You're wondering what specialities in Amsterdam to discover on your first trip?
Today, I'm talking about the delights not to be missed when you visit the city.
Here we go!
Amsterdam specialty: article summary
Amsterdam specialty: Bitterballen
In Amsterdam, crispy meatballs called Bitterballen are the must-have bar snack in town.
Given that most travellers visit at least one bar in AmsterdamBitterballen are almost inevitable when visiting Amsterdam. But what are Bitterballen, you may ask?
The recipe for Bitterballen is quite simple and can be made in just a few steps. First, the Dutch chefs slowly cook the meat and refrigerate the stew until it solidifies.
They then form the meat mixture into small balls, bread them and fry them to perfection.
Plan to eat Bitterballen with your fingers, dipping each nugget in spicy mustard before tasting. Just be careful not to burn your tongue.
Pannenkoeken
Unlike their fluffier American version, Dutch pancakes, known as Pannekoeken, are flat, tasty and fill the plate.
The locals eat Pannekoeken at any time of day, often garnishing the base with starches, cold cuts or smoked salmon. However, some locals prefer to add fruit or chocolate to create a sweet dessert crepe.
You'll find Pannekoeken on the menu of local restaurants like Eetcafé Roserein, as well as in more touristy places like Pancakes Amsterdam.
Amsterdam specialty: Broodje Haring
Bitterballen may be Amsterdam's most popular bar food, but pickled herring sandwiches take the prize when it comes to street food.
The locals stop fish stalls called haringhandel to order herring sandwiches called broodjes haring all year round, but especially in summer, when herring is in season.
Order your broodje haring with pickles and onions. If you don't like bread, you can eat pieces of herring with toothpicks.
If you don't like herring, you can order smoked eel at the same place. Whatever you order, don't forget to add the gherkins and onions.
Stroopwafels
Locals line up for Stroopwaffels at the Albert Cuyp market. If you decide to wait, it won't be in vain.
Stroopwafels take the cookie concept to the next level by filling two thin wafers of sweet Stroop with the same delicious caramel-tasting syrup that goes so well with Pannekoeken. Originally invented in GoudaStroopwafels are best enjoyed while still warm.
Be sure to pair your Stroopwafel with hot coffee or tea. Not only is this the traditional way to eat Sroopwafel, but it's also a great way to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea. it's also the best way to reveal all its flavors.
Amsterdam specialty: Poffertjes
Sweeter than Pannenkoeken, miniature pancakes called Poffertjes are a popular snack available from stalls across Amsterdam.
Dutch cooks prepare Poffertjes dough with buckwheat flour before baking. fry small treats to crisp them up.
You can add toppings like Nutella and syrup to your Poffertjes if you like. Bear in mind that most locals stick to powdered sugar and butter, but it's up to you.
The Stamppot
Stamppot is a mixture of mashed vegetables, potatoes and butter. Dutch cooks traditionally add kale or Swiss chard, but more modern interpretations include other greens such as tarragon.
You can eat Stamppot as a comforting side dish, or pair it with sausages for a complete Dutch dinner. Although it can be a challenge, try to save room for dessert.
If you want to discover Dutch specialties, a trip to Amsterdam is a good way to discover new flavors. When you're there, don't hesitate to ask the waiter for the ingredients of the various dishes. For example, you'll be sure to love what's on your plate.
What to do in Amsterdam in 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 5 days, a week?
Whatever the length of your stay, I invite you to download my special Amsterdam guide.
It's free and in PDF format.
All you have to do is tell me below which e-mail address you'd like to receive it at.
EDIT: you can't enter your email?
Take the quiz at the top of this article and you'll be able to register your email address to receive the special Amsterdam guide!
Leave a Reply