A Culinary Journey Through Belgium: Traditional Dishes and Must-Try Snacks

Belgium is renowned not only for its rich history and stunning architecture but also for its exceptional cuisine. Whether you’re wandering through the cobblestone streets of Brussels, exploring the canals of Bruges, or relaxing in the vibrant city of Antwerp, Belgian food is a central part of the experience. From indulgent chocolates and waffles to savory stews and crispy fries, Belgium offers a variety of traditional dishes and snacks that are sure to satisfy any food lover. Here’s your culinary guide to Belgium’s must-try foods and snacks.

1. Belgian Waffles

No trip to Belgium is complete without tasting one of its iconic waffles. There are two main types: the Brussels waffle and the Liège waffle.

• Brussels Waffle: Light, crispy, and rectangular, this waffle is often served with a dusting of powdered sugar or topped with whipped cream, strawberries, or chocolate sauce. Its airy texture makes it a perfect street snack.
• Liège Waffle: Richer and denser than its Brussels counterpart, the Liège waffle is made with a dough that includes chunks of caramelized sugar, giving it a sweet, crunchy exterior. This waffle is a local favorite in the city of Liège and is usually eaten as a hand-held snack.

Waffles can be found in nearly every Belgian city and are often enjoyed as a breakfast, dessert, or mid-afternoon snack.

2. Belgian Fries (Frites)

Belgium is the birthplace of fries, and they are taken very seriously here. The fries are thicker than their French counterparts and are double-fried for a crispy exterior and a soft, fluffy interior. Frites are often served in a paper cone, topped with an array of sauces, the most popular being mayo.

While you can find frites in many places, Friteries (specialized fry shops) are particularly beloved in Belgium. In fact, Belgian fries are often enjoyed as a snack or served as a side dish with mussels or stews.

3. Moules-Frites (Mussels and Fries)

A quintessential Belgian dish, Moules-Frites pairs fresh mussels with crispy Belgian fries. The mussels are usually cooked in a variety of broths, including white wine, garlic, cream, or even beer. This dish is a must-try when visiting coastal cities or ports like Oostende or Bruges.

The combination of tender mussels and the crispy fries is a perfect match, making Moules-Frites one of Belgium’s most iconic dishes.

4. Carbonnade Flamande (Flemish Beef Stew)

For those who prefer hearty, comforting dishes, Carbonnade Flamande is a must-try. This traditional Belgian beef stew is made with chunks of beef that are slow-cooked in a rich sauce of Belgian beer, onions, and spices. The beer adds a deep, malty flavor to the dish, making it rich and satisfying.

Carbonnade is often served with frites, bread, or mashed potatoes to soak up the delicious sauce. It’s a classic dish enjoyed throughout the country, especially in the colder months.

5. Stoofvlees (Belgian Beef Stew)

Another variation of stew, Stoofvlees is a popular dish in Belgium’s French-speaking Wallonia region. It’s similar to Carbonnade Flamande but uses a darker beer, resulting in a slightly richer and more robust flavor. The slow-cooked beef is served with frites or a slice of bread to help mop up the flavorful sauce. Stoofvlees is typically enjoyed as a comforting meal on a chilly day.

6. Speculoos

Speculoos is a traditional spiced biscuit that originates from Belgium, often enjoyed around Christmas time. The cookies are crunchy, with a flavor profile that includes cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and ginger. You can find Speculoos in almost every bakery, and they are often served with coffee.

Belgium’s love for Speculoos has evolved, and today, you can also find Speculoos spread, which is a sweet, creamy version of the cookies, sold in jars and spread on toast, pancakes, or waffles.

7. Belgian Chocolate

Belgium is globally famous for its exquisite chocolate, and no visit to the country is complete without indulging in some. Belgian chocolate is known for its smooth texture and rich flavor, and there are countless chocolatiers offering artisanal creations.

You can visit iconic chocolate shops like Neuhaus, Godiva, and Pierre Marcolini to sample some of the best pralines, truffles, and bars. For a truly immersive experience, consider taking a chocolate tour in Brussels, where you can visit the many historic chocolate shops scattered around the city.

8. Chicons au Gratin (Belgian Endive Gratin)

Belgium’s cuisine is also heavily influenced by local vegetables, with Belgian endive (chicons) being a staple in many dishes. One of the most famous dishes made with endives is Chicons au Gratin, a comforting baked dish where the endives are wrapped in ham, smothered in béchamel sauce, and topped with cheese before being baked until golden and bubbly.

It’s a delicious and hearty dish, often served with potatoes or a side of salad.

9. Paling in’t Groen (Eel in Green Sauce)

For seafood lovers, Paling in’t Groen is a classic Belgian dish. It consists of eel served in a flavorful green sauce made with a mix of fresh herbs, white wine, and sometimes vinegar. The sauce is light but flavorful, perfectly complementing the tender eel.

This dish is especially popular in the regions along the rivers and lakes of Belgium, such as Antwerp and Ghent, where eel is abundant.

10. Belgian Beer

While not a dish in itself, no culinary journey in Belgium would be complete without trying its world-famous beer. Belgium boasts a vast selection of craft beers, with over 1,000 varieties ranging from rich, dark ales to light, refreshing pilsners.

Famous beers include Trappist beers brewed by monks in monasteries, Lambic beers (fermented with wild yeast), and Belgian Witbier (a wheat beer spiced with coriander and orange peel). Beer lovers can visit brewery tours in cities like Brussels, Antwerp, and Leuven, where you can taste some of the finest brews and learn about the brewing process.

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Conclusion

Belgium offers a culinary experience that is as rich and diverse as its culture and history. From iconic waffles and fries to rich stews, chocolates, and world-class beers, there’s something to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re savoring the delicate sweetness of Belgian chocolates, enjoying a hearty plate of Moules-Frites, or washing down a delicious Speculoos cookie with a cup of coffee, Belgium’s food scene is sure to leave a lasting impression. So, embark on your culinary journey through Belgium and discover the flavors that make this country a true gastronomic delight.