Updated: December 1, 2021
The Netherlands, a relatively small country nestled in the heart of Europe, boasts a surprisingly diverse and flavorful culinary landscape. From delectable sweet treats that melt in your mouth to savory dishes steeped in history, Dutch cuisine offers a unique and satisfying experience for every palate. This article explores ten iconic foods that you simply must try during your visit to this captivating nation. Prepare to embark on a gastronomic journey through the tastes and traditions of The Best Foods to Try in the Netherlands.
1. Bitterballen: The Quintessential Dutch Snack
Imagine a cozy Dutch "brown cafe," the air filled with the convivial chatter of locals and the clinking of glasses. In this setting, you’re almost guaranteed to find bitterballen gracing the table. These bite-sized, deep-fried spheres are more than just a snack; they are a cultural institution.
Bitterballen are essentially miniature versions of the classic Dutch kroket. The process begins with a rich and savory stew, typically made with beef, broth, flour, butter, and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices like nutmeg and parsley. This mixture is allowed to cool and thicken, then carefully rolled into small balls. Each ball is then meticulously coated in breadcrumbs, ensuring a satisfyingly crispy exterior. Finally, they’re plunged into hot oil until golden brown and irresistibly crunchy.
The result is a culinary paradox: a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth interior encased in a perfectly crisp shell. The savory meat stew filling offers a comforting and deeply satisfying flavor, while the breadcrumb coating provides a delightful textural contrast. Bitterballen are traditionally served with a tangy mustard for dipping, which cuts through the richness and adds a zesty counterpoint.
To truly experience the best bitterballen the Netherlands has to offer, venture to Amsterdam’s vibrant De Hallen food market and seek out De BallenBar. Here, Michelin-starred chef Peter Gast elevates the humble bitterbal to gourmet heights. He offers a variety of innovative flavors, but the truffle bitterbal is an absolute must-try, offering a luxurious and unforgettable taste sensation. This is certainly one of The Best Foods to Try in the Netherlands.
2. Apple Pie: A Timeless Comfort
Apple pie is a universal comfort food, but the Dutch have their own unique take on this beloved classic. Appeltaart, as it’s known in Dutch, is a dense, flavorful pie filled with a generous mixture of tart apples, sweet currants, warming cinnamon, and a hint of lemon zest. The crust is typically thick and crumbly, adding a rustic touch to the overall experience.
What sets Dutch apple pie apart is its rich, complex flavor profile. The combination of tart apples, sweet currants, and aromatic spices creates a symphony of tastes that dance on the palate. The thick, buttery crust provides a sturdy foundation for the filling, while the optional (but highly recommended) dollop of whipped cream adds a touch of indulgence.
For a truly authentic experience, visit Café Papeneiland in Amsterdam. This charming eatery, steeped in history and local character, is renowned for its apple pie, a recipe passed down through generations. The secret lies in the quality of the ingredients and the meticulous attention to detail, resulting in a pie that is both comforting and unforgettable. This is one of The Best Foods to Try in the Netherlands that truly represents home-style cooking.
3. Stroopwafel: A Caramel Lover’s Dream
The stroopwafel is arguably one of the most iconic and beloved Dutch treats. These thin, crispy waffles are joined together by a layer of sticky, sweet caramel syrup, creating a symphony of textures and flavors that is simply irresistible.
The process of making stroopwafels is a fascinating blend of tradition and craftsmanship. A thin batter, similar to that used for waffles, is pressed between two hot iron plates, creating a delicate, crispy wafer. While still warm, the waffle is carefully sliced in half, and a generous layer of caramel syrup is spread between the two halves. The syrup, made from brown sugar, butter, and cinnamon, is the heart and soul of the stroopwafel, providing its signature sweetness and gooey texture.
One of the most popular ways to enjoy a stroopwafel is to place it on top of a hot cup of coffee or tea. The steam from the beverage warms the caramel, making it even more gooey and fragrant. As the stroopwafel softens, it releases its sweet aroma, creating a truly sensory experience.
Stroopwafels are believed to have originated in Gouda, a city famous for its cheese. To experience the freshest and most authentic stroopwafels, avoid the pre-packaged versions found in supermarkets and head straight to the Syrup Waffle Factory in Gouda. Here, you can watch as skilled artisans craft these delectable treats right before your eyes, ensuring a warm, gooey, and unforgettable experience.
4. Dutch Pancakes (Pannekoeken): A Versatile Delight
Dutch pancakes, or pannekoeken, are large, thin pancakes similar to French crepes. However, unlike crepes, pannekoeken are typically thicker and more substantial, making them a satisfying meal in themselves. They come in a wide variety of sweet and savory flavors, catering to every taste and preference.
Sweet pannekoeken are often topped with classic combinations like apple and cinnamon sugar, Nutella and banana, or fresh berries and whipped cream. Savory options include cheese and ham, mushrooms and onions, or even bacon and syrup. The possibilities are endless, allowing for endless culinary creativity.
For a truly memorable pannekoeken experience, visit Oudt Leyden in Leiden. This charming pancake house has earned a reputation as one of the best in the Netherlands, thanks to its commitment to quality ingredients and traditional recipes. Whether you’re craving a sweet treat or a savory meal, Oudt Leyden is sure to satisfy your pannekoeken cravings.
5. Dutch Codfish: Freshness from the North Sea
With its extensive coastline along the North Sea, the Netherlands has a rich maritime heritage and a strong tradition of fishing. Fresh fish is a staple of Dutch cuisine, and codfish is one of the most popular choices.
Dutch codfish is known for its delicate flavor and flaky texture. It can be prepared in a variety of ways, from simple grilled fillets to elaborate seafood stews. The key to enjoying the best Dutch codfish is to source it fresh from a reputable fishmonger or restaurant.
For a truly exceptional seafood experience, head to the island of Texel, where you can sample some of the freshest fish in the country. The island is also known for its Texel lamb, which is prized for its tender texture and delicate flavor. At Bij Jef, a Michelin-starred restaurant on the island, you can savor expertly prepared dishes featuring local ingredients from both land and sea.
6. Poffertjes: Miniature Pancake Perfection
Poffertjes are small, puffed-up pancakes that are a beloved Dutch treat. These miniature delights are light, spongy, and subtly sweet, making them the perfect snack or dessert. They are traditionally served with a generous dusting of powdered sugar and a pat of melting butter.
Poffertjes are often sold at markets, fairs, and festivals throughout the Netherlands. You can also find them in many restaurants and supermarkets. However, for a truly authentic experience, seek out a traditional poffertjes stall.
One such stall, located in a small park an hour outside of Amsterdam, has been serving these sweet treats since the 1800s. Open from March to early September, this charming stall offers a taste of Dutch history and a truly delightful poffertjes experience.
7. Fries (Frites) and Sauce: A National Obsession
The Dutch love their fries, or frites, as they are known in Dutch. These thick-cut fries are typically served in a paper cone and smothered in a variety of sauces. While ketchup and mayonnaise are common choices, the Dutch have a particular fondness for frietsaus, a lighter, sweeter version of mayonnaise.
At Dapp Frietwinkel in Utrecht, you can enjoy fresh, organic frites cooked to perfection. Choose from a selection of sauces, including an egg-free mayo for vegans and an ever-changing seasonal sauce. This is not your average fast-food experience; it’s a celebration of the humble fry.
8. Herring: A Taste of the Sea
Herring is another gift from the North Sea and a staple of Dutch cuisine. Traditionally, it’s served raw with chopped onions and pickles. This might sound intimidating to some, but the fresh, briny flavor of the herring is surprisingly delicious.
Schmidt Zeevis, a renowned fish supplier that provides fresh fish to restaurants across the country, is a great place to sample Dutch herring. Visit their lunch corner for a quick and tasty bite, or take some seafood home from their delicatessen to cook yourself.
9. Hutspot: A Hearty Winter Stew
Hutspot is a traditional Dutch stew made from potatoes, carrots, and onions. It’s a hearty and comforting dish that is typically eaten during the winter months. Sometimes, meat, such as smoked sausage, is added to the stew for extra flavor.
Hutspot has a fascinating history. It is said to have originated in Leiden during the Eighty Years’ War, when the Dutch discovered a stew that the fleeing Spanish soldiers had left behind. The original stew was made from parsnips, but today it is typically potato-based.
During the winter, visit Roberto’s in Leiden to sample this traditional Dutch stew. You can also try stamppot, a similar dish consisting of mashed potatoes with various vegetables like kale and sauerkraut.
10. Oliebollen: A Festive Treat
Oliebollen are deep-fried dough balls with currants, dusted with powdered sugar. They are traditionally eaten warm on New Year’s Eve, but street vendors and bakeries start serving these sweet treats during the winter festive period.
Get your oliebollen from Hollandse Gebakkraam, a friendly vendor on Marie Heinekenplein, near the famous Albert Cuyp Market in Amsterdam. These warm, sweet, and festive treats are the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season in the Netherlands. Trying The Best Foods to Try in the Netherlands is an important thing to do.
The Best Foods to Try in the Netherlands offer a diverse and delicious culinary adventure, reflecting the country’s rich history and cultural traditions. From sweet treats like stroopwafels and poffertjes to savory dishes like bitterballen and herring, there is something to satisfy every palate. So, on your next trip to the Netherlands, be sure to indulge in these iconic foods and experience the true taste of Dutch cuisine.
