7 Authentic Dutch Recipes You Must Try Now

If you've ever been curious about the rich culinary heritage of the Netherlands, then it's time to dive into some authentic Dutch recipes. Dutch cuisine, often underappreciated on the international stage, offers a variety of dishes that are both hearty and unique, shaped by history, regional ingredients, and a few modern twists. From savory stews to delectable pastries, here are seven Dutch recipes that you must try now.

1. Stamppot: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Stamppot is the Dutch answer to comfort food. Think of it as mashed potatoes’ hearty, flavorful cousin. The most common version is made with:

• Potatoes
• Carrots
• Onions
• Endive or kale for boerenkool

The process is simple but yields a dish that is both filling and nourishing:

1. Boil potatoes, carrots, and onions until tender.
2. Drain, then mash or beat to create a chunky mash.
3. Fry up some smoked sausage or bacon for the topping.
4. Serve with a side of worst (sausage) or spek (bacon) and a gravy or jus.

🥔 Note: The beauty of stamppot lies in its versatility. Feel free to mix and match with other root vegetables or greens like sauerkraut, parsnip, or spinach.

2. Erwtensoep (Snert): Pea Soup for Cold Days

Erwtensoep, also known as snert, is the quintessential Dutch winter soup. Made from split peas, it’s a thick, warming dish:

• Split peas
• Pork hock
• Leeks, celery, onions, and carrots
• Bay leaves and thyme for flavor

To prepare this soup:

1. Soak peas overnight, then simmer with pork hock until very tender.
2. Chop and sauté vegetables, adding them to the soup.
3. Add herbs and let it simmer gently to thicken.
4. Serve with rye bread and bacon.

🍲 Note: Erwtensoep thickens significantly upon cooling, making it perfect for reheating, which often makes it taste even better the next day.

3. Dutch Apple Pie (Appeltaart): More Than Just Pie

The Dutch Apple Pie is a twist on the traditional American version, featuring:

• A layer of sweet, cinnamon-spiced apple filling
• A crunchy, crumble topping
• A robust shortcrust base

Here’s how to bake one:

1. Make the dough and press it into a pie tin.
2. Prepare the apple filling, toss with sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice.
3. Add the apple mixture to the crust, then top with crumble.
4. Bake until golden brown.

🥧 Note: Serve it the Dutch way, with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream to enhance the flavors.

4. Oliebollen: Dutch Doughnuts for New Year’s Eve

There’s no Dutch celebration, especially New Year’s Eve, without oliebollen. These are:

• Deep-fried dough balls
• Typically filled with raisins, currants, or apples

To make your own:

1. Prepare the dough, let it rise until doubled.
2. Scoop spoonfuls into hot oil and fry until golden.
3. Dust with powdered sugar and serve warm.

🎉 Note: Oliebollen are not just for New Year’s; they’re a Dutch tradition enjoyed year-round, especially at fairs and markets.

5. Bitterballen: Savory Deep-Fried Goodness

Bitterballen are a popular bar snack in the Netherlands:

• Meat or vegetable filling
• Crumbed and deep-fried

Here’s how to create these delightful treats:

1. Cook a roux, add beef or vegetable stock, then meat or veggies.
2. Chill, roll into balls, and bread them.
3. Deep fry until crispy on the outside.
4. Serve with mustard or mayo for dipping.

6. Pannekoeken: The Versatile Pancakes

Forget everything you know about pancakes; Pannekoeken are:

• Thin, large, and versatile
• Often served with sweet or savory toppings

To make pannekoeken:

1. Whisk together flour, eggs, and milk to create a thin batter.
2. Pour batter into a hot skillet, swirling to cover the pan.
3. Cook, flip, and cook again until golden.
4. Serve with toppings like syrup, fruit, cheese, or bacon.

🥞 Note: Pannekoeken can be a meal in themselves or a simple snack. The beauty is in the variety of toppings you can add.

7. Zuurkoolstamppot: The Sour Kraut Mash

A twist on stamppot, Zuurkoolstamppot uses:

• Sauerkraut for a tangy flavor
• Potatoes and sausage for traditional heartiness

Here’s how to prepare it:

1. Boil potatoes, then mash with sauerkraut.
2. Add cooked sausage or bacon, mixing well.
3. Heat through and serve with mustard on the side.

In wrapping up our journey through authentic Dutch cuisine, it’s clear that these recipes offer more than just a meal; they provide a taste of Dutch culture, heritage, and the warmth of home cooking. Whether you’re enjoying the robust textures of stamppot, the comforting warmth of erwtensoep, or the delightful sweet indulgence of appeltaart, each dish carries a story and an invitation to savor the simple yet profound flavors of the Netherlands.

What makes Dutch cuisine unique?

+

Dutch cuisine is unique due to its simplicity, the focus on potatoes, meat, and vegetables, and the historical influence from neighboring countries, leading to hearty, nourishing dishes.

Can I use substitutes for traditional Dutch ingredients?

+

Yes, while traditional ingredients give authentic flavor, substitutions can work. For example, use regular sausage instead of rookworst in stamppot, or choose a different type of pie crust if traditional shortcrust isn’t available.

Is Dutch food only heavy and fatty?

+

While Dutch cuisine does have many hearty, comforting dishes, there are lighter options like pannekoeken or fresh salads that showcase the versatility of Dutch cooking.

Are there any vegetarian or vegan Dutch recipes?

+

Yes, while many traditional Dutch dishes are meat-focused, vegetarian options like stamppot with different vegetable mash or vegan versions of Dutch apple pie exist. Substitution can make many dishes vegetarian or vegan-friendly.