Traveling To The Netherlands? Here’s What You Absolutely Must Eat

Published on June 13, 2021
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There is so much more to Dutch food than stroopwafel and fries, and most people have yet to discover the delicious, carb-heavy, cheesy delights that you can experience while visiting the Netherlands. Food in the Netherlands is rustic, comforting, and is influenced by its old colonies, Indonesia in particular. Here are some delicious eats you absolutely must try at least once while visiting the Netherlands.

More Than Just Stroopwafels

More Than Just Stroopwafels

Bitterballen

Bitterballen are quite similar to croquettes, and they’ll usually pop up at any fast food place you’ll go to. These balls of deep fried beer come with a side of gravy or roux and are often enjoyed alongside a nice cold beer. There are also vegetarian options that are made with mushrooms that are also delicious.

Bitterballen

Bitterballen

Herring

This might not be your go-to but we promise that Dutch brined herring, which is called maatjesharing or soused herring, is a beloved Dutch snack. You have to try it at least once. It is usually served plain or with some onions. The thing about this snack is that you have to eat it “the Dutch way” by picking up the whole fish by its tail and sliding it directly into your mouth headfirst.

Herring

Herring

Poffertjes

Poffertjes are small buckwheat pancakes that are usually served with powdered sugar, butter, and sometimes syrup. These pancakes a light and fluffy and are certainly more appealing to most people who visit the Netherlands than pickled herring.

Poffertjes

Poffertjes

Stamppot

Stamppot has endless variations, but the general idea is a smoked sausage served on top of a pile of vegetables that can include kale, spinach, saurkraut, or turnip greens. If carrots and onions are in the mix, then the dish is called hutspot. This is a common winter dish that is hearty and keep you full.

Stamppot

Stamppot

Hagelslag

Hagelslag is a dish that you might think a child invented, but we promise it is absolutely yummy. It’s basically just buttered bread that is coated in chocolate sprinkles. If you think it sounds weird, just think of it as a Dutch version of a donut. It’s really tasty and can be found everywhere, even pre-made at the supermarket.

Hagelslag

Hagelslag

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