Food in the Netherlands

The Netherlands, a country known for its picturesque windmills, tulip fields, and cycling routes, also boasts a distinctive culinary tradition that is rich in flavor and history. Dutch cuisine, often characterized by its hearty and comforting dishes, provides a unique taste experience for travelers. From the iconic stroopwafel to the savory herring, the Netherlands offers an array of tastes that reflect its cultural heritage and agricultural bounty. Whether you're strolling through the vibrant streets of Amsterdam or exploring quaint villages, indulging in Dutch specialties is a must for any visitor. Discover the must-try dishes and gastronomic delights that the Netherlands has on its menu.

Dutch Dishes

Stamppot

Stamppot is a hearty Dutch staple, particularly popular in the colder months. It's a dish made by boiling and mashing potatoes, then mixing them with other vegetables like kale, carrots, or sauerkraut. It's often served with a side of smoked sausage known as rookworst and a dollop of gravy or mustard on top.

Hutspot

Hutspot is a variety of stamppot that merits its own mention. This comforting dish is made with potatoes, carrots, and onions that are all mashed together. The mix is usually accompanied by a piece of slow-cooked meat, such as beef or lamb. Hutspot dates back to the 16th century, making it one of the oldest Dutch recipes.

Erwtensoep (Snert)

Erwtensoep, also known as snert, is a thick pea soup that's a winter favorite in the Netherlands. Made with split peas, pork, celery, onions, and leeks, this soup is traditionally cooked for hours until it reaches the perfect consistency. It's often enjoyed with slices of rookworst and rye bread smeared with butter.

Rookworst

Rookworst, the smoked sausage mentioned earlier, deserves its own spotlight. This sausage is a key ingredient in many Dutch dishes, especially stamppot. Made from ground meat mixed with spices and then smoked, rookworst has a distinctive flavor that is beloved throughout the country.

Bitterballen

Bitterballen are a popular Dutch snack, especially at bars and parties. These deep-fried balls are crispy on the outside and filled with a gooey mixture of chopped beef, beef broth, flour, butter, herbs, and spices. They are typically served with mustard for dipping.

Haring

Hollandse Nieuwe Haring is a traditional Dutch treat involving raw herring. The fish is cleaned, preserved in a mild brine, and typically served with chopped onions and pickles. It's often eaten by holding the fish by the tail and taking a bite, a method that can be a fun challenge for tourists!

Poffertjes

Poffertjes are delightful little puffy pancakes made with yeast and buckwheat flour. They come served with a pat of butter and a generous dusting of powdered sugar. These sweet treats are a common sight at outdoor markets and fairs.

Kibbeling

Kibbeling is another Dutch favorite, consisting of battered and deep-fried chunks of white fish, often cod. It's typically served with a mayonnaise-based garlic or tartar sauce. Kibbeling is a popular street food and is commonly found at fish stalls.

Boerenkool

Boerenkool, or kale mash pot, is another type of stamppot. Made with mashed potatoes and curly kale, it's a nutritious and filling meal. Boerenkool is traditionally enjoyed with rookworst or bacon, and sometimes with a splash of vinegar or a spoonful of mustard.

Zuurkool

Zuurkool is the Dutch version of sauerkraut, and it's often incorporated into stamppot. The fermented cabbage has a tangy flavor and can be combined with mashed potatoes and served with pork or sausage. Zuurkool is a testament to the Dutch love for simple, flavorful, and hearty meals.

Dutch Desserts

Stroopwafel

Stroopwafel is a beloved Dutch confection that's gained international fame. It consists of two thin waffle cookies with a layer of sweet syrup in between. The best way to enjoy a stroopwafel is to place it over a hot cup of coffee or tea, allowing the steam to soften the syrup inside.

Appeltaart

Appeltaart, or Dutch apple pie, is a must-try dessert when visiting the Netherlands. Unlike its American counterpart, the Dutch version is deeper, with a thick crust and a filling of apples, sugar, cinnamon, and sometimes raisins or nuts. It's usually served with a dollop of whipped cream.

Speculaas

Speculaas are spiced shortcrust biscuits, traditionally baked for the feast of Sinterklaas in early December. These cookies are thin, crispy, and feature images of the festive season imprinted on them. The blend of spices used in speculaas typically includes cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, ginger, cardamom, and white pepper.

Oliebollen

Oliebollen are a traditional New Year's Eve treat in the Netherlands. These deep-fried dough balls are akin to doughnuts and often contain raisins or apple pieces. They are usually dusted with powdered sugar and best enjoyed warm for a delicious end to the year.

Boterkoek

Boterkoek, or Dutch butter cake, is a rich, dense cake that's all about the butter. It has a slightly crunchy top and a soft, chewy center, making it an ideal companion to a cup of coffee or tea. The simplicity of boterkoek is what makes it a timeless favorite in Dutch households.