7 Traditional Dutch Foods For Christmas

Christmas is a time for celebration and indulgence, and in the Netherlands, this means indulging in traditional Dutch foods that are both delicious and festive. From sweet treats to savory dishes, Dutch cuisine has a lot to offer during the holiday season. Here are 7 traditional Dutch foods that are typically enjoyed during Christmas.

Traditional Dutch Christmas Foods

Dutch cuisine is known for its heartiness and simplicity, and Christmas is no exception. Many traditional Dutch Christmas foods are made with local ingredients such as meat, fish, and vegetables, which are then combined with spices and herbs to create delicious and comforting dishes.

1. Kerststol (Christmas Stol)

Kerststol is a traditional Dutch Christmas bread that is typically served during the holiday season. It is a sweet bread that is filled with almond paste, currants, and spices, and is often topped with a sweet glaze. Kerststol is a delicious treat that is perfect for breakfast or as a snack.

2. Erwtensoep (Pea Soup)

Erwtensoep is a thick and hearty pea soup that is a staple of Dutch cuisine. During Christmas, it is often served as a main course, accompanied by rye bread and bacon. Erwtensoep is a comforting and delicious dish that is perfect for cold winter nights.

3. Oliebollen (Deep-Fried Dough Balls)

Oliebollen are deep-fried dough balls that are typically served as a snack or dessert during Christmas. They are made with a sweet dough that is deep-fried and then dusted with powdered sugar. Oliebollen are a delicious and indulgent treat that are perfect for the holiday season.

4. Speculaas (Spiced Cookies)

Speculaas are spiced cookies that are traditionally served during Christmas in the Netherlands. They are made with a mixture of spices such as cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg, and are often cut into festive shapes such as windmills and birds. Speculaas are a delicious and aromatic treat that are perfect for dunking in coffee or tea.

5. Gouwenaar (Dutch Christmas Pudding)

Gouwenaar is a traditional Dutch Christmas pudding that is made with a mixture of dried fruits, nuts, and spices. It is often served with a sweet sauce, such as whipped cream or caramel. Gouwenaar is a delicious and comforting dessert that is perfect for the holiday season.

6. Balletjes (Meatballs)

Balletjes are Dutch meatballs that are typically served as a main course during Christmas. They are made with a mixture of ground meat and spices, and are often served with a tomato-based sauce and boiled potatoes. Balletjes are a hearty and delicious dish that is perfect for the holiday season.

7. Appeltaart (Dutch Apple Tart)

Appeltaart is a traditional Dutch apple tart that is often served as a dessert during Christmas. It is made with a mixture of apples, sugar, and spices, and is topped with a crumbly pastry crust. Appeltaart is a delicious and indulgent treat that is perfect for the holiday season.

These traditional Dutch foods are just a few examples of the delicious and festive dishes that are typically enjoyed during Christmas in the Netherlands. Whether you're in the mood for something sweet or savory, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

We hope you've enjoyed this culinary tour of traditional Dutch Christmas foods. Which dish would you like to try first? Let us know in the comments!