Belgium's Best Bites: Hearty Culinary

Are you in Belgium and fed up with just having fries? Dive deeper into Belgium's rich culinary landscape and discover a world of hearty, savory dishes that go beyond the famous frites. Belgium offers a gastronomic adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. Join us on a journey through Belgium's best bites and uncover the hidden gems of its culinary heritage.

Moules-Frites (Mussels-Fries)

Moules-frites is a quintessential Belgian dish that combines mussels and fries. What sets these mussels apart is that they come from Belgium's rivers, making them fresh water rather than sea mussels. This gives them a unique flavor that is renowned worldwide. The mussels are typically steamed in a broth made with white wine, garlic, onions, and various herbs.

Sometimes, cream is added for a richer flavor. This dish is often served with a side of Belgian fries, which are double-fried to achieve a perfect crispy texture. It is a staple in many Belgian brasseries and is enjoyed year-round.

Stoofvlees (Flamish Stew)

Not a fan of sea food? Try stoofvlees, also known as Carbonade Flamande. The beef is slowly braised in Belgian beer with onions, mustard, and a touch of brown sugar, which adds a slight sweetness to the dish. The result is a rich, savory stew that is often served with fries or bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. This dish is particularly popular during the colder months.

Vol-au-Vent (Puff Pastry Shell)

Vol-au-Vent is a classic Belgian dish that features a creamy chicken filling encased in a light, flaky puff pastry shell. The filling consists of tender chicken pieces, mushrooms, and small meatballs, all cooked in a luscious, creamy white sauce often enriched with a splash of white wine and a touch of cream.

The puff pastry shell adds a delightful texture contrast, making each bite a perfect balance of creamy and crispy. Typically served with fries or mashed potatoes, Vol-au-Vent is a must-try for anyone looking to experience the hearty and comforting side of Belgian cuisine.

Waterzooi

Looking for a healthier option? Give Waterzooi a try! This creamy stew, originating from Ghent, offers a comforting and nourishing meal. Traditionally made with either fish (viszooitje) or chicken (kippenwaterzooi), Waterzooi features a medley of vegetables such as leeks, carrots, and potatoes, all simmered in a creamy broth enriched with cream and egg yolks.

Waterzooi is renowned for its hearty and satisfying nature, making it a popular choice, especially during the winter months. Whether you're feeling a bit under the weather during your trip or simply in need of a break after indulging in Belgian chocolates and waffles, Waterzooi provides the perfect balance of warmth and nourishment.

Fricadellen (Meatball)

Fricadellen is Belgian meatballs made from a mixture of ground meat (usually a combination of pork and beef), breadcrumbs, and spices. They can be served in various ways, such as with tomato sauce, in a sandwich, or alongside fries. These meatballs are a beloved comfort food and are often enjoyed at home or in casual eateries.

Boudin

Boudin refers to a variety of sausages found in Belgian cuisine. The most common types are boudin blanc (white sausage), made from pork, milk, and spices, and boudin noir (blood sausage), made from pork blood, onions, and spices. These sausages are usually pan-fried and served with mashed potatoes, apple compote, or sautéed onions.

Lapin à la Bière (Rabbit in the Beer)

Looking for a taste of Belgian tradition? Indulge in Lapin à la Bière, a classic dish that tantalizes the taste buds with tender rabbit simmered in a rich and flavorful beer-based sauce, complemented by the subtle sweetness of prunes.

This hearty and savory delicacy showcases the culinary prowess of Belgium, where rabbit is braised to perfection alongside onions, carrots, and herbs, creating a dish that's as comforting as it is delicious. Lapin à la Bière embodies the essence of Belgian cuisine, combining quality ingredients with time-honored cooking techniques.

Its touch of sweetness from the prunes adds a delightful contrast to the savory flavors, making each bite a true delight. Whether you're exploring the charming streets of Belgium or seeking a culinary adventure at home, this dish promises to satisfy your craving for hearty flavors and rustic charm.