Today, let's delve into the delectable world of Dutch cuisine as we explore the unique and flavorful dishes that define the culinary landscape of the Netherlands. From traditional treats to modern delights, join us on a gastronomic journey through the diverse and delicious offerings of Dutch food.
Netherlands food: history and facts
The culinary journey through Dutch history unveils a rich tapestry of flavors and traditions. In the 14th to 16th centuries, the elite's influence shaped a European food culture marked by regional variations. The Netherlands, with its low-lying grasslands, boasted a reliance on milk and butter, distinguishing it from regions where bacon fat or oil prevailed. Dutch butter and cheese became renowned, setting the stage for centuries of gastronomic prominence.
As the 17th century heralded the Golden Age of the Dutch Republic, a flourishing middle class gained access to a diverse array of fruits, cheeses, meats, wines, and exotic spices brought in through the Dutch Empire. The Dutch played a pivotal role in the global spice trade, influencing their cuisine. The introduction of coffee cultivation in colonies and the establishment of coffee houses reflected the Dutch East India Company's pioneering spirit. By the late 18th century, tea and coffee had become integral parts of everyday life.
The 18th to 20th centuries witnessed the introduction of the potato, transforming it into a staple food by 1800. While the wealthy enjoyed opulent meals, the working class relied on bread, potatoes, occasional herring, and minimal meat. The 19th century saw a prevalence of water and beer consumption among the poor, with jenever dominating in Catholic regions.
Interestingly, the modest and plain appearance of traditional Dutch cuisine emerged in the 20th century, influenced by the mass education system. The Huishoudschool, or housekeeping school, played a pivotal role in shaping a uniform Dutch diet, emphasizing frugality, proper table manners, and healthy eating.
Some facts:
As the 17th century heralded the Golden Age of the Dutch Republic, a flourishing middle class gained access to a diverse array of fruits, cheeses, meats, wines, and exotic spices brought in through the Dutch Empire. The Dutch played a pivotal role in the global spice trade, influencing their cuisine. The introduction of coffee cultivation in colonies and the establishment of coffee houses reflected the Dutch East India Company's pioneering spirit. By the late 18th century, tea and coffee had become integral parts of everyday life.
The 18th to 20th centuries witnessed the introduction of the potato, transforming it into a staple food by 1800. While the wealthy enjoyed opulent meals, the working class relied on bread, potatoes, occasional herring, and minimal meat. The 19th century saw a prevalence of water and beer consumption among the poor, with jenever dominating in Catholic regions.
Interestingly, the modest and plain appearance of traditional Dutch cuisine emerged in the 20th century, influenced by the mass education system. The Huishoudschool, or housekeeping school, played a pivotal role in shaping a uniform Dutch diet, emphasizing frugality, proper table manners, and healthy eating.
Some facts:
- Dutch cuisine holds a special place for pancakes, but these are not your typical thick American flapjacks or delicate French crêpes. Dutch pancakes are a perfect in-between – thinner than their American counterparts yet heartier than French crêpes. Often doused in syrup or sugar and rolled up, they are a popular treat in the Netherlands. Another unique Dutch pancake variety is the "poffertjes," small and thick pancakes served with powdered sugar and butter, particularly enjoyed during festivities like funfairs or Kings Day.
- The Dutch have their distinctive way of enjoying fries, a dish originally from Belgium. Dutch fries fall between the thickness of Belgian and French fries and are fried in sunflower oil, making them less greasy. What sets Dutch fries apart is the array of accompanying snacks, such as "frikandel," "kroket," "gehaktstaaf" (minced meat stick), and the "cheese souffle," all deep-fried alongside the fries. Additionally, a variety of sauces, with mayonnaise being a favorite, further enhance the Dutch fry experience.
- Despite its small size, the Netherlands boasts cultural diversity among its provinces, each with its own distinct regional dishes. From the flat fruit pies known as "vlaaien" in Limburg to Zeeland's "bolussen" and Groningen's "Groninger Sucadekoek," a form of sweet cake, regional specialties abound. Exploring these unique dishes adds a flavorful dimension to the culinary journey through the Netherlands.
Traditional food in the Netherlands
Traditional Dutch Delights:
- Stroopwafel: The stroopwafel, a globally beloved Dutch pastry, stands out as a unique and delightful treat. Crafted from baked batter, this waffle is sliced horizontally, with its two thin layers embracing a special sweet and sticky syrup called 'stroop.' Originating from Gouda in the late 18th or early 19th century, this ingenious creation repurposed bakery leftovers, sweetened with syrup. For an authentic experience, head to Landskroon Bakery (Singel 385) or explore the offerings at the Albert Cuyp Market in Amsterdam.
- Kroket: As a star player in the Dutch snack scene, the kroket is a deep-fried roll filled with delectable meat ragout and coated in breadcrumbs. Often referred to as a croquette, the original Dutch kroket features beef or veal, while variations include chicken satay, shrimps, goulash, or even vegetarian options. Served on sliced white bread or hamburger buns with a side of mustard, the kroket is not just a snack but a flavorful experience. Whether you choose a local snack bar, café, restaurant, or even McDonald's (McKroket), you're in for a tasty treat. Notable locations include Febo, renowned for its krokets, and premium brands like Van Dobben, Holtkamp, and Kwekkeboom.
- Patat: Dutch patat, a unique take on French fries, comes in various names like 'Friet,' 'Frites,' 'Patat,' or 'Vlaamse frieten.' Thicker than the usual French fries, they originated in northern Belgium. Often enjoyed with toppings like mayonnaise, tomato ketchup, curry, or peanut sauce, the Dutch patat experience is diverse. A famous combination known as 'patatje oorlog' (fries at war) includes mayonnaise, raw chopped onions, and peanut sauce. Visit spots like Vlaams Friteshuis Vlemminckx (Voetboogstraat 33) and Manneken Pis (Damrak 41) for some of the best patat in Amsterdam.
- Poffertjes: A delightful Dutch batter treat, poffertjes resemble miniature, fluffy pancakes. Made with yeast and buckwheat flour, they are often served with a lump of butter and powdered sugar. During winter, you can find fresh poffertjes at outdoor stands, served on small cardboard plates with a small fork. Beyond the classic toppings of butter and powdered sugar, variations include whipped cream, syrup, and strawberries.
- Bitterballen: Bitterballen, a Dutch favorite snack, is a must-try in cafés and bars, especially when paired with beer. These savory, meat-based balls feature a crunchy breadcrumb coating and a hot, flavorful filling made from beef, beef broth, butter, flour for thickening, and spices. Similar to krokets, bitterballen are bite-sized delights, traditionally served with mustard. Exercise caution, as the filling can be piping hot. Enjoy bitterballen in various establishments across Amsterdam, elevating your culinary experience with this beloved Dutch snack.
Christmas food in the Netherlands
As the festive season approaches, Dutch culinary delights take center stage, promising to captivate even the most stoic Scrooge. Here's a curated list of seasonal specialties that exude yuletide cheer and fill the air with warming, Christmassy aromas.
- Speculaas: These thin, crunchy cookies are a quintessential part of the Dutch Christmas experience. Infused with a delightful blend of spices, they offer a unique flavor reminiscent of British gingernut biscuits and Germany's anise-infused springerle cakes. While traditionally consumed during Sinterklaas, speculaas makes its appearance in Dutch supermarkets as early as October. Often shaped into festive forms or crafted to resemble iconic Dutch symbols like windmills or clogs, speculaas is a treat that embodies the holiday spirit.
- Gevulde Speculaas: This variation of speculaas, known as gevulde speculaas, adds an extra layer of indulgence. Filled with rich and flavorful ingredients, gevulde speculaas elevates the holiday cookie experience, offering a delightful twist on the classic treat.
- Glühwein: Dutch pubs usher in the Christmas season with the aromatic and peppery glühwein. This traditional mulled wine boasts a distinctive Dutch flair, incorporating spices like anise, nutmeg, and cinnamon. The warm concoction, served with a slice of orange or an aniseed star, not only wards off the winter chill but fills the air with the essence of Christmas.
- Oliebollen: Translating to "oil balls," oliebollen are akin to large, spherical doughnuts bathed in delectable molten fat and generously dusted with powdered sugar. A true Christmas indulgence, these calorific treats are irresistible. During the holiday season, dedicated food trucks pop up across the Netherlands, offering trays of freshly made oliebollen to satisfy festive cravings.
- Pepernoten: Once diverse in shapes and sizes, pepernoten have evolved into thick, penny-sized discs. Sharing a flavor profile with speculaas, these cookies boast a distinct tang and crunch. Often found in bags at Dutch stores, pepernoten may be adorned with chocolate or marzipan, adding an extra layer of sweetness to this traditional Christmas treat.
What is the typical food in the Netherlands?
Typical Dutch cuisine reflects a combination of hearty and straightforward flavors, with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. One staple is cheese, particularly varieties like Gouda and Edam, often enjoyed with bread or as part of a snack. Herring, either raw or pickled, is a popular traditional dish, often eaten with onions and pickles. Dutch cuisine also features dishes like stamppot, a hearty mashed potato and vegetable dish, and erwtensoep, a thick pea soup. Additionally, Dutch sweets such as stroopwafels (thin waffle cookies filled with caramel syrup) and poffertjes (miniature fluffy pancakes) are popular treats.
Best streets food in the Netherlands
The Netherlands boasts a rich tapestry of cultural and historic attractions, including picturesque windmills, vibrant flower fields, and charming city canals that attract millions of tourists seeking Instagram-perfect sights. However, the country's street food scene also plays a significant role in drawing visitors, offering a diverse range of affordable and tempting options.
One such street food is Stamppot, translating to "mashed pot." This traditional Dutch dish features mashed potatoes combined with various vegetables like spinach, kale, or sauerkraut. Stamppot boerenkool, made with mashed potatoes and kale, is a popular choice, and meat lovers can enhance it with bacon, smoked sausage, or cooked meat on the side. Other variations include hutspot, where potatoes are mashed with onions and carrots. Notable places to savor Stamppot include Moeders, Haesje Claes, and De Blauwe Hollander in Amsterdam.
Another delectable option is Kapsalon, a beloved Dutch street food, especially in Rotterdam. It consists of French fries topped with a choice of meat (shawarma or kebab), Gouda cheese, salad greens, and various sauces, typically garlic sauce. Vegetarians can opt for falafel as a meat substitute. The intriguing origin story links Kapsalon to a Rotterdam barber's request for fries and shawarma, giving it its unique name. Recommended places to indulge in Kapsalon include Burgertrut, El Aviva, and Jaffa Shoarma in Rotterdam.
Saucijzenbroodjes, or sausage rolls, are a popular Dutch pastry snack filled with spiced ground beef. Despite the name, there is no actual sausage inside; instead, it features small logs of seasoned ground beef. Widely available in Dutch fast food joints, street stands, and bakeries, notable places in Amsterdam include Patisserie Holtkamp, Lanskroon, and Kwekkeboom Patisserie.
Frikandel, a deep-fried skinless sausage made from minced "mystery meat," is a beloved street food in both the Netherlands and Belgium. Often served with mayonnaise on the side, this snack has gained popularity since the 1950s, with Mochi in The Hague being a renowned spot for enjoying Frikandel.
Poffertjes, small puffy pancakes topped with butter and powdered sugar, are a sweet treat loved by the Dutch. Made with yeast and buckwheat flour, they are commonly found at street carts during outdoor fairs and festivals. Popular locations in Amsterdam to enjoy Poffertjes include Albert Cuyp Market, De Vier Pilaren, and Café de Prins.
Patatje oorlog, translating to "war fries," is a favorite among drinkers. This Dutch street food features fries topped with mayonnaise, finely chopped onions, and a peanut-based satay-style sauce. Enjoyed messily from a paper cone, Patatje oorlog pairs well with a cold beer. Notable spots include Vleminckx Sausmeesters in Amsterdam or De Vlaminck in Alkmaar.
Gerookte paling, or smoked eel, is a sought-after delicacy due to its rarity and healthy content. Often eaten as a snack with a bun or cracker, it can be found at haringhuis (herring stand) or vishandel (fish shop) in Amsterdam, such as The Pantry, Frens Haringhandel, and Vishandel Molenaar.
One such street food is Stamppot, translating to "mashed pot." This traditional Dutch dish features mashed potatoes combined with various vegetables like spinach, kale, or sauerkraut. Stamppot boerenkool, made with mashed potatoes and kale, is a popular choice, and meat lovers can enhance it with bacon, smoked sausage, or cooked meat on the side. Other variations include hutspot, where potatoes are mashed with onions and carrots. Notable places to savor Stamppot include Moeders, Haesje Claes, and De Blauwe Hollander in Amsterdam.
Another delectable option is Kapsalon, a beloved Dutch street food, especially in Rotterdam. It consists of French fries topped with a choice of meat (shawarma or kebab), Gouda cheese, salad greens, and various sauces, typically garlic sauce. Vegetarians can opt for falafel as a meat substitute. The intriguing origin story links Kapsalon to a Rotterdam barber's request for fries and shawarma, giving it its unique name. Recommended places to indulge in Kapsalon include Burgertrut, El Aviva, and Jaffa Shoarma in Rotterdam.
Saucijzenbroodjes, or sausage rolls, are a popular Dutch pastry snack filled with spiced ground beef. Despite the name, there is no actual sausage inside; instead, it features small logs of seasoned ground beef. Widely available in Dutch fast food joints, street stands, and bakeries, notable places in Amsterdam include Patisserie Holtkamp, Lanskroon, and Kwekkeboom Patisserie.
Frikandel, a deep-fried skinless sausage made from minced "mystery meat," is a beloved street food in both the Netherlands and Belgium. Often served with mayonnaise on the side, this snack has gained popularity since the 1950s, with Mochi in The Hague being a renowned spot for enjoying Frikandel.
Poffertjes, small puffy pancakes topped with butter and powdered sugar, are a sweet treat loved by the Dutch. Made with yeast and buckwheat flour, they are commonly found at street carts during outdoor fairs and festivals. Popular locations in Amsterdam to enjoy Poffertjes include Albert Cuyp Market, De Vier Pilaren, and Café de Prins.
Patatje oorlog, translating to "war fries," is a favorite among drinkers. This Dutch street food features fries topped with mayonnaise, finely chopped onions, and a peanut-based satay-style sauce. Enjoyed messily from a paper cone, Patatje oorlog pairs well with a cold beer. Notable spots include Vleminckx Sausmeesters in Amsterdam or De Vlaminck in Alkmaar.
Gerookte paling, or smoked eel, is a sought-after delicacy due to its rarity and healthy content. Often eaten as a snack with a bun or cracker, it can be found at haringhuis (herring stand) or vishandel (fish shop) in Amsterdam, such as The Pantry, Frens Haringhandel, and Vishandel Molenaar.
How much do you spend in food in the Netherlands?
Discussing the cost of living in the Netherlands wouldn't be complete without exploring the delightful culinary offerings. Basic food items are reasonably priced in the country, and popular supermarkets like Albert Heijn or Plus offer everyday items at rates typically lower than specialized stores. For those budget-conscious, Aldi or Lidl provide attractive deals on various generic supermarket brands. A monthly budget of €200 to €500 for essential groceries is generally reasonable, depending on the household size.
When it comes to dining out or enjoying drinks with friends, the Netherlands offers affordable options, especially in more modest restaurants or chains. A standard evening meal in a budget-friendly restaurant may range from €15 to €20 per person, while a more upscale dining experience can cost between €40 to €90 per person. It's important to note that tips, usually around 10%, are not included in the bill. For those enjoying a beer, prices typically range from €3 to €5 for a half-liter, and a glass of house wine is approximately €5.
Coffee enthusiasts who indulge in grabbing a cup on the go should be prepared to factor in a bit more into their daily living costs. Coffee prices vary, but on average, a cappuccino can cost around €3.50 at various establishments across the Netherlands.
When it comes to dining out or enjoying drinks with friends, the Netherlands offers affordable options, especially in more modest restaurants or chains. A standard evening meal in a budget-friendly restaurant may range from €15 to €20 per person, while a more upscale dining experience can cost between €40 to €90 per person. It's important to note that tips, usually around 10%, are not included in the bill. For those enjoying a beer, prices typically range from €3 to €5 for a half-liter, and a glass of house wine is approximately €5.
Coffee enthusiasts who indulge in grabbing a cup on the go should be prepared to factor in a bit more into their daily living costs. Coffee prices vary, but on average, a cappuccino can cost around €3.50 at various establishments across the Netherlands.
