I love Belgium! The people are friendly and it seems like everyone runs or cycles. On my morning runs I get lots waves, nods and “Goedemorgen!” (“Good morning!”)
Belgium isn’t necessarily known for it’s food, but it should be! Here are some of my favorite dishes:
Stoofvlees (also known as Carbonade flamande / Vlaamse karbonade). Flemish stew is my favorite dish! It’s stewed meat, cooked in beer and it has a slightly sweet-sour flavor. It’s hearty and cozy, especially in the fall. Often, it’s served with another of my favorites – Stoemp.
Stoemp. This is such a simple dish, but so tasty! It’s mashed potatoes mixed with a seasonal vegetable. Often it’s carrots, leeks, peas, cabbage or spinach. Again, it’s filling and warm for a cool fall night.
Mussels / Moules-frites. If you are fan of mussels, you MUST get this in Belgium – it’s the national dish! You’ll likely have a few options on the menu of different flavors, but for me it’s the traditional white wine with parsley & butter.
Belgian fries / frites. I can’t get enough of the frites! Whether it’s with stoofvlees or mussels or just in a “cone” from a road-side stand, the fries are a must. And, NO KETCHUP! You have to try them with mayonnaise like the Belgians – so good!
Croquettes (cheese or shrimp). I’m partial to the cheese (because I’m a cheese-aholic). Grab a Belgian beer and some croquettes – it’s a perfect afternoon snack or happy hour appetizer. Crispy on the outside and hot, gooey, cheesy inside. YUM!
Yes, I know I forgot chocolate! (Some of the best in the world is from Belgium.) But, my wife, Jessica, has a whole post about finding the best chocolate in Belgium. Stay tuned!
