Explore a range of mouth-watering Dutch specialties, from stroopwafel to stamppot, that combine traditional flavours with a modern twist.
The Netherlands, with its natural beauty and rich culture, also offers a culinary wealth that is no less interesting to explore. Typical Dutch food has its own unique characteristics, ranging from sweet snacks to hearty meals.
Each dish carries a deep history, many of which are influenced by colonial times and local cultures that have developed over centuries. In this article, we will introduce you to 10 Typical Dutch Foods that you must try if you visit this land of windmills.
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1. Stroopwafel
Stroopwafel is one of the iconic snacks originating from the Netherlands. This food consists of two layers of thin wafers filled with a thick syrup called “stroop”.
Although it looks simple, stroopwafel offers a very delicious taste with a combination of crispy textures on the outside and soft on the inside.
In the Netherlands, stroopwafel is often served with a cup of coffee or tea, and now, this food has become a favorite in various parts of the world. As a snack or dessert, stroopwafel is a perfect choice to enjoy a relaxing atmosphere.
2. Zeeland Mussels (Zeeland Mussels)
Zeeland Mussels are a seafood dish originating from the region of Zeeland, a province located in the southern part of the Netherlands. This clam is known for its dense texture and delicious meat flavor.
Typically, Zeeland Mussels are parboiled with white wine and onions, then served with crusty bread or boiled potatoes.
This dish is very popular in summer, especially during seafood celebrations or festivals. With its fresh and distinctive taste, Zeeland Mussels is a must-try dish for seafood lovers.
3. Croquettes (Croquettes)
Croquettes, known in Indonesian as kroket, are one of the favorite snacks in the Netherlands. Croquettes are made from cooked meat mixed with béchamel sauce (a thick white sauce), then shaped, rolled in breadcrumbs, and fried until golden brown.
Croquette fillings vary, from beef, chicken, to shrimp. Croquettes are often served as an appetizer or light snack that goes well with drinks.
4. Erwtensoep (Pea Soup)
Erwtensoep, or pea soup, is a thick soup that is very popular in the Netherlands, especially during the winter. Made from peas that are cooked until soft, this soup has a texture that is almost like porridge.
In addition to peas, this soup also contains pieces of beef or chicken, potatoes, leeks, carrots, and spices that give it a rich and warming taste. Erwtensoep is often served with bread and sausages, making it a filling dish that is perfect for warming up on a cold day.
5. Rijsttafel
Rijsttafel is a typical Dutch dish that originates from the Dutch colonial period in Indonesia. Literally, “rijsttafel” means “rice table”, which describes how this dish is served.
Rijsttafel consists of rice served with a variety of side dishes, such as satay, chili sauce, fried chicken, vegetables, and other spicy dishes.
Although this dish is better known in Indonesia, Rijsttafel remains one of the favorite foods in the Netherlands and is often found in restaurants in big cities such as The Hague.
6. Bitter balls
Bitterballen is a very popular snack dish in the Netherlands. It is made from ground meat seasoned with spices, such as pepper, cinnamon, and nutmeg, then coated in breadcrumbs and fried until crispy.
Bitterballen are usually served with mustard or mayonnaise sauce as a side. This dish is often served with beer or served at social events and gatherings. Its savory taste and crunchy texture make bitterballen a very popular snack.
7. Herring (Herring Fish)
Herring is a raw fish that is one of the most famous Dutch specialties. Usually, herring is 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. This dish is usually eaten as a snack at markets or street food stalls.
8. Poffertjes
Poffertjes are small cakes made from a mixture of flour, eggs, milk, and yeast. Poffertjes are cooked on a special flat pan and served with powdered sugar, butter, or syrup.
This food is very popular as a snack or dessert in the Netherlands. Poffertjes have a soft and light texture, making them delicious when eaten warm. Typically, poffertjes can be found at traditional markets or food festivals in the Netherlands.
9. Vlaai
Vlaai is a Dutch tart cake that is usually served with various toppings. Vlaai toppings can be fruits such as apples, cherries, or plums, or can also use other ingredients such as cheese or chocolate. Vlaai is very popular as a dessert or snack.
This cake has a crispy pastry dough with a sweet filling, providing a delicious combination of flavors and satisfying textures. Vlaai is often served at special events or when gathering with family and friends.
10. Stamppot
Stamppot is a traditional Dutch dish made from mashed potatoes mixed with various vegetables, such as carrots, spinach, or cabbage. It is usually served with sausages or bacon and sometimes with gravy.
Stamppot is a very filling dish and is perfect for eating in the winter, providing warmth in the cold weather. It is one of the typical Dutch dishes that is very popular among the locals, especially for dinner.
Dutch cuisine offers a variety of unique and mouth-watering flavors. From sweet dishes like stroopwafel and poffertjes to savory dishes like erwtensoep and bitterballen, each dish reflects the rich and diverse culinary culture.
Don’t forget to pick up Typical Dutch Souvenirs such as Delftware, wooden clogs, or Dutch cheese as a reminder of your visit.
Not only are they delicious, some Dutch foods also have a long history and are important symbols in the country’s culture. If you visit the Netherlands, be sure to try this specialty and have an unforgettable culinary experience.