Every city tells its story through food, and Amsterdam is no exception. From creamy bitterballen to hearty stamppot, the city’s cuisine offers a rich variety of flavors you won’t want to miss. Have you ever wondered what makes Dutch food so special? The first step to tasting it all is booking your trip. Search for flight tickets that fit your travel plans and reserve your seat for an unforgettable journey. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through what to eat in Amsterdam, sharing the must-try dishes and the stories behind them. Ready to explore the best of Dutch cuisine? Let’s dive in!
Stamppot
The first of our foods in Amsterdam list is the Stamppot. This local dish is one of the most famous ones in Dutch cuisine. It’s a comfort food through and through, especially popular during the colder months. The dish is made by mashing potatoes together with vegetables like kale, carrots, or spinach. What makes stamppot special is the smoky flavor from the sausage that is often served on top. Moreover, stamppot is usually eaten as a main dish during dinner. It’s perfect for cozy family meals, especially in winter when you need something warm and hearty. Also, we can say that it is quite easy to cook stamppot! To make it at home, you just boil the potatoes and vegetables together, mash them up, and season with butter and salt. Add the sausage and some gravy, and your stamppot is ready!
Hutspot
This dish is said to have originated during the Siege of Leiden in 1574, when Dutch soldiers found a pot of cooked vegetables left behind by Spanish troops. Since then, hutspot has become a symbol of Dutch history and resilience. This dish is made by mashing potatoes with cooked carrots and onions. The combination is sweet and savory, making it a comforting option for dinner. As you can guess, Dutch people love to see cooked vegetables on the table. It’s often served with slow-cooked beef or smoked sausage, adding protein and flavor. Hutspot is easy to prepare, and its ingredients are simple, making it a budget-friendly choice as well.
Bitterballen
If you’re asking what to eat in Amsterdam Netherlands for a snack to enjoy while exploring the city, bitterballen is a must-try! These small, round croquettes are filled with a creamy meat mixture made from beef or veal, seasoned with spices, and coated in breadcrumbs before being deep-fried. The result is a crispy golden snack that’s crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. Bitterballen are typically served as a bar snack and are a favorite to pair with a cold Dutch beer. They come with a side of mustard for dipping, which adds a strong sour taste to their rich flavor. You’ll find them on the menu at most bars and cafes in Amsterdam. They’re perfect for a quick bite during a casual evening out with friends.
Bruine Bonensoep
Bruine Bonensoep, or brown bean soup, is a hearty and warming dish that’s perfect for a chilly day in Amsterdam. This soup is made with brown beans, smoked sausage, and a mix of vegetables like carrots, celery, and leeks. It’s thick and filling, making it a satisfying meal on its own. Traditionally, this soup is served during autumn and winter when the weather gets colder. It’s a popular choice for lunch or dinner, especially when paired with crusty bread or rolls. The sausage gives the soup a smoky taste that goes well with the rich flavor of the beans, making it both tasty and comforting. Bruine Bonensoep is a great choice if you want to try traditional Dutch home cooking. It’s made with simple and healthy ingredients and can be cooked in large amounts, making it ideal for families or group meals.
Stroopwafels
Stroopwafels are one of the most popular food in Amsterdam. They are made by sandwiching a layer of caramel syrup between two thin waffles. These cookies are best enjoyed warm, and you can often find them freshly made at street markets or cafes. Perfect with a cup of coffee or tea, stroopwafels are a must-try for anyone with a sweet tooth.
Frietjes
Frietjes are Dutch-style fries that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They are usually served in a cone with a variety of sauces, the most popular being mayonnaise. You can also try them with peanut sauce or curry ketchup for a unique flavor. Frietjes are a great snack to enjoy while walking around the city or as a quick bite between meals.
Pannenkoeken
Pannenkoeken are Dutch pancakes and are much larger and thinner than American pancakes. They can be sweet or savory, with toppings like powdered sugar, fruit, cheese, or even bacon. Pannenkoeken are often eaten for breakfast or lunch and are a fun way to try Dutch flavors in a unique dish.
Appletaart
Appletaart, or Dutch apple pie, is a traditional dessert in Amsterdam. It’s made with a thick crust, filled with sweet apples, cinnamon, and sometimes raisins. Unlike regular apple pie, appletaart has a crumbly topping and is served in thick slices. It’s best enjoyed with a dollop of whipped cream and a cup of coffee.
Haring
If you ask yourself about what food to eat in Amsterdam, haring is definitely one of them. Haring, or raw herring, is a famous Dutch delicacy. The fish is lightly salted and can be eaten on its own or with onions and pickles. You can find haring stands all over Amsterdam, and it’s a popular snack for locals and tourists. It might seem unusual, but it’s worth trying for an authentic taste of Dutch cuisine.,
Kibbeling
Kibbeling is a popular Dutch street food made from deep-fried fish pieces, usually cod. The fish is coated in a light batter and fried until golden and crispy. It’s served with a side of tartar sauce or garlic sauce for dipping. Kibbeling is a delicious and quick snack, perfect for seafood lovers.
Before planning your trip to Amsterdam to get a taste of these food highlights, you should definitely take a look at our blog article “Things to Do in Amsterdam“!
