Top 7 Belgian dishes that captivate diners

Belgium is not only famous for its ancient architecture and brilliant squares, but also for its rich cuisine, attracting diners from all over the world. Belgian dishes have a strong European influence, a delicate combination of tradition and modernity, creating unforgettable flavors. If you have the opportunity to visit Belgium, you must definitely try the seven typical dishes below.

1. Moules-Frites

Moules-Frites is one of the most famous Belgian dishes (Photo source: Collected)

Moules-Frites is one of the most famous Belgian dishes, often chosen by diners when visiting coastal restaurants or traditional beer halls. This dish consists of fresh green mussels steamed with white wine, garlic, celery and onions to create a delicious, rich flavor. The sauce from the mussel cooking process has a natural sweetness, combined with a little fat from the butter, making the dish extremely attractive.

The special thing about Moules-Frites is the combination of crispy fries. Belgian fries are famous for their crispy exterior and soft interior, creating a perfect balance with the fresh mussels. This dish is often served with mayonnaise or aioli for added flavor.

2. Frites

French fries are one of the most popular dishes in Belgium (Photo source: Collected)

Fries are one of the most popular dishes in Belgium and are considered a national pride . Unlike fries in other countries, Belgian fries are fried twice to create a perfectly golden crispy crust while remaining soft on the inside.

Belgians have a habit of eating fries with many different sauces, from traditional mayonnaise to cheese sauces, curry sauces or spicy Andalouse sauce. You can easily find this dish at fast food stalls, beer bars or restaurants all over Belgium.

3. Carbonnade Flamande

Carbonnade Flamande is a Belgian dish with a strong Flanders culinary style (Photo source: Collected)

Carbonnade Flamande is a Belgian dish inspired by Flemish cuisine, where beer is a key ingredient. This beef stew is made by slow-cooking beef with Belgian brown beer, onions, mustard and a little sugar to create a rich, creamy but not too heavy flavor.

The special thing about Carbonnade Flamande is the light sweetness from beer and caramelized onions, combined with the tender beef that melts in your mouth. This dish is usually served with fries or bread, helping diners fully enjoy the delicious flavor of the rich stew.

4. Waterzooi

Wterzooi - A famous delicacy from the Ghent region of Belgium (Photo source: Collected)

Waterzooi is a Belgian dish originating from the Ghent region and is considered a typical dish during cold days. The soup was originally made with fish but today the more popular version is chicken Waterzooi.

The main ingredients of Waterzooi include tender chicken stewed in a rich creamy broth, combined with vegetables such as carrots, leeks, celery and potatoes. The combination of the richness of the cream, the natural sweetness of the vegetables and the aroma of the chicken creates a warm, nutritious dish. Waterzooi is often eaten with bread to increase the deliciousness.

5. Stoofvlees

Stoofvlees is similar to Carbonnade Flamande but has a difference in preparation (Image source: Collected)

Stoofvlees is a Belgian dish similar to Carbonnade Flamande but with a different preparation. Beef is simmered in Belgian dark beer, combined with bread spread with mustard to thicken the sauce.

Stoofvlees is rich in flavour thanks to the balance between the sweetness of the brown sugar and the slight bitterness of the beer. It is often served with fries or crispy toast, which helps soak up all the rich sauce. Stoofvlees are not only a favourite in Belgian homes but are also a popular dish in traditional beer halls.

6. Gaufres

When talking about Belgian food, waffles are a must-try (Photo source: Collected)

When it comes to Belgian food, waffles are one of the most famous desserts in the world . There are two main types of Belgian waffles: Liege waffles and Brussels waffles. Liege waffles have a denser texture and a sweeter taste thanks to the pearl sugar that caramelizes during baking, creating an attractive crispy crust. Meanwhile, Brussels waffles have a lighter texture, a square surface and are often served with powdered sugar, whipped cream, chocolate or fresh fruit.

No matter the type, Belgian waffles offer a delicious flavor, suitable to enjoy with a cup of coffee or hot chocolate in the afternoon.

7. Chocolat Belge

Belgium is known as one of the countries that produces the best chocolate in the world (Photo source: Collected)

Belgium is known as one of the best chocolate producing countries in the world, and it is no surprise that Belgian chocolate is one of the most popular Belgian dishes. With a centuries-old chocolate making tradition, brands such as Neuhaus, Godiva, Leonidas or Pierre Marcolini have brought exquisite chocolates, rich flavors and excellent quality.

Belgian chocolate is famous for its rich fillings of chestnuts, caramel, brandy or dried fruits. Not only is it an attractive snack, Belgian chocolate is also a great souvenir for tourists when visiting this country.

Belgian cuisine is a harmonious combination of traditional flavors and sophisticated cooking methods, bringing unforgettable experiences to diners. From Moules-Frites, Carbonnade Flamande to crispy waffles, each dish in Belgium has its own appeal. If you are a foodie, do not miss the opportunity to enjoy these specialties when visiting the land of beer and chocolate.

Source: https://travel.com.vn/tin-tuc-du-lich/mon-an-o-bi-v16694.aspx