Amsterdam cuisine is adventurous, multiethnic, and liberal. A port sporting a true melting-pot character, the Dutch capital has absorbed different gastronomic influences to the enjoyment of its people and visitors. Of course, there are also the traditional Dutch foods that you can’t afford to miss. Here are some of the everyday foods that define the vibrant city.
Dutch cheese
Cheese lovers will be awed by kaas predominance in Amsterdam. Locals boast of their delightful cheeses (Gouda and Edam are the most common). The oud (old) variety is mature with a sharper taste, while jong (young) is mild and very creamy. Most cafés in the city offer some kind of kaas broodje (or cheese on a bread roll). Many Amsterdammers also go for goat cheese, often found on a delicious salad of mixed greens, honey, and walnuts. You can also get hand-crafted farmer’s cheese at a market stand.
Stroopwafels
The sinful stroopwafel (syrup waffle) will not disappoint those who love sweets. It is so insanely good that many people eat an entire package just in one sitting. This rich Dutch cookie is actually a thin sandwich made of two buttery waffle layers with sweet, gooey molasses. You will get one at grocery stores, souvenir shops, and small corner markets. For an enjoyable experience, have a warm waffle made right in front of you at the Albert Cuypmarkt, an open-air market.
Pannekoeken and poffertjes
Pannekoeken or Dutch pancakes are similar in taste and texture to French crepes. They are thin and made with a batter that is neither savory nor sweet. A traditional way to serve this plate-size indulgence is with the strangely sour Dutch syrup. If this does not suit your taste, you can always have warm cherries, whipped cream, and ice cream or go for yummy toppings like cheese and bacon. Poffertjes are smaller, puffed pancakes that are traditionally served with powdered sugar and butter. Stands selling them sit on popular squares all over Amsterdam during the winter season.
Vlaamse frites
There is no such thing as “French fries” in Amsterdam. Don’t dare call the tasty snack taters you’ll see in Amsterdam “French fries.” Locals refer to these favorite snacks as either Vlaamse frites or patat. The former means “Flemish fries,” in reference to the northern part of Belgium, where these tasty snacks originate.
