Enjoy a variety of mouth-watering Dutch specialties, from sweet stroopwafels to hearty stamppot, reflecting the unique and delicious culinary richness of the Netherlands.
The Netherlands, renowned for its culture and stunning natural scenery, also serves up a variety of delicious dishes that are worth trying. Dutch cuisine offers a variety of flavors, from sweet to savory, and often reflects their long history and cultural traditions.
From sweet treats to hearty meals, every Dutch specialty has an interesting story to tell. This article will take you through 10 mouth-watering Dutch Specialties that will make your visit to the land of windmills even more unforgettable.
1. Stroopwafel
Stroopwafel is a sweet treat that is very popular in the Netherlands. Consisting of two thin wafer layers filled with thick stroop syrup, stroopwafel offers the perfect combination of crunchy texture and smooth syrup.
Often served with tea or coffee, it has now become a favorite around the world. As a dessert or light snack, stroopwafel is perfect to enjoy during your free time.
2. Zeeland Mussels (Zeeland Mussels)
Zeeland Mussels, or Zeeland mussels, are one of the most famous seafood dishes in the Netherlands. This clam is known for its delicious meat and firm texture. Cooked with white wine and onions, Zeeland Mussels are usually served with crusty bread or boiled potatoes.
This dish is very popular during the summer and is usually served at seafood festivals or events. With its fresh and distinctive taste, Zeeland Mussels are a must-try dish, especially for seafood lovers.
3. Croquettes (Croquettes)
Croquettes, or kroket in Indonesian, are a savory snack that is very popular in the Netherlands. Made from cooked meat mixed with béchamel sauce (a thick white sauce), croquettes are shaped, rolled in breadcrumbs, and fried until golden brown.
Croquettes are filled with various things, from beef, chicken, to shrimp. Croquettes are often served as a delicious appetizer or snack, especially when enjoyed with a refreshing drink.
4. Erwtensoep (Pea Soup)
Erwtensoep is a typical Dutch soup made from peas that are cooked until soft. This thick soup, which has a texture that is almost like porridge, is usually yellowish green or brown in color. Erwtensoep also contains pieces of beef or chicken, potatoes, leeks, and carrots.
This dish is very popular in winter and is usually served with bread and sausages. Erwtensoep is a food that warms the body and is perfect to enjoy in cold weather.
5. Rijsttafel
Rijsttafel is a dish that has a long history associated with Dutch colonialism in Indonesia. Literally, “rijsttafel” means “rice table”, and the dish consists of rice served with various side dishes such as satay, sambal, fried chicken, vegetables, and other spicy dishes.
Although more famous in Indonesia, rijsttafel remains a favorite dish in the Netherlands, especially in restaurants serving Indonesian cuisine. Rijsttafel is a dish full of flavor and is perfect to enjoy with friends or family.
6. Bitter balls
Bitterballen are savory snacks made from ground meat seasoned with spices, then coated in breadcrumbs and fried until crispy. Its savory taste and crunchy texture make bitterballen a very popular snack in the Netherlands.
This dish is usually served with mustard or mayonnaise sauce, and is often served with beer at social events or gatherings. Bitterballen are the perfect snack choice when you want to enjoy a delicious snack.
7. Herring (Herring Fish)
Haring is a typical Dutch dish made from raw herring served with white bread and sliced onions. In the Netherlands, there is a tradition of eating herring by dipping the fish directly into the mouth or adding it to bread.
Herring is known to have a strong and sharp taste, so for some people this can be an interesting culinary experience. Herring is usually sold in markets or street food stalls, and is a very popular snack among the Dutch.
8. Poffertjes
Poffertjes are small cakes made from wheat flour, eggs, milk, and yeast. They are cooked on a special flat pan that gives each dough a small round shape. Poffertjes are served with powdered sugar, butter, or syrup, and are very popular as a snack or dessert in the Netherlands.
This cake has a soft and light texture, making it very delicious when eaten warm. Poffertjes are often found at traditional markets or during food festivals in the Netherlands.
9. Vlaai
Vlaai is a Dutch tart usually served with various toppings, such as fruits, cheese, or chocolate. This cake has a crispy pastry dough and a sweet filling, giving a very delicious combination of flavors.
Vlaai is often served as a dessert or snack, and is very popular among the Dutch people. Typically, vlaai is served at special occasions or when gathering with friends and family, making it a cake that is always awaited.
10. Stamppot
Stamppot is a traditional Dutch dish made from mashed potatoes mixed with various vegetables, such as carrots, spinach, or cabbage. This dish is very filling and is usually served with sausages or bacon.
Stamppot is a very popular dish in the winter, because it can provide warmth and comfort in the cold weather. This food is the perfect choice for a family dinner after a long day of activities.
Dutch cuisine offers a variety of mouth-watering flavors and reflects the country’s rich culture and long tradition. From sweet treats like stroopwafel and poffertjes to hearty meals like erwtensoep and stamppot, each dish carries with it a deep memory and story.
While savoring these flavors, don’t forget to pick up Typical Dutch Souvenirs such as tulip-themed items, Delftware pottery, or a piece of Edam cheese to take home.
If you’re visiting the Netherlands, don’t miss the chance to try these specialties and experience their unique delights. Dutch cuisine will surely add to your experience of exploring this enchanting country.
