The Netherlands may be famous for its windmills, tulips, and bicycles, but its culinary heritage is just as fascinating! Dutch cuisine is hearty, comforting, and deeply rooted in tradition, with dishes that reflect the country’s maritime history, agricultural abundance, and penchant for practicality. Whether you’re visiting or already living in the Netherlands, here are 10 traditional Dutch dishes you absolutely must try.
1. Stroopwafels
Let’s start with something sweet! Stroopwafels are thin, crispy waffles sandwiched together with a layer of gooey caramel syrup. These treats are best enjoyed fresh from a market stall, where the warm syrup practically melts in your mouth. Pro tip: Place one over your cup of coffee or tea for a few seconds to soften the syrup. It’s pure bliss!
2. Haring (Raw Herring)
This iconic Dutch snack might seem intimidating to first-timers, but it’s a must-try for adventurous eaters. Fresh, raw herring is typically served with chopped onions and pickles. The traditional way to eat it? Grab it by the tail and tilt your head back for a bite. Or, if that’s too bold, you can enjoy it sliced in a sandwich (broodje haring).
3. Bitterballen
If you’re hitting up a Dutch pub, bitterballen are non-negotiable. These deep-fried, crispy balls are filled with a creamy, savory meat ragout and served with mustard for dipping. They’re the ultimate bar snack and pair perfectly with a cold Dutch beer.
4. Erwtensoep (Split Pea Soup)
Erwtensoep, also known as snert, is a thick and hearty split pea soup loaded with smoked sausage (rookworst), pork, and vegetables. It’s a winter staple in the Netherlands and is so thick that traditionally, a spoon should be able to stand upright in the bowl. Serve it with a slice of rye bread for the full experience.
5. Kroketten (Croquettes)
Kroketten are similar to bitterballen but come in a cylindrical shape and are often eaten as a quick snack or even as part of a sandwich (broodje kroket). These crispy snacks are filled with a creamy meat-based filling and are commonly found in vending machines at fast-food chains like FEBO.
6. Poffertjes
Poffertjes are tiny, fluffy pancakes made with yeast and buckwheat flour. They’re served warm, dusted with powdered sugar, and topped with a generous knob of butter. These bite-sized pancakes are a popular street food, especially at festivals and markets, and are guaranteed to satisfy your sweet tooth.
7. Stamppot
Stamppot is the ultimate comfort food in Dutch cuisine. It’s a hearty mash of potatoes mixed with vegetables like kale (boerenkool), carrots, or sauerkraut, often served alongside rookworst (smoked sausage) and gravy. This dish is simple, filling, and perfect for cold winter evenings.
8. Oliebollen
If you’re in the Netherlands during New Year’s celebrations, you’ll find oliebollen everywhere. These deep-fried dough balls, often studded with raisins or currants, are dusted with powdered sugar and enjoyed as a festive treat. They’re like Dutch donuts but denser and more rustic.
9. Hutspot
Another traditional Dutch mash dish, hutspot, is made with potatoes, carrots, and onions. It has historical significance dating back to the Siege of Leiden in 1574, making it a dish with a story. Like stamppot, it’s often paired with rookworst or stewed meat.
10. Drop (Licorice)
The Dutch are obsessed with drop, and it’s unlike any licorice you’ve tasted before. From sweet to salty (zoute drop), Dutch licorice comes in countless varieties. It’s an acquired taste for many, but if you’re feeling adventurous, it’s worth trying—at least once!
Bonus: Cheese (Kaas)
No list of Dutch food would be complete without mentioning cheese. The Netherlands is a cheese lover’s paradise, with iconic varieties like Gouda, Edam, and Leyden. Visit a local cheese market, such as the ones in Alkmaar or Gouda, to sample and buy authentic Dutch cheese.
Final Thoughts
Dutch cuisine may not be as internationally renowned as French or Italian, but it’s full of comforting, flavorful dishes that reflect the Netherlands’ rich culture and history. Whether you’re sipping on erwtensoep in winter or snacking on bitterballen at a pub, these traditional dishes offer a taste of the Dutch way of life.
Have you tried any of these dishes? Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments below!
