Exploring Amsterdam’s cuisine? Check out this guide of 22 tasty dishes. From traditional pea soup to stroopwafels, you’ll find plenty of tasty options. Sample local seafood at Gebr. Hartering or head to trendy Meatless District for plant-based food. Try bitterballen with a Dutch beer. For an Indonesian twist, visit Gastrobar Indonesia!
Pro Tip: Many Amsterdam restaurants offer small “tasting” portions – take advantage to experience more flavors! The city’s culinary scene is a mix of flavors, just like its famous brownie scene.
Overview of Amsterdam cuisine
Amsterdam’s Culinary Scene: A Brief Insight
The city of Amsterdam is renowned for its captivating and multicultural food scene. From street food to fine dining, there’s something for everyone! Dutch and international cuisines make up the culinary offerings of Amsterdam.
Here are some must-try typical dishes from Amsterdam. This table highlights the name of each dish, ingredients and popular restaurants that serve them.
| Dish Name | Ingredients | Popular Restaurants |
|---|---|---|
| Stroopwafel | Waffle cookie with syrup filling | Albert Cuyp Market, Van Wonderen Stroopwafels |
| Bitterballen | Deep-fried meatballs filled with beef ragout | Cafe de Klos, Hap-Hmm |
| Haring (Herring) | Raw herring with chopped onions and pickles | Stubbe’s Haring, Frens Haringhandel |
| Poffertjes | Miniature pancakes served with butter and powdered sugar | Albert Cuyp Market, De Vier Pilaren |
| Kibbeling | Deep-fried cod strips served with garlic sauce | Viscafe De Gouden Hoek, Seafood Bar |
| Kaas (Cheese) | Gouda cheese | Reypenaer Cheese Tasting Room & Shop, Cheese & More |
Additionally, vegan and vegetarian options like vegan bitterballen, falafel bowls and fresh salads are also available in Amsterdam.
Don’t miss out on these scrumptious dishes! Start your culinary journey in Amsterdam and savor the flavors! Get ready to enjoy some delicious Dutch treats.
Dutch snacks to try
To try some authentic Dutch snacks when in Amsterdam, turn to this section on ‘Dutch snacks to try’. Here, we offer you the ultimate solution with our sub-sections, including Bitterballen, Kaassoufflé, and Stroopwafel. Each of these snacks holds a special place in Dutch cuisine and culture, and trying them is an experience in itself.
Bitterballen
In the Netherlands, there’s a popular snack called ‘round balls of meat ragout‘ – Bitterballen. It’s a traditional treat that locals and tourists love. Here’s a table with more details:
| Bitterballen | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Dutch |
| Appearance | Round, deep-fried, golden-brown coating |
| Main Ingredients | Beef broth, butter, flour, pepper, salt |
| Served With | Mustard or mayo |
These snacks have a unique taste. They’re usually served in small portions. The exterior is crispy and golden-brown. Inside, you’ll find creamy, meat-ragout filling. Unlike other meatballs, these contain beef broth for extra flavor.
It’s highly recommended to try Bitterballen when in the Netherlands. For an extra kick, top them with mustard or mayo. If you’re feeling cheesy, try the kaassoufflé. It’s sure to melt your heart (and your taste buds).
Kaassoufflé
Cheesy Puff Pastry Delight!
This Dutch snack is called ‘Kaassoufflé‘, which means cheese soufflé. It’s made of puff pastry and Gouda cheese, deep-fried until crispy.
Name: Kaassoufflé
Type: Snack
Main Ingredient: Gouda cheese, puff pastry
Preparation Method: Deep-fry until crispy.
This savory snack is served in Dutch fast-food restaurants with ketchup or sweet chili sauce. Its cheesy, flaky texture makes it perfect for cheese lovers.
Try this Dutch delight! Get to a Dutch fast-food joint, order a Kaassoufflé and enjoy its cheesy yumminess.
Be warned: Once you try it, you can’t go back to regular waffles! You’ve been warned!
Stroopwafel
A Dutch delicacy, the ‘Syrup Waffle‘ or ‘Syrup Wafel‘ is a caramel-filled waffle cookie sandwich. Crispy on the outside and soft in the middle, these treats are popular snacks in the country.
Specs:
- Appearance: Circular waffle with caramel filling
- Taste: Sweet with a hint of cinnamon
- Origins: Invented in Gouda during late 18th century
For the best stroopwafels, you should look for street vendors who serve them fresh and warm. Eat them on their own or have them with coffee or tea; either way, they make a delicious Dutch snack. Enjoy the gooey goodness and get a taste of traditional Dutch cuisine on your next visit! So, whether you’re hungover or not, this breakfast dish will make you feel like a champion.
Breakfast dishes to sample
To try out some typical Amsterdam breakfast dishes with traditional flavors, you can explore Poffertjes, Hagelslag, and Dutch pancakes. Poffertjes are small, fluffy pancakes that are traditionally served with butter and powdered sugar. Hagelslag is a sprinkling of chocolate or other sweet toppings on bread, often eaten as a quick breakfast. Dutch pancakes are a thin version of American pancakes, with toppings typically including fruits, syrups, or jams.
Poffertjes
Here is a table showcasing the greatness of Poffertjes:
| Ingredients | Prep Time | Cook Time | Serving Size |
|---|---|---|---|
| Flour, milk, yeast, sugar, salt | 10 minutes | 30 minutes | Usually serves 5 pancakes |
Poffertjes differ from regular pancakes with their airy texture and mini size. Serve them warm with butter and powdered sugar for a sprinkle party! If you want to make this breakfast item at home, use a quality pan. Let the batter rest before cooking. Flip gently so they cook evenly on both sides. Hagelslag, anyone?
Hagelslag
Sprinkled Delight: Hagelslag!
Originating from the Netherlands, Hagelslag is a sweet sprinkle made of tiny chocolate flakes and sugar granules. It is mainly enjoyed by children as part of their breakfast routine – slathered on buttery toast or bread.
This sprinkle can also be used to add a special touch to desserts. Try sprinkling your ice-creams or cakes with hagelslag – milk, dark or white chocolate – for an elegant treat!
Did you know? In the Netherlands, 14 million kilos of hagelslag are sold every year! So why not indulge in a stack of fluffy Dutch pancakes, topped with your favourite sprinkle?
Dutch pancakes
Try Dutch pancakes! They are thinner than American pancakes but thicker than French crepes. Their delicate texture melts in your mouth! Toppings like apple and cinnamon or bacon and cheese add extra flavor.
In the Netherlands, these pancakes are commonly eaten for lunch or dinner. Variations with different meats and vegetables make them even more delicious.
Did you know that Dutch pancakes were originally made with buckwheat flour? Wheat was not widely available until the 19th century. So why not have breakfast all day long and make #BrunchLifeGoals a reality?
Lunch and dinner options
To explore lunch and dinner options when in Amsterdam, and to savor some of its delicious typical dishes, consider trying Patatje Oorlog, Kapsalon, and Stamppot. These dishes offer unique flavors and ingredient combinations that are sure to delight your taste buds.
Patatje Oorlog
Patatje Oorlog is a famous Dutch dish. It’s a mix of French fries, mayo, peanut sauce, and raw onions. This tasty combo is popular in the Netherlands. The peanut sauce is made with ground peanuts and coconut milk, sometimes with sweet and sour elements. Raw onions give the dish crunchiness. There are regional variations, with different sauces and toppings. Some restaurants even make vegan or vegetarian versions.
The name ‘Patatje Oorlog‘ means ‘fries war’. It’s said that during WWII, American soldiers ordered fries with hard-to-find sauces. This mix reminded them of the battlefield, hence the name.
Another Dutch dish is Kapsalon. It’s fries, kebab meat, and melted cheese – yum!
Kapsalon
This dish is popularly called ‘Kapsalon‘. It’s a mix of French fries, Doner meat, Gouda cheese and other yummy ingredients. It got its name from a hair salon in Rotterdam. The owner would always order this combo for lunch.
To make it more delicious, try adding garlic or hot sauce. Or ask for extra cheese or meat if you want a bigger meal. Kapsalon is a must-try!
The Netherlands also has a simple dish called Stamppot. It consists of mashed potatoes and veggies. A reminder that sometimes simplicity is the key!
Stamppot
Taste a traditional Dutch dish, ‘Mashed Pot’. It includes mashed potatoes and various veggies like kale, sauerkraut, turnips, or carrots. The table below will provide more detail about it. Name, ingredients, and cost.
| Name | Ingredients | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Boerenkool | Kale & Mashed Potatoes | $7.50 |
| Hutspot | Carrots & Mashed Potatoes | $8.50 |
| Zuurkool | Sauerkraut & Mashed Potatoes | $9.00 |
Mix sweet and savory flavors with Appelstroop (apple syrup) or smoked sausage. Top it off with fried onions or grated cheese for extra texture. You can experiment with different combinations to find your perfect match.
But, when it comes to lunch or dinner, why not opt for seafood? It’ll feel like being on a cruise ship instead of being stuck in the office!
Seafood dishes
To indulge your palate with Amsterdam’s famous seafood dishes, this section on ‘Seafood Dishes’ with ‘Haring, Kibbeling, and Hollandse Nieuwe’ as the solutions. Each of these dishes has unique flavors and textures that will leave you wanting more. Discover the delights of Dutch seafood through these sub-sections.
Haring
The Dutch treat ‘Hollandse Nieuwe‘ is a popular seafood dish. It’s made with freshly caught herring, onions, and pickles. The herring is first cleaned, then pickled in a mix of vinegar, sugar, salt, and spices. It’s usually served as an appetizer or snack, with bread. May to July is the best time to enjoy this dish, when the herring is freshest.
To get the full flavor, Hollandse Nieuwe should be eaten raw. Hold the herring by its tail, tilt your head back, and bite into its belly. This lets you savor its rich flavor and buttery texture.
Herring also has many health benefits. It’s packed with Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and protein. It can even improve heart health and reduce inflammation.
Pro Tip: When buying herring, choose ones that are plump and shiny, with clear eyes. Dull-looking or cloudy-eyed herring may be old or spoiled. Who needs a fisherman when you can just go to the nearest Dutch street vendor for crispy and delicious kibbeling?
Kibbeling
Kibbeling – a Dutch snack famed for its crunchy outer layer and flaky inner – is believed to have been created from fish scraps too small to sell. Nowadays, it’s a much-loved treat that can be found at local markets and festivals around the Netherlands.
Different areas and chefs have their own unique take on Kibbeling, often adding various spices or batters for extra flavour.
It’s said that Kibbeling gets its name from the Dutch word ‘kabeljauwwang’ meaning ‘cod cheeks’. Once a delicacy, these are now commonly fried up into Kibbeling.
No matter if it’s your first time trying Kibbeling or you’re already a fan, it’s sure to be an unforgettable seafood experience.
Hollandse Nieuwe
Hollandse Nieuwe is a Dutch specialty, originally from Scandinavia. People all over Europe love it for its unique flavor.
To experience it for yourself, visit a reliable seafood restaurant or market during May-July. The herring must have under 5% fat and not yet formed an adult spine. It’s often eaten as a snack or appetizer with onions, pickles, or bread.
Don’t miss out! Life’s too short to skip this delicious Dutch dessert.
Dutch desserts to indulge in
To satisfy your sweet tooth with the Dutch desserts in Amsterdam, you can indulge in the delicious treats that are unique to the region. With the section of “Dutch desserts to indulge in” with “Appeltaart, Oliebollen, Advocaat” as solutions, you can discover the delectable delights that should be on your must-try list.
Appeltaart
Indulge in the Dutch classic dessert – Hollandse Appeltaart! Buttery crust and cinnamon-infused apple filling make it a must-try treat. Juicy slices of apples, raisins, almonds and sweet spices are layered upon a crunchy crust. Shortbread or puff pastry are often used for the base, and it includes flour, eggs and sugar.
This dessert is a comforting delight, perfect with hot coffee or tea. For an extra touch of indulgence, serve warm tart with whipped cream or ice cream. Who needs self-control when you can have a plate full of warm and doughy Oliebollen?
Oliebollen
This Dutch delicacy is a round, deep-fried dough ball. It’s dusted with powdered sugar and customarily served on New Year’s Eve and at fairs and carnivals.
Ingredients include flour, yeast, milk, eggs, salt, sugar and currants or raisins.
To prepare, mix the ingredients together to form a batter. Let rise for a couple of hours and then deep fry dough balls until golden brown. Roll in powdered sugar while still warm.
Most enjoy Oliebollen hot with a cup of coffee or tea.
For a unique twist, stuff them with Nutella or custard! Don’t miss out – make it at home tonight!
Advance your dessert game and try Advocaat – the boozy Dutch treat!
Advocaat
Advocacy is a famous Dutch dessert made with eggs, sugar and brandy. It’s usually served in small glasses or poured over ice cream. To make it, mix together those three ingredients. For a twist, add whipped cream or cinnamon on top. Enjoy with family and friends after dinner.
Pro Tip: Make sure the eggs are cooked before using them. Who needs meat when you’ve got stroopwafels and poffertjes? Vegans and vegetarians can relax and tuck into Dutch desserts without guilt.
Vegetarian and vegan options
To explore vegetarian and vegan options in Amsterdam’s culinary scene, turn to the section on differences in types of dishes to give you the solution you need. With sub-sections diving into the Dutch cheese plate, Vegetarische Slager, and Dutch stroop, you’ll have a comprehensive understanding of the best veggie options Amsterdam has to offer.
Dutch cheese plate
If you’re in the mood for a dairy-based meal, Dairyland’s Gouda cheese is the perfect option! Their Dutch Cheese Plate offers a variety of matured and semi-matured Goudas, including Goat Gouda, Aged Gouda, Smoked Gouda and 24-Month Aged Gouda. See the table below for details.
| Cheese Type | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|
| Goat Gouda | A tangy flavor and smooth texture. |
| Aged Gouda | A sweet and savory nutty flavor. |
| Smoked Gouda | A smoky aroma that tantalizes the senses. |
| 24-Month Aged Gouda | A tougher bite with a fruity aftertaste. |
Dairyland’s chef is committed to farm-to-fork values. They source local dairy farms to ensure high-quality products. Every cheese on their plate shows unique characteristics, crafted with artisanal care.
Memories can be brought back through food. One couple told how they had their first date eating Gouda in Amsterdam. This gave them wonderful memories and more over the years. Why have meat when you can have a Vegetarische Slager burger?
Vegetarische Slager
Vegetarische Slager is the perfect spot for plant-based eaters, as it offers delicious and healthy vegetarian and vegan options. Their products are made using high-quality proteins like soy, lupin, and wheat.
You can find a range of meat substitutes, such as sausages, burgers, and chicken nuggets. Vegetarische Slager makes it easy to switch to plant-based eating without compromising taste or quality.
Plus, they take sustainability into account – reducing their carbon footprint and helping the environment. Switching to vegetarian or vegan food at Vegetarische Slager is beneficial for your health and the planet. Try Dutch stroop waffles for a delicious vegetarian treat!
Dutch stroop
Dutch stroop is a sticky, sweet filling made from fruit and sugar. It’s known for its deep brown color and amazing flavor. When in the Netherlands, it’s a must-try! This confectionary usually doesn’t contain any animal products, so vegans and vegetarians can enjoy it too.
This treat comes in many flavors. Apple, pear, and berry are the most common. Each has its own unique taste and texture.
You can make your own Dutch stroop at home. There are lots of recipes online that use natural ingredients and don’t need special equipment.
Stroop has been around since ancient times. People used fresh fruits to make syrups that would last through winter storage. Now, it’s the modern-day version we all love.
Don’t forget to sample some authentic Dutch stroop when visiting the Netherlands. It’s an unforgettable culinary experience! Vegans and vegetarians in Amsterdam will be happy to know that international cuisine is a treat for their taste buds.
International cuisine in Amsterdam
To explore international cuisine in Amsterdam, there’s no need to travel far and wide. You can find a diverse mix of cuisines right in the city. Indulge in the flavors of Surinamese roti, savor authentic Indonesian rijsttafel, and enjoy a variety of Turkish mezze. This section will highlight the unique characteristics of each cuisine.
Surinamese roti
At Amsterdam’s international food scene, Roti is a must-try! It’s a Surinamese dish that’s made a big impression. This savory flatbread with curried meat or veggies, potatoes & chutney sauce is a hit with locals & tourists. Here’s the 5-step guide to getting the perfect Roti experience:
- Research: Find the best spots for authentic Surinamese Roti in Amsterdam.
- Ordering: When you arrive, order a Roti with your choice of meat or veggie curry.
- Toppings: Don’t forget the toppings – chutney sauce, boiled potatoes & bean sprouts.
- Serving: Serve it in parchment paper, with the side dishes at the table.
- Enjoy: Enjoy your delicious Roti with other meals like bara & chicken masala.
There are also modern versions of Roti, like vegetarian & vegan filled options like tofu masala. To complete your meal, try Indonesian ‘dawet’ soft drink, or Mauritian-style fried wontons filled with cheese (Gato Pima). Enjoy the deliciousness of Indonesian rijsttafel!
Indonesian rijsttafel
The tantalizing Indonesian ‘Rijsttafel’ dish is a mix of small portions filled with flavorful dishes from Indonesia. An Indonesian Rijsttafel Table can feature columns of traditional dishes such as Nasi Kuning, Ayam Goreng and Sambal Udang, to show their ingredients and flavors.
This plate is special because of its range of veggies, meats, seafood and spices. Each element works together to create an amazing culinary experience. Don’t miss out on this delicious meal!
Amsterdam has plenty of restaurants that serve up this delightful dish. Enjoy a true taste of Indonesia and say ‘mez-ze’ to your taste buds!
Turkish mezze
A popular selection of the Mediterranean diet is Turkish meze – small plates of flavor-packed, diverse dishes. These bitesize treats usually comprise hummus, yogurt dips, eggplant salads, grilled meatballs, lentil soups and stuffed grape leaves. Enjoy with freshly baked pita bread or a basket of traditional bread – it’s the perfect way to have good food and conversation with friends and family.
Vegetarian and vegan alternatives are available at some restaurants. Check out Turkish mezze on the menu in Amsterdam’s city center. Spices used in this cuisine come from cultures like Greek, Roman and Persian, and have been around for thousands of years.
It’s no wonder Turkish mezze is still a hit in Amsterdam’s international culinary scene – its powerful mix of flavors and textures will take your taste buds on a world tour!
Conclusion
Amsterdam’s food culture is varied and exciting for tourists and locals. Here, we’ve explored 22 traditional dishes. From deep-fried balls filled with meat ragout, to a sweet treat of two waffles and caramel, there’s something for all tastes!
Plus, restaurants bring their own twists to classic recipes and ingredients. One traveler found a new favorite snack in kibbeling – deep-fried white fish – perfect after a day exploring Amsterdam’s canals and museums.
It’s clear that Amsterdam’s food scene combines tradition and innovation, making it a great place to explore new flavors!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What are some typical Dutch dishes that I can try in Amsterdam?
Some typical Dutch dishes that you can try in Amsterdam include stamppot, bitterballen, stroopwafels, and poffertjes.
2. What is stamppot?
Stamppot is a Dutch dish made from mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables such as kale, sauerkraut, or carrots, and usually served with sausage or meatballs.
3. What are bitterballen?
Bitterballen are deep-fried balls made from a mixture of beef or veal ragout, breadcrumbs, flour, and spices. They are a popular snack or appetizer in the Netherlands.
4. What are stroopwafels?
Stroopwafels are thin, crispy waffle cookies with caramel syrup filling. They are a popular sweet snack in the Netherlands and can be found at markets and bakeries in Amsterdam.
5. What are poffertjes?
Poffertjes are mini Dutch pancakes made from buckwheat flour and yeast batter. They are typically served with butter and powdered sugar, and are a popular snack or dessert in the Netherlands.
6. Where can I find traditional Dutch dishes in Amsterdam?
You can find traditional Dutch dishes in many restaurants and cafes throughout Amsterdam. Some popular places to try Dutch cuisine include De Foodhallen, Moeders, and Van Stapele Koekmakerij.