Five Dutch Delights every Expat must try: more than Cheese and Tulips

Moving to the Netherlands introduces expats to a high variety of cultural experiences and, if you can learn to appreciate it, some unique culinary treasures. While cheese and tulips might be the most famous exports, Dutch cuisine offers a lot of interesting tastes and treats that are a must-try for everyone new in the Netherlands. Here’s a very brief overview with some ideas that you can try as an expat.

Stroopwafels: a Sweet Embrace

Let's start with something sweet. Stroopwafels are the iconic Dutch syrup waffles, are an irresistible combination of two thin waffles bonded by a layer of syrupy caramel. They are best enjoyed with a hot beverage, allowing the steam to soften the caramel, it’s the perfect introduction to Dutch sweetness.

Bitterballen: the Ultimate Companion to Beer

No Dutch gathering is complete without a serving of bitterballen. These deep-fried, crispy balls filled with a savory meat ragout are almost always easy to find at local bars and a must-try for any expat. If the kitchen is officially closed but you're hungry, then you can ask for bitterballen and usually they'll be able to make it for you.

Dip them in mustard for the full experience and understand why they’re the common snack during gezellig (cozy) moments.

Poffertjes: Fluffy Mini Pancakes

Poffertjes are delightful fluffy mini pancakes, traditionally served with a generous dusting of powdered sugar and a lot of butter. Their light and airy texture makes them a favorite for pretty much any event, offering a sweet, bite-sized treat that's impossible to resist.

Haring: an Acquired Taste

Dutch 'haring', or raw herring, might be a bit surprising at first, especially because of how it's typically eaten, but one gets the hang of it quite quickly. Generally served with onions and pickles, the key is to grab it by the tail and take a bite. It’s fresh, it’s fishy, and it’s very Dutch. If you care to try it, and you’ll earn your stripes as an honorary local.

Drop: the Dutch Candy of Choice

Finally, we have 'drop', the famous Dutch licorice. This is a treat that expats either love or hate. It had a bold and salty flavor. You can always try to see where you stand on the topic.

Embracing these culinary delights is more than just a taste adventure. It's a way to connect with the Dutch way of life, making your expat experience all the more enriching and enjoyable. As the Dutch say, eet smakelijk!