The Basics of Dutch Cooking
By Karin Engelbrecht, About.com Guide to Dutch Food
Dutch cuisine has a long and interesting history, and includes everything from hearty family meals to the lightest of pastries. Armed with these Dutch Cooking Basics, you'll have everything you need to start cooking dishes from the Netherlands in your very own kitchen.
History and Background
The Romans, French, Spanish, Indonesians, Surinamese, Moroccans and Turkish have all stamped their unique influence on the Dutch kitchen. Holland, in turn, has left its own culinary legacy in some parts of the world. The history of food in the Netherlands takes us from humble beginnings, through the glory of the Golden Age and Holland's subsequent frugal phase through to today's exciting food revolution.
Dutch Food Culture
Join me for a look at Holland's daily eating habits, unique quirks and food trends.
- Typical Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner Meals
- Forgotten Veggies - The New Trend
- Drop - A National Obsession
- What's the Difference Between Brown Cafe's, Eetcafes and Restaurants?
Dutch Holidays
The most important holidays on the Dutch calendar are undoubtedly Sinterklaas, Christmas, New Year's Eve, Easter and Queen's Day, each with its own traditions and treats.
- Sinterklaas (St. Nicholas' Eve)
- Kerst (Christmas)
- Oud en Nieuw (New Year)
- Pasen (Dutch Easter)
- Koninginnedag (Queen's Day)
Getting Started
Get the insider's guide to Dutch cooking from a local. Find out which recipes will give you a flavor of Holland, and see my step-by-step instructions so that you can make common Dutch ingredients at home. I'll also share my favorite Dutch websites, restaurants & shops.
- 10 Dutch Recipes to Try
- Dutch Food Shopping
- Book Reviews
- My Favorite Amsterdam Foodie Spots
- My Favorite Groningen Foodie Spots
- Restaurant Reviews
- Substitutes for Common Dutch Ingredients
- How to Make Almond Paste
- How to Make Speculaaskruiden
- How to Make Hangop
Glossary of Dutch Food Terms
If Dutch is all Greek to you, this glossary of common Dutch dishes, ingredients and terms might just help you on your way. Click on the title for an explanation or some extra info and pictures.
