Non-Vegetarian Dutch Recipes
Browse 8 non-vegetarian Dutch recipes — with photos, cook times and nutrition. Find an easy non-vegetarian Dutch dish for tonight.
Apple cake
This tender apple cake is a celebration of warm spices and tender fruit, where fluffy layers meet the delicate crunch of thinly sliced apples. A hint of cinnamon and a bright citrus kiss from lemon juice keep the flavors lively, while the cake’s airy crumb melts in the mouth. It’s the kind of dessert that fills the kitchen with the cozy scent of an orchard in autumn, yet comes together with simple, foolproof steps. Perfect with a dusting of powdered sugar, it’s a timeless treat worth savoring any time of year.
Kapsalon
The Kapsalon is a Dutch street food masterpiece—crispy fries blanketed with tender doner meat, fresh veggies, and melted Gouda cheese, all brought together with a bold drizzle of garlic and hot sauce. Each bite delivers a satisfying contrast of textures, from the crunch of the fries to the richness of the cheese and the savory depth of the spiced meat. It’s a dish that balances heat, tang, and creaminess in every forkful, making it irresistibly craveable. Worth every calorie, this hearty, flavor-packed creation is a must-try for anyone craving comfort food with a kick.
Dutch poffertjes (mini pancakes)
Dutch poffertjes are delicate, cloud-like mini pancakes with a tender crumb and just enough chew to hold their shape. Their flavor is subtly sweet, with a hint of vanilla and a faint nuttiness from the buckwheat flour, while the crisp edges from the hot pan add a satisfying contrast. Worth making for their irresistible texture alone, these bite-sized treats are best enjoyed fresh from the pan, dusted generously with powdered sugar for a simple yet elegant finish—equally perfect for breakfast or a light dessert.
Bitterballen (Dutch meatballs)
Golden, crisp on the outside and creamy on the inside, bitterballen are a Dutch pub classic—deep-fried meatballs with a rich, velvety ragù center bound by a silky roux. The first bite cracks through a shatteringly thin crust, releasing a savory depth of slow-cooked beef, caramelized onion, and a whisper of nutmeg, all brightened by fresh parsley. Each bite is a perfect balance of crunch and tenderness, making them irresistible alongside a cold beer or tangy mustard. Worth every minute in the kitchen, these addictive bites are ideal for sharing—or not.
Dutch stroopwafel
The Dutch stroopwafel is a delicate, lace-edged cookie with a luscious ribbon of caramel sandwiched between two thin layers of dough. Its texture is a perfect balance—crisp yet tender, with a gooey, buttery filling that melts into warm, molasses-rich sweetness with every bite. Worth the effort for its nostalgic charm and the way it elevates simple ingredients into something extraordinary.
Gevulde speculaas
Hey there, foodies! Today I'm sharing with you my take on the classic Dutch treat, Gevulde speculaas. Trust me, you're in for a real treat with this spiced cake filled with sweet almond paste. So, once I tried to rush the resting time for the dough and let me tell you, it was a disaster! The flavors just weren't as rich and developed as they should be. Lesson learned: patience is key in baking, my friends. Here's a little tip from me to you: when working with the almond paste, try adding a touch of almond extract for an extra punch of flavor. It's a game-changer, I promise! Now, follow the original instructions to mix your dough and let it chill overnight. Don't skip this step - the flavors need time to mingle and dance together. And when you're kneading that almond paste, don't forget to mix it with some beaten egg for a smoother texture. Your taste buds will thank you later, I guarantee it. Get ready to impress your friends and family with this Gevulde speculaas. Happy baking!
Snert (Dutch Split Pea Soup)
This rich, rustic Dutch split pea soup—known as *snert*—is a slow-simmered bowl of comfort, where tender pork, earthy leeks, and fragrant celeriac meld with starchy potatoes and sweet carrots. The result is a thick, velvety broth with layers of savory depth, punctuated by the occasional burst of smoky pork and a whisper of nutmeg for warmth. More than just a meal, it’s a dish that demands patience, rewarding the cook with a deeply satisfying, spoonable warmth that lingers long after the last bite. Worth the effort for its ability to transform humble ingredients into something deeply nourishing and timeless.
Stamppot
Stamppot is a hearty Dutch classic that transforms humble ingredients into a deeply satisfying meal. Creamy mashed potatoes are folded with tender kale and rich smoked sausages, creating a balance of earthy, savory, and slightly sweet flavors. A pinch of nutmeg adds warmth, while the texture—soft yet substantial—makes it the ultimate dish for chilly evenings. Worth making for its simplicity, comfort, and ability to turn basic pantry staples into something extraordinary.