 g
• Protein: 0 g
• Fat: 0 g
• Sodium: 2,300 mg (per teaspoon of salt)
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Vitamins: None
• Minerals: Sodium (from salt), Piperine (from pepper)
• Nutritional Benefit: Enhances flavor, supports electrolyte balance, and contains piperine from pepper for improved digestion.