The culinary specialties of Antwerp: a taste journey in Belgium

The culinary specialties of Antwerp: a taste journey in Belgium

When we think of Belgium, we often think of the famous waffles, crispy fries and tasty beer. However, the city of Antwerp offers much more than that in terms of culinary specialties. This port city located in the Flemish region is renowned for its rich and diverse gastronomy, mixing local traditions and international influences. In this article we will take you on a taste journey through the culinary specialties of Antwerp.

Let’s start with the emblematic dish of Antwerp: waterzooi. It is a stew made with chicken or fish, accompanied by fresh vegetables and potatoes. The creamy, smooth sauce is made with vegetable or fish stock, cream and eggs. This delicious and comforting dish is typical of Flemish cuisine and is often served with bread for dipping. You can’t visit Antwerp without tasting this traditional dish.

Next, let’s talk about stoemp, a comforting dish made with potatoes and vegetables. Potatoes are mashed and mixed with vegetables such as carrots, spinach or leeks. This simple but tasty dish is often accompanied by smoked sausages or meatballs. Stoemp is a staple of Belgian cuisine and is very popular with the people of Antwerp.

Now let’s move on to seafood, an essential specialty of Antwerp thanks to its proximity to the North Sea. Gray shrimp are particularly popular in the region. These small shrimp are cooked in a mixture of butter and parsley, then served with fresh bread. Their delicate taste and melting texture make gray shrimp a real treat for the taste buds. Mussels are also very popular in Antwerp, prepared in different ways: with beer, garlic or cream. You will find many restaurants specializing in seafood in Antwerp, where you can taste these marine delicacies.

When it comes to sweets, Antwerp does not disappoint. Belgian pralines are world famous and Antwerp chocolatiers are renowned for their know-how. Pralines are chocolate candies filled with different flavors: ganache, praline, caramel, dried fruits, etc. Antwerp chocolatiers are artists in the art of creating these little treats. They use high quality ingredients and are constantly looking for new flavors and textures to surprise the taste buds of chocolate lovers.

Speaking of sweets, it’s impossible to miss waffles. Belgian waffles are famous all over the world and Antwerp is no exception. These thick, crispy waffles are often served with whipped cream, fresh fruit or melted chocolate. They are a real temptation for gourmands and are an integral part of Antwerp’s culinary culture.

Finally, how can we talk about Belgian cuisine without mentioning beer? Antwerp is home to many breweries and cafes where you can taste a wide selection of Belgian beers. From light lagers to fuller-bodied dark beers, there is something for everyone. Trappist beers, brewed by monks in abbeys, are particularly appreciated by connoisseurs. The warm and friendly atmosphere of Belgian cafés is ideal for enjoying a good beer and discovering the different flavors and aromas that Belgium offers.

In conclusion, the culinary specialties of Antwerp offer a real taste journey in Belgium. From waterzooi to stoemp, from shrimp to pralines, including waffles and beer, there is something to satisfy all palates. Whether you are a fan of traditional dishes or sweet treats, Antwerp is a culinary paradise that will satisfy your taste buds. So, indulge in a gastronomic getaway to this Flemish city and discover the culinary treasures it has to offer.