The Netherlands is a treasure trove of culinary delights, and its cuisine is no exception. While many associate the country with cheese and wooden shoes, there’s so much more to explore. The rolling hills, lakes, and picturesque landscape are just the beginning. But it’s the food that truly sets this country apart. The Dutch take great pride in their cuisine, and for good reason – every bite is a taste sensation.
From traditional favorites like Frikandellen, Stamppot, Stroopwafels, and Bitterballen to innovative creations, there’s an endless array of flavors to discover. And the best part? There’s no shortage of delicious treats to indulge in. Whether you’re visiting Amsterdam or exploring beyond, the Netherlands has something for everyone. So why not try something new this week and embark on a gastronomic adventure that will leave you wanting more?
Poffertjes (Dutch Mini Pancakes)
Poffertjes, a quintessential Dutch delight, are delectable pancakes born from yeast-risen batter and fried to perfection in a specialized pan. Their allure lies not only in their sweet, fluffy, and scrumptious nature but also in the way they’re typically served with a generous dusting of powdered sugar. The result is a pancake transformed into a sugary cloud, an indulgent treat that’s sure to delight even the most discerning palate.
Erwtensoep (Dutch Split Pea Soup)
Savoring a warm bowl of Dutch Split Pea Soup is like stepping into a cozy cabin on a chilly day, surrounded by the comforting aromas and flavors that evoke feelings of warmth and tranquility. The rich, hearty taste is expertly balanced by the subtle sweetness from the potatoes, which skillfully cuts through the savory notes, leaving you craving another spoonful.
To fully appreciate its delightful complexity, we suggest serving this soup with a crusty or sourdough bread to absorb every last drop of its delectable goodness.
Matjesherring Green Bean Salad
This Dutch New Herring with Green Bean Salad recipe is a symphony of flavors and textures, all harmoniously coming together. The star of the show is the tangy green bean salad, perfectly balanced by the richness of salty fish and the satisfying crunch of potatoes. To add an extra layer of interest, thinly sliced vegetables are sprinkled throughout, providing delightful contrasts in texture and visual appeal. It’s a culinary experience that’s like attending a vibrant party on your plate.
Kaassoufflé (Dutch Fried Cheese Pastries)
Indulge in the sheer delight of these fried cheese pastries, where every morsel is a celebration of rich flavors. At first, you’ll be captivated by the golden-brown pastry’s textural contrast – crispy on the outside and yielding to a soft, buttery interior. As you take your first bite, the creamy cheese filling will melt effortlessly, releasing a velvety smoothness that coats your taste buds.
The crowning glory is the satisfying crunch from the sprinkle of breadcrumbs on top, adding a delightful dimension to each mouthful. With its airy lightness and robust flavor profile, it’s little wonder these pastries are a culinary nirvana in every bite.
Ontbijtkoek (Dutch Breakfast Cake)
Kickstart your day with a deliciously rich and buttery Ontbijtkoek experience! This Dutch-inspired treat is perfectly balanced with just the right amount of sweetness, boasting a moist and fluffy texture akin to cinnamon rolls. What sets it apart is its lower sugar content, making it an excellent choice for a satisfying breakfast or dessert that can be easily enjoyed by hand, slathered in butter, or paired with your favorite jam.
Dutch Stroopwafels
The humble waffle takes on a new dimension when transformed into a Dutch Stroopwafel. The traditional sweet and spongy treat is elevated to new heights by the incorporation of caramelized sugar syrup, imparting a rich, toffee-like flavor to each bite. This sweetness is expertly balanced with just the right amount of sugary goodness, making it impossible to resist going back for more.
When paired with the bold flavors of coffee and a hint of salt, the Dutch Stroopwafel becomes an indulgent treat that will leave you craving more.
Boerenkaas Soep (Dutch Farmer’s Cheese Soup)
We’re thrilled to share this recipe for Boerenkaas Soep, a delightful Dutch Farmer’s Cheese Soup that’s sure to become a favorite. The star of the show is creamy Gouda cheese, which adds a tangy flavor and velvety texture that will leave you wanting more. As you take a spoonful, you’ll feel like you’re savoring liquid silk – it’s that smooth! And the best part? You can easily recreate this comforting soup in your own kitchen with just a few simple ingredients.
Stamppot (Dutch National Dish)
Stamppot is a quintessential Dutch culinary treasure that harmoniously blends the down-to-earth flavors of potatoes, kale, and milk. The result is a satisfyingly rich and creamy dish that defies expectations by being both indulgent and surprisingly light on the palate. When you add the savory essence of sausage or bacon to the mix, it’s a game-changer. We’re adamant: if you haven’t yet had the pleasure of savoring Stamppot, you absolutely must give it a try.
Huzarensalade (Dutch Potato Salad)
Indulge in the rich flavors of Huzarensalade, a Dutch Potato Salad that’s delightfully addictive. The harmonious blend of tangy vinegar and creamy mayonnaise creates a taste experience that’s both unique and comfortingly familiar. This delectable side dish or snack is sure to keep you satisfied all day, with its expert balance of flavors preventing overwhelming richness.
Boterkoek (Dutch Butter Cake)
Indulge in the simplicity and delight of Boterkoek, a traditional Dutch Butter Cake that offers a unique flavor profile reminiscent of rich bread pudding baked in a cake pan. The moist and smooth texture is elevated by crispy edges, while the sweetness level remains balanced, avoiding the intense sugar rush often associated with typical cakes.
Bitterballen (Dutch Meatballs)
For a satisfying snack that pairs perfectly with TV time or waiting for the pizza delivery, consider indulging in Bitterballen – Dutch Meatballs. These bite-sized treats offer a delightful combination of crunchy exterior and juicy interior. At their core, they’re essentially deep-fried balls of ground beef, onions, and spices, making them an ideal choice for anyone seeking to curb their cravings without overdoing it.
What’s more, Bitterballen are incredibly versatile – enjoy them on their own with your preferred dip or sauce, use them as a foundation for homemade nachos, or add them to pasta sauce for an extra boost of flavor and nutrition.
Groningen Mustard Soup
Groningen Mustard Soup is a rich and comforting meal that will leave you wanting more. The unique flavor profile is a result of the harmonious union between pungent onion and tangy mustard, which creates an intriguing taste experience.
The initial bite may seem sharp due to the mustard’s boldness, but as you continue sipping, the sweetness from the onions emerges, expertly balancing out the flavors and culminating in a delightful culinary journey.
Appeltaart (Dutch Apple Tart)
Appeltaart, a beloved Dutch dessert, boasts a delightful combination of sweet and tart flavors. This festive treat’s crumbly crust and luscious apple filling are perfectly balanced to tantalize your taste buds. What sets it apart from other desserts is the subtle kick provided by its signature caramel-like sweetness, courtesy of light brown sugar. A hint of warm cinnamon adds depth and spice, making Appeltaart a unique and indulgent treat.
Enjoy it on its own or paired with a scoop of creamy ice cream or whipped topping – it’s sure to be a holiday season highlight!
Aardappel Kroketten (Dutch Potato Krokets)
Imagine sinking your teeth into an Aardappel Kroketten, and you’ll be transported to a cozy winter wonderland. The flavor is surprisingly light and airy, with a subtle earthy undertone that’s hardly overpowering. The crispy exterior adds a satisfying textural element, much like the warm glow of candles on a Christmas tree. It’s as if the taste of these Dutch treats is infused with the magic of the holiday season, evoking memories of family gatherings and joyful celebrations.
Macaroni Schotel (Dutch Macaroni and Cheese)
While Macaroni Schotel may seem like a straightforward macaroni and cheese dish at first glance, its rich flavors and satisfying texture make it a standout comfort food option. The addition of big chunks of chicken and an abundance of cheddar cheese take this classic comfort dish to the next level, resulting in a creamy, indulgent experience that’s both filling and flavorful.
If you’re craving something more substantial, Macaroni Schotel can be enjoyed as a standalone meal, or paired with a side of toast or garlic bread for added convenience.
Groentesoep Met Balletjes (Dutch Vegetable Soup With Meatballs)
Indulge in a warm, comforting bowl of Dutch Vegetable Soup with Meatballs – a true delight for the senses. The tender and juicy meatballs practically melt in your mouth, while the fresh vegetables add a delightful crunch. Meanwhile, the savory broth strikes the perfect balance of flavors, leaving you craving another spoonful. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or new to this classic Dutch dish, be prepared to experience a culinary treat that will leave you feeling satisfied and wanting more.
Dutch Frikandellen (Dutch Sausage)
Indulge in the rich flavors and textures of traditional Dutch Frikandellen, a savory delight that will satisfy even the most ardent meat enthusiasts. This mouthwatering recipe combines pork, chicken, and beef for a harmonious blend of succulence and subtlety. With a satisfying crunch on the outside giving way to a tender and juicy interior, each bite is a masterclass in flavor balance.
And let’s not forget the coveted crispy bits that add an irresistible textural element – it’s a culinary nirvana!
Banketstaaf (Dutch Christmas Log Pastry)
Banketstaaf is a delightful pastry that boasts a unique texture and flavor profile. The foundation of this treat lies in puff pastry, a delicate dough that’s been ‘puffed’ with yeast and baked to create layers that can be effortlessly pulled apart into thin sheets. When you take a bite, the layers transform into crisp and flaky goodness, while the interior remains soft and chewy.
To add an extra layer of complexity, the filling is crafted by combining ground almonds with sugar, which imbues it with a signature nutty flavor and aroma. If you’re seeking a sweet accompaniment to pair with your morning coffee or tea, Banketstaaf is the perfect recipe to try! Its harmonious balance of textures and flavors is sure to satisfy your cravings.
Pasteitje Met Ragout (Dutch Puff Pastries With Chicken Mushroom Ragout)
Imagine a harmonious union between a delicate crepe and a rich stew, and you’ll get Pasteitje Met Ragout. This delectable treat may seem straightforward, but its simplicity belies a wealth of flavor waiting to be uncovered.
The puff pastry, soft and airy with just the right amount of crunch from its crust, provides a delightful textural contrast. But it’s what lies within that truly sets this dish ablaze.
The warm, velvety gravy infused with savory meat melds seamlessly with every bite, unleashing a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. You’ll find yourself returning to this culinary delight again and again, never growing tired of its irresistible charm.
Dutch Pear Pie
In Dutch culture, desserts play a significant role, with pastries like the iconic Dutch Pear Pie standing out as a crowd-pleaser. This delectable treat is characterized by its flaky shell and succulent filling of fresh fruit, offering a harmonious balance of flavors. The sweetness of pears is elevated through the process of baking them in a mixture of sugar and lemon juice, resulting in a caramelized outer layer that provides a delightful textural contrast to the tender flesh.
Whether you’re looking for a holiday treat or simply a sweet indulgence, Dutch Pear Pie is an excellent choice.
Lekkerbekjes (Dutch Deep Fried Fish) In A Bun With Tartare Sauce
Indulging in a Lekkerbekjes sandwich is a quintessential Dutch comfort food experience. The combination of crispy fish, tangy tartare sauce, and sweetness from the lemon juice and mayonnaise creates an irresistible flavor profile that’s both savory and refreshing. With its light and flaky texture, the fish doesn’t overwhelm the palate, making it easy to enjoy one or two (or three!) sandwiches without feeling weighed down.
The balanced flavors and satisfying crunch come together to make this Dutch treat a true delight.
Dutch Apple Bread
Indulge in the delightful taste of Dutch Apple Bread, an ideal treat for breakfast, dessert, or snack. The star of this show is undoubtedly real apples, which infuse a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible! A hint of cinnamon adds warmth and coziness to the dough, making you feel all fuzzy inside. Upon taking a bite, you’ll be delighted by the tender, airy texture that practically melts in your mouth.
The soft crust provides a lovely contrast, with small chunks of apple adding natural sweetness and satisfying crunch. We’re confident this delectable bread will quickly become your go-to favorite!
Hachee (Dutch Beef & Onion Stew)
Hachee, a quintessential Dutch stew, warms hearts with its rich flavors. The foundation of this comforting dish lies in its tender beef and caramelized onions, which meld together in perfect harmony. The sweetness from the onions balances out the slight bitterness from the juniper berries, resulting in a taste that’s both complex and approachable. As you take a bite, the juicy meat and velvety sauce coat your palate, leaving you craving another spoonful.
And yet, despite its bold flavor profile, Hachee never feels overwhelming – rather, it’s a masterclass in balance and restraint, making it a staple for those who revel in savory delights.
Orange Tompouche (Dutch Pastry)
Indulge in the delightful taste of Orange Tompouce, a citrus-flavored sweet treat that’s as refreshing as it is satisfying. The subtle balance of sweetness and tartness makes for a perfect treat when you’re craving something sweet but don’t want to feel weighed down. With a smooth and creamy texture that glides effortlessly across your palate, every bite is a joy.
It’s remarkable how much flavor can be packed into such a compact package, making Orange Tompouce a must-try for anyone looking for a sweet indulgence.
Saucijzenbroodjes (Dutch Sausage Rolls)
Indulge in the irresistible charm of Dutch sausage rolls, perfect for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a family affair or a party with pals, these scrumptious treats are sure to delight. The real showstopper here is the harmonious balance of flavors. The buttery, flaky dough provides a tender base, while the sausage filling adds just the right amount of spice without overpowering the senses.
What’s more, you can easily mix things up by introducing new spices or ingredients to suit your taste buds’ whims.
The bottom line
The Netherlands is a gastronomic paradise, boasting an eclectic array of cuisines that cater to every palate. From the pungent allure of herring to the richness of cheese, meat, and pastries, the country offers a diverse culinary landscape that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re already enamored with Dutch cuisine or remain to be convinced, this compilation of authentic recipes is designed to delight and inspire.
With its unique blend of flavors and textures, Dutch food has the power to captivate even the most discerning eaters. So, let the aromas and flavors of these 25 original dishes from The Netherlands transport you on a culinary journey that’s sure to leave you smitten.
