12 Must-Try Dutch Foods for When You Visit the Netherlands (2025)

butter

🥗Healthier: coconut oil

💰Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil offers a dairy-free option with similar texture.

brown sugar

🥗Healthier: coconut sugar

💰Cheaper: white sugar

Coconut sugar retains some nutrients and has a lower glycemic index.

corn syrup

🥗Healthier: honey

💰Cheaper: maple syrup

Honey provides a natural sweetness with additional flavor.

all-purpose flour

🥗Healthier: whole wheat flour

💰Cheaper: gluten-free flour

Whole wheat flour adds fiber and nutrients.

Introduce the concept of Dutch food and its importance when visiting the Netherlands.

Describe stoop waffles as thin waffle cookies with a gooey caramel center, best enjoyed on top of a coffee mug to melt the caramel.

Explain the traditional way to eat raw Herring by holding it by the tail, dipping it in chopped onions and pickles, and eating it.

Introduce poffertjes as fluffy mini pancakes made with yeast batter, dusted with powdered sugar and served with butter.

Describe bitterballen as deep-fried meatballs with a creamy filling, best dipped in mustard.

Discuss the variety of Dutch cheese, including gouda and edam, and recommend sampling at a local cheese shop.

Explain the uniqueness of Dutch fries, which are thicker and served with various toppings, emphasizing the double frying technique.

Introduce erwtensoep (pea soup) as a winter staple made with split peas, pork, and vegetables, traditionally served with smoked sausage.

Describe oliebollen as deep-fried dough balls with raisins and currants, best enjoyed warm and popular during New Year's Eve.

Introduce kibbeling as bite-sized pieces of battered and deep-fried fish, typically served with dipping sauces.

Mention Dutch licorice as an intense flavor experience, not for the faint of heart.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

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