Amsterdam is a city with a rich culinary heritage, offering an array of flavors and culinary styles to tantalize your taste buds. From classic Dutch specialties to international cuisine, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city. Here are the top foods you must try on your next trip to Amsterdam:
1. Stroopwafels
Stroopwafels are a delicious Dutch treat that consist of two thin, crispy waffles sandwiched together with a sticky syrup filling made from caramel and cinnamon. They are a popular snack throughout the Netherlands, and can be found in bakeries, cafes, and street markets across the country.
The origins of stroopwafels can be traced back to the town of Gouda in the 18th century, where bakers began using leftover dough and syrup to create a new type of snack. Today, stroopwafels are enjoyed by locals and visitors alike, and are often served with a cup of coffee or tea.
2. Poffertjes
Poffertjes are small, fluffy pancakes that are traditionally served with powdered sugar and a pat of butter. They are made from a batter consisting of flour, yeast, milk, and eggs, and are cooked in a special pan with small, shallow indentations. Poffertjes are a popular snack in the Netherlands, and can be found in cafes, markets, and at outdoor events and festivals.
The history of poffertjes can be traced back to the 17th century, when they were first created as a special treat for the wealthy. Today, they are enjoyed by people of all ages and social classes, and are a beloved part of Dutch cuisine. If you’re visiting the Netherlands, be sure to try both stroopwafels and poffertjes for a taste of the country’s delicious and unique culinary traditions.
3. Rijsttafel
Rijsttafel, which translates to “rice table” in English, is a Dutch-Indonesian fusion dish that consists of a variety of small dishes served with rice. The dishes typically include a mix of meat, seafood, vegetables, and sauces, and are influenced by the diverse flavors and spices of Indonesian cuisine.
The origins of rijsttafel can be traced back to the Dutch colonial period in Indonesia, when wealthy Dutch families would host elaborate feasts featuring a wide variety of dishes. Today, rijsttafel is a popular and beloved part of Dutch cuisine, and can be found in restaurants throughout the country.
4. Bitterballen
Bitterballen are a popular Dutch bar snack that consists of small, deep-fried meatballs filled with a mixture of beef or veal ragout and spices. They are often served with mustard for dipping, and are a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
The history of bitterballen can be traced back to the 19th century, when they were first created as a way to use up leftover meat. Today, they are a beloved part of Dutch cuisine and can be found in bars, cafes, and restaurants throughout the country. If you’re visiting the Netherlands, be sure to try both rijsttafel and bitterballen for a taste of the country’s unique and flavorful culinary traditions.
5. Kibbeling
Kibbeling is a popular Dutch snack that consists of battered and deep-fried chunks of white fish, typically cod or haddock. It is often served with a variety of dipping sauces, such as garlic mayonnaise or tartar sauce, and is a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
The origins of kibbeling can be traced back to fishing communities in the Netherlands, where it was first created as a way to use up small pieces of fish that were not suitable for other dishes. Today, it is a beloved part of Dutch cuisine and can be found in fish shops, markets, and at street food stalls throughout the country.
6. Herring
Herring, on the other hand, is a traditional Dutch dish that consists of raw herring that has been cured in a salt and vinegar brine. It is typically served with diced onions and pickles, and is often eaten as a snack or as a sandwich filling.
The history of herring can be traced back to the Middle Ages, when Dutch fishermen began using salt to preserve their catch for longer periods of time. Today, herring is a beloved part of Dutch cuisine and is enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. If you’re visiting the Netherlands, be sure to try both kibbeling and herring for a taste of the country’s unique and flavorful culinary traditions.
7. Cheesecake
Dutch Cheesecake, or kwarktaart, is a light and creamy cheesecake made with quark cheese, a soft and creamy cheese similar to Greek yogurt. The cheesecake is typically flavored with vanilla or lemon and is often served with fresh fruit or a fruit topping.
The history of kwarktaart can be traced back to the 16th century, when quark cheese was first introduced to the Netherlands. Today, kwarktaart is a beloved part of Dutch cuisine and is often served as a dessert or for special occasions. If you’re visiting the Netherlands, be sure to try both gehaktballen and kwarktaart for a taste of the country’s unique and flavorful culinary traditions.
8. Dutch Meatballs
Dutch Meatballs, also known as gehaktballen, are a traditional Dutch dish that consists of a mix of ground beef and pork, breadcrumbs, and various spices, such as nutmeg, cloves, and allspice. The mixture is then formed into balls and baked or fried until crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They are often served with mashed potatoes, gravy, and vegetables.
The history of gehaktballen can be traced back to the 17th century, when meat was considered a luxury and was typically reserved for special occasions. Today, gehaktballen are a beloved part of Dutch cuisine and can be found in restaurants and cafes throughout the country.
9. Stamppot
Stamppot is a traditional Dutch dish that is typically made with mashed potatoes and vegetables, such as kale, sauerkraut, or carrots. The vegetables are boiled or steamed until tender, then mashed together with the potatoes and flavored with butter, milk, and sometimes bacon or sausage. The result is a hearty and flavorful dish that is popular in the Netherlands, especially during the colder months. Stamppot is often served with a meat dish, such as rookworst (smoked sausage) or gehaktballen (Dutch meatballs).
10. Dutch Cheese
Dutch cheese is renowned around the world for its rich and flavorful taste. The most famous Dutch cheese is Gouda, a semi-hard cheese made from cow’s milk that is named after the city of Gouda in the Netherlands. Gouda cheese has a nutty and buttery flavor, and can be found in a variety of ages, from young and mild to aged and sharp. Another popular Dutch cheese is Edam, a semi-hard cheese that is typically round in shape and has a mild and slightly sweet flavor. Other Dutch cheeses include Maasdam, a semi-hard cheese with large holes and a mild and nutty flavor, and Leerdammer, a semi-soft cheese with a smooth and creamy texture and a nutty flavor. Dutch cheese is often enjoyed on its own or as part of a sandwich or snack plate, and is a must-try for cheese lovers visiting the Netherlands.
These are just a few of the top foods you must try on your next trip to Amsterdam, and the city’s culinary scene is constantly evolving and growing. Whether you’re a foodie or just looking for a delicious bite to eat, Amsterdam is a city that offers something for everyone.
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