Belgium isn’t exactly known as a top destination when it comes to foodie travel. While many of its neighbors, especially France, are widely considered to have some of the best cuisine in the world, the average traveler’s knowledge of Belgian food is likely to be limited to waffles and fries. True, Belgians may not place quite the same value on culinary innovation and haute cuisine, but that doesn’t mean that they don’t have a fair share of delicious dishes of their own. Here are a few especially worth trying.
Waterzooi
The weather in Belgium can get pretty cold, and one of our favorite ways to warm up is with a hot bowl of Waterzooi. Hailing from the northern region of Flanders, Waterzooi is a stew made with chicken or fish in a thickened vegetable broth. Butter and egg yolks give the dish a creamy, velvety texture, while veggies and aromatic herbs provide contrast and flavor.
Stoemp
Potatoes are a staple in Belgian cuisine, and while pommes frites tend to take center stage, those looking to experience a different take on this versatile vegetable should be sure to try stoemp. Pronounced “stump,” stoemp is a rural Belgian side dish essentially consisting of mashed potatoes combined with other root vegetables, some bacon, and herbs. It’s easy to find and typically served with blood sausage and fried eggs.
Speculoos
By no means are we suggesting skipping the iconic Belgian waffle, but if you’ve had your fill and are looking to indulge in some other regional treats, we highly suggest seeking out some Speculoos. Developed in the 20th century as a local alternative to a more expensive Dutch cookie, the Belgian version is traditionally made with butter, brown sugar, and warm spices like cinnamon. Biscoff is the most well-known brand, but if you’re visiting Brussels, check out Maison Dandoy for a taste of their original family recipe.