Trying to figure out what to eat in the Netherlands? One of the best ways to get to know a country is through its food. You learn about the history, culture, and preferences of people based on the things they eat every day. And, if you’re lucky, the process tends to be pretty delicious. I’ve written a list of Dutch foods to try while you’re in the Netherlands
1. Stroopwafel
This popular Dutch food is made from two thin layers of baked dough—like very skinny waffles—stuck together with caramel syrup. I recommend checking out Van Wonderen Stroopwafels at this spot, you won’t find just ordinary stroopwafels. In this famous shop which is always packed by tourists and locals, you can choose between an amazing range of stroopwafels filled with chocolate, or hazelnut, or smarties… heaven for a sweet tooth like me! Also the perfect prop for an adorable Instagram photo. Be sure to also check out my guide to the most Instagram worthy spots in Amsterdam.
This popular Dutch food is made from two thin layers of baked dough—like very skinny waffles—stuck together with caramel syrup. I recommend checking out Van Wonderen Stroopwafels at this spot, you won’t find just ordinary stroopwafels. In this famous shop which is always packed by tourists and locals, you can choose between an amazing range of stroopwafels filled with chocolate, or hazelnut, or smarties… heaven for a sweet tooth like me! Also the perfect prop for an adorable Instagram photo. Be sure to also check out my guide to the most Instagram worthy spots in Amsterdam.
2. Bitterballen
Bitterballen is a classic food that you’ll find at most bars around the Netherlands. Made with beef or veal, bitterballen are typically served with mustard.
Just be careful when biting into a bitterballen as they’re often very hot inside and you might burn your tongue if you don’t take a small nibble enough to let the steam out first. You can find them at most Dutch bars that serve appetizers, so just ask your bartender!
3.Gouda cheese
Also originally related to the city of Gouda is…well, Gouda. This yellow cheese, a staple of Dutch cuisine, is made from cow’s milk and can be aged anywhere from about 4 weeks to over a year. The younger versions tend to be very mild, and older versions may take on sweet, nutty flavors. Smoked Gouda is also very popular.
4. Dutch apple pie
Apple pie is the quintessential Dutch dessert. It’s been part of the menu in the Netherlands for 500 years, making it one of the oldest Dutch foods.
Dutch apple pies are similar to American apple pies, but they’re not as sweet, and the apples are densely stacked. I recommend checking out Winkel 43.
5. Poffertjes
Poffertjes, fluffy mini pancakes that are served with a mess of powdered sugar and butter. To make them, batter—typically including yeast and buckwheat flour—is poured over a hot cast-iron pan with shallow half-spherical molds, à la Japan’s takoyaki, and then each little pancake is flipped. Check out Poffertjes Albert Cuyp.
6. Pannekoeken (large pancakes)
Pannekoeken better known as Dutch pancakes – are a Dutch delicacy. What truly sets Dutch pancakes apart from our maple syrup laden American pancakes is the time they are served. More often a dinner dish, most pancake restaurants in Amsterdam do not even open until well after breakfast time! Check out Pancakes.
Pannekoeken better known as Dutch pancakes – are a Dutch delicacy. What truly sets Dutch pancakes apart from our maple syrup laden American pancakes is the time they are served. More often a dinner dish, most pancake restaurants in Amsterdam do not even open until well after breakfast time! Check out Pancakes.
7. DROP (LIQORICE)
liquorice is a near obsession for the Dutch. Salty, sweet, round; shaped like cats, moons, coins and fish, there are hundreds of varieties of sweet, sour and salty ‘black magic’ from which to choose. The best place to start is favorite HEMA offering numerous versions.
8. Hagelslag
I didn’t know about hagelslag before visiting Amsterdam, but my local friend quickly filled me in on this Dutch food. Hagelslag is Basically chocolate sprinkles served on white bread with butter, now that’s a sweet start to your day.
9. SPECULAAS
Speculaas is a delicious type of biscuit with a rich taste as it is usually cooked with a lot of spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cardamon and white pepper. Check out Stach Bakery.
10. Genever
Genever is actually a drink, but had to make it on this list of Dutch delicacies. Genever is the traditional spirit of the Netherlands. This clear liquor is made from distilled malt wine that is flavored with juniper and spices. The result is similar to gin but smoother with a malty flavor and a hint of sweetness.
11. Chips
These are no ordinary french fries. Manneken Pis, Named the best fries in Holland. Dash with your cone of piping hot lovelies down to the canal before the sauce runs down your arm. We were ambitious and got the large size, and it was bigger than my head.
