When it comes to cuisine, Belgium is a treasure trove of flavors and textures. From sweet treats like waffles and chocolate mousse to hearty stews and savory dishes like stoemp and carbonnade flamande, Belgian cooking has something for everyone. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the best of Belgian cuisine, showcasing 20 mouthwatering recipes that showcase the country’s rich cultural heritage.
From classic comfort foods like Flemish beef stew with dark beer to sweet indulgences like speculoos cookies and Belgian chocolate mousse, these recipes are sure to delight. Whether you’re looking for a taste of Belgium or just want to spice up your cooking routine, this collection of authentic recipes is the perfect starting point.
Stay tuned for our next installment, where we’ll dive into the world of Belgian waffles, stews, and more!
Belgian waffles with whipped cream and strawberries
Start your day off right with these crispy and fluffy Belgian waffles, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and sweet strawberries. This classic combination is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 4 teaspoons baking powder
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 2 large eggs
– 1 cup whole milk
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Confectioners’ sugar (optional)
– Whipped cream and sliced strawberries for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat waffle iron according to manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and melted butter.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Cook waffles in batches for 3-5 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Top with whipped cream and sliced strawberries.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Flemish beef stew with dark beer
This classic Flemish beef stew is a rich and flavorful dish that combines tender chunks of beef, root vegetables, and dark beer for a depth of flavor. Perfect for a cold winter’s night, this stew warms the heart and soul.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 cup dark beer (such as Flemish Red Ale or Porter)
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Brown the beef cubes, then remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and potatoes; cook until vegetables are tender.
4. Add browned beef back to pot, along with dark beer, beef broth, cumin, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 hours or until beef is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Belgian endive gratin with ham and cheese
Elevate your appetizer game with this rich and creamy Belgian endive gratin, featuring crispy ham and melted cheese. This simple yet elegant recipe is perfect for special occasions or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Belgian endives
– 1/2 cup (120g) diced cooked ham (such as prosciutto or serrano ham)
– 1/4 cup (60g) grated Gruyère cheese
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the endives in half lengthwise and place them in a baking dish.
3. Top each endive with a spoonful of diced ham, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the ham.
5. Dot the top of each endive with softened butter.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Carbonnade flamande (Flemish beef and onion stew)
This classic Belgian stew is a rich and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cold winter’s night. With tender beef, caramelized onions, and a hint of beer, it’s a meal that will leave you feeling cozy and satisfied.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef chuck, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup dark beer (such as Chimay or Duvel)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon mustard
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh thyme, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add the onions. Cook, stirring occasionally, until caramelized, about 20-25 minutes.
4. Add the garlic, beer, mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the beef to the pot and simmer, covered, for 1 1/2 hours or until tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Moules-frites (mussels with fries)
Experience the quintessential Belgian dish, a harmonious union of tender mussels and crispy fries.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs mussels, scrubbed and debearded
– 1 lb potatoes, peeled and cut into fry shapes
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup butter
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse mussels under cold water, discarding any open or broken ones.
2. Heat butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add white wine (if using), then mussels. Cover and cook until mussels open, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, fry potatoes in hot oil until golden, about 3-4 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
5. Serve mussels with fries, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Waterzooi (Belgian chicken or fish stew)
Waterzooi is a traditional Belgian stew that’s both comforting and flavorful. This recipe combines chicken or fish with vegetables, cream, and herbs to create a rich and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs (or 1 pound of fish, such as cod or haddock)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, celery, and potatoes)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add chicken (or fish) and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables, chicken broth, and cream. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let stew for 20-25 minutes or until the meat is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley or chives.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Speculoos cookies with cinnamon spice
Bring the flavors of Europe’s festive traditions into your kitchen with these deliciously spiced Speculoos cookies, infused with the warmth of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking soda
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, cream butter and sugars until light and fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix in the dry ingredients until a dough forms.
5. Scoop tablespoon-sized balls of dough onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving 2 inches between each cookie.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Belgian chocolate mousse with dark cocoa
Experience the rich flavors of Belgium with this decadent chocolate mousse recipe, made with dark cocoa powder and whipped cream. This indulgent dessert is perfect for special occasions or a sweet treat any time.
Ingredients:
– 8 ounces high-quality dark chocolate (at least 70% cocoa), broken into small pieces
– 1 cup heavy whipping cream
– 2 large egg whites
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 teaspoons dark cocoa powder
Instructions:
1. In a double boiler or a heatproof bowl set over a pot of simmering water, melt the chocolate, stirring occasionally.
2. In a separate mixing bowl, whip the heavy cream until soft peaks form.
3. In another bowl, whisk together the egg whites and granulated sugar until stiff peaks form.
4. Fold the whipped cream into the egg mixture until combined.
5. Melt the butter and mix with the cocoa powder to create a smooth paste.
6. Fold the melted chocolate into the whipped cream mixture until well combined.
7. Spoon the mousse into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (melting the chocolate and whipping the cream)
Stoemp (mashed potatoes with vegetables and sausage)
This traditional Belgian dish combines creamy mashed potatoes with flavorful sausage and a variety of colorful vegetables, making for a satisfying and comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as carrots, peas, and corn)
– 2 pork sausages (Belgian-style or similar), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Boil the chopped potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pan, sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until softened.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they’re tender-crisp.
4. Add the sliced sausage to the pan and cook until browned.
5. Mash the cooked potatoes with butter, salt, and pepper.
6. Combine the mashed potatoes with the vegetable-sausage mixture.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Liege waffles with pearl sugar
Experience the rich flavors of Belgium with these classic Liege waffles, infused with a hint of caramelized sugar from pearl sugar. These crispy and fluffy treats are perfect for breakfast or as a sweet snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1/2 cup warm milk
– 2 large eggs
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Pearl sugar (about 1/2 cup)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat your waffle iron according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and yeast.
3. Gradually add warm milk, eggs, and melted butter. Mix until smooth.
4. Let the batter rest for 30 minutes in a warm place.
5. Place about 1/4 cup of batter onto the center of the waffle iron.
6. Sprinkle a few pieces of pearl sugar on top of the batter.
7. Cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the waffles are golden brown and crispy.
8. Repeat with remaining batter.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes to cook all the waffles.
Chicons au gratin (Belgian endive baked in cheese sauce)
This classic Belgian recipe is a simple yet elegant side dish that combines the sweetness of endive with the richness of cheese. Perfect for special occasions or everyday meals, Chicons au Gratin is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 Belgian endives
– 1/2 cup grated Gruyère cheese
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Trim the ends of the endives and cut them in half lengthwise.
3. In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the heavy cream and bring to a simmer.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the grated Gruyère cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the endive halves in a baking dish and pour the cheese sauce over them.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the endives are tender and the top is golden brown.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Belgian rabbit in prunes and beer sauce
A classic Belgian dish that combines tender rabbit meat with sweet prunes and a rich beer sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 rabbit (3-4 lbs), cut into 8 pieces (2 legs, 2 thighs, 2 arms, and 2 racks)
– 1 cup prunes, pitted
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup beer
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp mustard powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season rabbit pieces with salt and pepper.
3. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened. Add prunes and cook for 2 minutes.
4. Transfer the skillet mixture to a Dutch oven or casserole dish. Add beer, chicken broth, brown sugar, mustard powder, and rabbit pieces.
5. Cover and bake for 45-50 minutes or until the rabbit is tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Paling in ‘t groen (eel in green herb sauce)
This classic Dutch dish is a delightful combination of tender eel, fresh herbs, and a tangy sauce. Serve it as an appetizer or main course for a memorable culinary experience.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of smoked eel
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of fresh parsley, chopped
– 1/2 cup of fresh chives, chopped
– 1 tablespoon of white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the parsley and chives; cook for an additional 2 minutes until wilted.
4. Place the eel slices in the skillet and spoon some of the herb mixture on top.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the eel is cooked through, flipping occasionally.
6. Serve with a drizzle of white wine vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Belgian meatballs in tomato sauce
Rich and flavorful, these Belgian meatballs are a staple of Flemish cuisine, perfect for a comforting meal. Serve with crusty bread or over mashed potatoes for a satisfying treat.
Ingredients:
– 500g ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 egg
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 400ml tomato sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Mix ground beef, onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
3. Form into meatballs, about 40g each.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook meatballs until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
5. Transfer meatballs to the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve with tomato sauce and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Vol-au-vent (puff pastry filled with chicken and mushrooms)
This classic French dish combines tender chicken and earthy mushrooms with flaky puff pastry, making it a perfect appetizer or main course for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a separate pan, sauté the mushrooms and onion in butter until tender. Add thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Spoon the mushroom mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Top with diced chicken.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press edges to seal.
7. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and cut a few slits for steam escape.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Belgian asparagus with hollandaise sauce
This classic Belgian recipe combines tender asparagus with a rich and creamy hollandaise sauce, perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence. The combination of textures and flavors will surely impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Belgian asparagus, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup egg yolks
– 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the asparagus until tender, about 4-6 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt 1 tablespoon butter over low heat. Add flour and whisk to combine. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually add egg yolks, whisking constantly. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. To assemble, place cooked asparagus on serving plates and spoon hollandaise sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley or chives.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Tomate-crevette (tomatoes stuffed with shrimp salad)
Experience the flavors of France with this delightful Tomate-Crevette recipe, where succulent shrimp salad fills the sweet and tangy tomatoes. A perfect appetizer or light meal that combines the freshness of seafood with the comfort of a warm summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 4 large ripe tomatoes
– 1/2 cup cooked and chilled shrimp
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the tomatoes and scoop out the insides, leaving a shell about 1/4 inch thick.
3. In a bowl, mix together the shrimp, parsley, lemon juice, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each tomato with the shrimp salad, mounding it slightly in the center.
5. Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender and the filling is heated through.
7. Garnish with chives if desired. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Belgian apple tart with cinnamon
A classic Belgian dessert that combines sweet and tangy apples with a hint of warm cinnamon, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust. This simple yet elegant tart is perfect for serving at any gathering or as a special treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 package puff pastry, thawed
– 2-3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a bowl, mix together sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and salt.
4. Arrange apple mixture in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Fold pastry edges up over apples to form a crust.
6. Brush crust with beaten egg for golden brown finish.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until pastry is golden brown and apples are tender.
Couque de Dinant (hard almond biscuits)
These crispy, flavorful biscuits are a staple of Belgian cuisine, with a rich history dating back to the 17th century. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can create these addictive treats at home.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup confectioner’s sugar
– 1/2 cup finely ground almonds
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Water, as needed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, confectioner’s sugar, ground almonds, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add softened butter and beaten egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until a dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until it becomes smooth and pliable.
5. Roll out the dough to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes using a cookie cutter or a glass.
6. Place biscuits on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Belgian cherry beer cake
Rich and moist, this Belgian cherry beer cake combines the flavors of dark chocolate, sweet cherries, and a hint of hops from the beer. Perfect for special occasions or as a unique dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, at room temperature
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup cherry beer (such as Chimay Blue)
– 1 cup pitted cherries, chopped
– 1/2 cup dark chocolate chips (at least 60% cocoa)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9-inch (23cm) round cake pan and line the bottom with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine milk, eggs, and cherry beer. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in chopped cherries and dark chocolate chips.
6. Pour batter into prepared pan and smooth top.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Let cool in pan for 10 minutes before transferring to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Discover the rich flavors and traditions of Belgian cuisine with these 20 delicious recipes. From sweet treats like speculoos cookies and Liege waffles to savory dishes like Flemish beef stew and moules-frites, this collection has something for everyone. Classic Belgian desserts like waterzooi and chocolate mousse are also included, along with hearty stews and casseroles perfect for cold winter nights. Whether you’re a fan of beer-braised meats or creamy sauces, these authentic recipes will transport your taste buds to the heart of Belgium.