Page 12 - AHATA

a8 local
Saturday 5 OctOber 2024

Discover Infini: Celebrating Aruban Culinary Heritage

Through Our Eight-Course Chef’s Table Experience

cal importance inspired the creation of our process is intensive, requiring careful atten-
final course, bringing the past into the pres- tion to detail and time to develop the cake’s
ent through food. rich, intense flavours.
Once baked, the cake is soaked again in al-
The cultural significance of Bolo Pretu cohol, further enhancing its depth and com-
Traditionally, Bolo Pretu has been a highlight plexity. The result is a dessert that is meant to
at many of Aruba's significant ceremonies, be enjoyed in small portions due to its power-
from religious celebrations to family gather- ful taste and the high alcohol content. Each
At Infini, we take pride in offering a unique ings. It is often presented at weddings and bite offers a journey through layers of flavour,
dining experience that goes beyond just a anniversaries, symbolising prosperity, unity, from the sweetness of the dried fruit to the
meal. Our eight-course chef’s table menu is a and festivity. Its dark, rich texture and robust warmth of the rum.
journey through the rich and diverse flavours flavour come from a unique blend of ingredi-
of Aruba, inspired by our island’s culinary ents, including fruits soaked in alcohol, which A celebration of Aruba's culinary heritage at
heritage and enhanced by locally-sourced was originally a method of preserving the Infini
ingredients. The highlight of our menu is the cake for extended periods—sometimes even At Infini, our eight-course chef's table menu
final course, Bolo Pretu and Wortel, a modern years. offers a true reflection of Aruba’s diverse culi-
interpretation of a traditional Aruban dessert In colonial times, the cake was seen as a sign nary heritage. The final course, Bolo Pretu and
paired with carrots, walnut, cream cheese, of wealth, reserved for those who could af- Wortel, is a tribute to the island’s rich history,
and the famous black cake. This dish not ford its laborious preparation and costly in- showcasing how food can transcend gen-
only reflects our dedication to supporting lo- gredients. Over the centuries, however, it erations and bring people together. Through
cal producers but also honours a longstand- has evolved into a beloved part of everyday our dedication to using local ingredients and
ing tradition that holds deep significance in Aruban culinary traditions. The recipe is often preserving traditional recipes, we create a
Aruban culture. passed down through families, each genera- dining experience that is as meaningful as it
tion adding its personal touch while keeping is delicious.
The story behind Bolo Pretu: Aruba’s tradition- the core elements that make Bolo Pretu dis-
al black cake tinctive. For those looking to explore Aruba’s culinary
The dish, Bolo Pretu, or black cake, is much past and present in a single meal, Infini pro-
more than a simple dessert. Deeply rooted in The ingredients that make Bolo Pretu unique vides the perfect opportunity. Each course is
Aruban and Caribbean history, it is a symbol At the heart of Bolo Pretu is its complex com- crafted with care, and the story behind Bolo
of celebration, served during weddings, an- bination of dried fruits, which are typically Pretu ensures that our guests leave with more
niversaries, and other special events. Its sig- soaked for months in rum or cherry cordial. than just a taste of the island—they leave with
nificance lies not only in its rich flavours but These include cherries, dates, figs, raisins, and a deeper understanding of its cultural roots.
also in its connection to the island’s cultural prunes, along with an assortment of nuts, To experience this unique blend of history
heritage, influenced by African, European, such as walnuts, to give the cake its signature and flavour, you can reserve a table at Infini
and indigenous traditions. At Infini, this histori- dense and moist texture. The preparation by calling 297-699 39 82.q

Prohibited by law: leaving the island with seashells, white sand or corals

(Oranjestad)—Often times, of Aruba. This is to protect before leaving. This is surely and corals from our shores
the customs department at our environment. The high not a pleasant experience and stop buying or accept-
the airport intercepts many number of seashells, coral for the tourist. This also leads ing these from local sellers or
tourists leaving the island and amount of sand con- to a negative reaction which companies.
with seashells, white sand fiscated is very strange and can put our tourism in a neg-
and/or corals as souvenirs. it is suspected that our own ative light. We want our future genera-
locals are the ones selling tions and visitors to enjoy the
Conforming to the interna- these to the tourists, which Though we love to accom- beauty of our beaches, shells
tional treaty of CITES and our is unacceptable. modate our visitors, let’s all and corals in a sustainable
local law which protects our give nature the respect it way, without destroying or
Flora & Fauna, it is absolutely Upon confiscation at the deserves by protecting our disrupting the Aruban eco-
prohibited to take any sea- airport, you can also face a environment. Stop collect- system. Help us protect what
shell, sand and coral outside fine that they have to pay ing seashells, white sand is ours!q