1. Haring
Haring is a dish of fresh, raw herring, reflecting the lively, sea-loving spirit of the Dutch people. (Image source: Collected)
A quintessential Dutch summer dish is herring, or Haring, a dish of fresh, raw herring that perfectly embodies the vibrant, sea-loving spirit of the Dutch people. When summer arrives and fishing boats bring in their first catches of the season, the entire country erupts in a simple yet joyful culinary festival.
Haring is served in a very rustic yet charming way. Fresh herring is cleaned and lightly soaked in brine to preserve its tender, succulent flesh and original rich, buttery flavor. When eating, the Dutch typically hold the fish by the tail, tilting its head upwards, allowing the soft piece to melt in their mouth. The mild saltiness, creamy richness, and fresh ocean aroma create a soothing sensation, like being caressed by a cool wave on a hot summer afternoon.
You can also enjoy Haring served with finely chopped onions and pickled cucumbers, sold from small carts along the canals or in bustling squares. Under the gentle sunlight, with the soft sound of water lapping against the shore, the cool taste of the herring is like a sea song, forming the essence of Dutch summer cuisine.
2. Stamppot
In summer, Stamppot takes on a fresh, light, and cool appearance. (Image source: Collected)
When talking about summer dishes in the Netherlands, many people think Stamppot is only for winter. But in fact, in the summer, Stamppot takes on a much fresher, lighter, and more refreshing appearance.
In its summer version, Stamppot is no longer a heavy mashed potato dish with stewed kale, but a gentle harmony of fresh greens, tender boiled baby potatoes, and extra virgin olive oil. Carrots, peas, scallions, or fresh spinach are lightly tossed in, retaining their natural color and crispness. The flavor is a blend of the sweet and earthy taste of potatoes, the freshness of greens, and the delicate richness of olive oil.
The Dutch often enjoy Stamppot as a light summer lunch, paired with grilled sausages or golden-fried fish. In the warm sunshine, a plate of Stamppot emits a fragrant aroma reminiscent of damp earth after a rain, evoking a peaceful and rustic countryside feel. It's a Dutch summer dish that takes people back to their roots, to sincerity and simplicity in every bite.
3. Kibbeling
Kibbeling is a crispy fried fish dish that appeals to anyone visiting outdoor markets or docks (Image source: Collected).
A quintessential Dutch summer dish would be Kibbeling – the crispy fried fish that entices anyone visiting outdoor markets or docks with its aroma carried on the breeze. Summer is the season of fairs, the time when Dutch people gather by the riverbanks and canals, sitting on makeshift wooden benches and sharing hot, crispy pieces of fish.
Kibbeling is typically made from fresh cod, cut into bite-sized pieces, seasoned simply but flavorfully with salt, pepper, and garlic, then coated in flour or beer batter before deep-frying. When removed from the oil, the crust is golden brown and crispy, like sunlight bursting on the water's surface. Inside, the fish meat is pure white, soft, moist, and sweet, retaining the refreshing taste of the North Sea.
The proper way to enjoy Kibbeling is to dip it in fragrant garlic aioli or creamy remoulade. Amidst the seagulls' calls, the salty scent of the sea, and the lively laughter of the market, a piece of Kibbeling seems to encapsulate the spirit of Dutch summer – carefree, joyful, and full of life's flavors.
4. Salade Huzarensalade
Huzarensalade has a long history, inspired by army salads but adapted by the Dutch (Image source: Collected).
When summer days stretch endlessly with sunlight lasting until late at night, the most beloved summer dish in the Netherlands is the refreshing and flavorful salad. Among them, Huzarensalade is a refined, elegant yet hearty and emotionally rich choice.
Huzarensalade has a long history, inspired by army salads but adapted by the Dutch into an elegant dish perfect for park picnics or garden parties. The main ingredients typically include diced boiled potatoes, carrots, peas, pickles, onions, cold cuts, or tuna. All are gently mixed with a refreshing mayonnaise dressing, with a touch of golden mustard for a subtle garnish.
This salad is not only visually appealing but also offers a refreshing, creamy, yet well-balanced flavor. On a bright sunny day, Huzarensalade is served on a white porcelain plate, sprinkled with fresh green herbs, making each meal feel like a refined summer feast. It's a Dutch summer dish that brings you closer to a relaxed, meticulous lifestyle in harmony with nature.
5. Poffertjes
A Dutch summer meal wouldn't be complete without Poffertjes (Image source: Collected)
A Dutch summer meal wouldn't be complete without Poffertjes – tiny, puffy flatbreads that resemble miniature suns, with a delicate sweetness and rich buttery aroma. In the summer, when outdoor markets and festivals flourish, Poffertjes carts become a familiar meeting place for children and adults alike, where the aroma of slightly burnt butter on a cast-iron pan wafts out like a sweet invitation.
Poffertjes are made from flour, yeast, and milk, and fried in a special pan with a round indentation to ensure even expansion. When cooked, the outside is slightly crispy, but the inside is soft and smooth, as if embracing a layer of melted butter and a fine white powdered sugar coating. Taking a bite of a Poffertje on a summer afternoon, you'll experience a subtle sweetness, a hint of buttery aroma, and a warm feeling that spreads like the gentle smile of the vendor.
Though just a snack, Poffertjes embodies the spirit of Dutch summer: cheerful, sweet, and ready to share even the smallest joys. Sitting on a park bench, listening to live music, holding a warm plate of Poffertjes in your hands – these are unforgettable summer memories.
The top 5 summer dishes in the Netherlands are not just a list of delicious food, but also glimpses into the life, culture, and soul of the Dutch people. Each dish tells a story about a country low below sea level but with an ever-high spirit, about people who love freedom but remain deeply connected to their community. Let Dutch summer cuisine guide you deeper into the heart of this land, so that each trip is not just about sight but also about taste, not just about visiting but about leaving a lasting impression – in your memory and in your love for the land of windmills.
Source: https://www.vietravel.com/vn/am-thuc-kham-pha/mon-an-mua-he-o-ha-lan-v17516.aspx
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