Belgium’s cuisine offers a wide variety of flavors, from savory stews to sweet treats. Whether you’re indulging in crispy waffles, savoring the rich taste of a beer-based stew, or enjoying a plate of mussels and fries, each dish reflects the country’s culinary heritage. These five popular dishes are just a glimpse into Belgium’s food culture, but they represent some of the most beloved and must-try meals when visiting this beautiful country.
Moules-Frites (Mussels and Fries)
Moules-frites is one of Belgium’s most iconic dishes, featuring fresh mussels cooked in a variety of sauces and served with crispy golden fries. The mussels are usually steamed with ingredients like garlic, white wine, celery, and onions, creating a fragrant broth. While there are different variations, such as mussels cooked in cream or beer, the combination of tender mussels and perfectly fried potatoes makes this dish a favorite in Belgium. It’s commonly enjoyed with mayonnaise or aioli for dipping the fries.
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Belgian Waffles
Belgian waffles are a well-known street food and dessert, loved by locals and tourists alike. There are two main types of waffles in Belgium: Brussels waffles and Liège waffles. Brussels waffles are light and airy, with a crispy exterior and square-shaped indentations, typically served with powdered sugar, whipped cream, or fruit. Liège waffles, on the other hand, are denser and sweeter, with caramelized sugar chunks that give them a slightly chewy texture. Both versions are delicious and often enjoyed as a snack or dessert.
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Carbonnade Flamande (Flemish Beef Stew)
Carbonnade Flamande is a traditional Belgian stew made with tender beef, onions, and Belgian beer. The beer gives the stew a rich, slightly sweet flavor, which is often balanced with a touch of mustard or vinegar. The beef is slow-cooked until it’s incredibly tender and served with fries, bread, or mashed potatoes. This dish is a comforting favorite, especially during the colder months, and showcases Belgium’s love for hearty, flavorful meals. It’s often paired with a local beer to complement the dish’s robust taste.
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Stoofvlees (Flemish Stew)
Stoofvlees, also known as beef and beer stew, is another classic Belgian comfort food. The dish features beef braised in a dark Belgian beer, along with onions, mustard, and herbs. Over time, the beef becomes soft and tender, absorbing the rich flavors of the beer and spices. Like Carbonnade Flamande, Stoofvlees is often served with fries or a slice of rustic bread. The use of beer in this dish highlights Belgium’s strong brewing tradition and its influence on the country’s cuisine.
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Speculoos
Speculoos is a type of spiced shortcrust biscuit that originated in Belgium and is especially popular during the holiday season. The biscuits are flavored with a mix of cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, and other warm spices, giving them a distinctive taste. Speculoos is often shaped with intricate designs and patterns, making them not only delicious but also visually appealing. These cookies are enjoyed as a snack with coffee or tea, and the flavor has become so popular that it’s now used in spreads, ice creams, and other desserts around the world.
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