If you've ever visited the Netherlands, you've likely come across bitterballen, a beloved Dutch snack often enjoyed with mustard and a cold beer at a local pub. These crispy, bite-sized balls are crunchy on the outside and creamy on the inside, making them an irresistible treat. They are so popular you can find them on nearly every menu. But what exactly are bitterballen, and why are they so popular in Dutch cuisine?
What Are Bitterballen?
Bitterballen are small, deep-fried balls traditionally filled with a rich and flavorful meat ragout. The filling is made by simmering beef or veal in a roux of butter, flour, and beef broth until it reaches a thick, creamy consistency. The ragout is then cooled, shaped into small balls, coated in breadcrumbs, and fried to perfection. The result is a crunchy exterior that gives way to a deliciously soft and savory interior.
While meat (beef) is the traditional filling, you can also find modern variations of bitterballen filled with everything from mushrooms to pulled pork, and even vegetarian versions for those seeking plant-based options.
The Origins of Bitterballen in Amsterdam
Like many traditional Dutch foods, bitterballen have roots in practicality. They originated in the 17th century as a way to use leftover meat and create an easy-to-eat snack for social gatherings.
Their name is thought to come from the Dutch word "bitter," referring to the small, bitter liqueurs that were commonly served with these snacks. While bitterballen were once served with these liqueurs, today they are more commonly paired with beer or wine in pubs.
Where to Enjoy Bitterballen: Amsterdam's Favorite Snack
If you're visiting the Netherlands, you’ll find bitterballen in almost every pub, eetcafé (casual restaurant), or snack platter at a social gathering.
They are typically served hot and crispy, almost always fried, and accompanied by mustard for dipping. The mustard’s tangy flavor balances the richness of the ragout, creating the perfect pairing. To level up your bitterballen, be sure to add your favorite local beer.
Below are some photos of bitterballen from three different trips to Amsterdam (2024, 2023, and 2019).
Where to Find the Best Bitterballen in Amsterdam
What truly elevates bitterballen is the meticulous deep-frying process, which results in their perfectly crispy, golden-brown exterior. The frying technique is expertly timed to ensure the shell is crunchy without being greasy, while the interior remains deliciously soft and savory. This delightful contrast in textures, paired with the rich burst of flavor from the filling, makes bitterballen a standout in Dutch cuisine.
Moreover, bitterballen have achieved such iconic status in the Netherlands that they even have their own unofficial "Day of the Bitterbal," celebrated on April 1st. This playful tradition offers locals and food lovers a chance to honor and indulge in this beloved Dutch snack!
Here is a list of 5 iconic places to enjoy bitterballen in Amsterdam:
1. Café Cook
Nestled in the scenic square of the De Baarsjes neighborhood, Café Cook is a relaxed local favorite known for its sun-drenched seating and delicious snack offerings. Don't miss the oesterzwam (oyster mushroom) bitterballen, a popular choice among vegetarians. Whether you’re sitting inside or enjoying the terrace, it’s the perfect spot to unwind with friends and savor these classic Dutch bites while soaking up the laid-back local atmosphere.
Eetsalon Van Dobben is a well-known traditional snack bar located in Amsterdam, famous for serving some of the best Dutch comfort food since 1945. Located near Rembrandtplein, it’s a go-to spot for locals and tourists alike who are looking to indulge in authentic Dutch snacks in a no-frills, retro-style eatery.
One of Van Dobben’s signature offerings is the classic bitterballen, a deep-fried meat-filled snack that’s crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside, usually served with mustard. In addition to bitterballen, they are also renowned for their croquettes and sandwiches, particularly the broodje kroket (a crispy croquette sandwich).
3. Brouwerij 't IJ (my fav place!)
Brouwerij 't IJ is a popular and iconic craft brewery located in Amsterdam, known for its high-quality, locally brewed beers. Established in 1985, it is one of the city's oldest independent breweries and has gained a loyal following among locals and tourists alike. The brewery is located next to the De Gooyer windmill, one of the tallest wooden windmills in the Netherlands, giving it a unique and picturesque setting. This is my favorite place to pair this Dutch snack with beer!
4. Winkel 43
While Winkel 43 is best known for its authentic Dutch appeltaart, the bitterballen here are equally irresistible. This lively bar offers a relaxed atmosphere, perfect for unwinding and enjoying delicious local cuisine. Located in the heart of the Jordaan, this cozy café is conveniently situated near some of Amsterdam’s top attractions, including the Anne Frank House, the Sex Museum, the Amsterdam Cheese Museum, and Madame Tussauds.
After a pleasant walk through Vondelpark, make a stop at Gent aan de Schinkel, a quaint cafe next to the river that specializes in European food and Dutch classics. With a big outdoor seating area for the summer months, get yourself a table outside and order some of the fresh-out-the-fryer bitterballen. There are some cheaper options in the city to enjoy the savory snack, but not many places boast a pretty street-side set up under the Dutch sunshine close to Vondelpark.
Bitterballen: A Snack for All Occasions
Whether you're relaxing in a cozy Amsterdam café or hosting a gathering at a locals home, bitterballen are the ideal snack to share with friends and family. Their crispy, golden exterior and savory filling make them an irresistible favorite, and a must-try for anyone exploring the Netherlands.
So, the next time you're in a Dutch pub or in the mood for something indulgent, order a plate of bitterballen and savor an authentic taste of Dutch culinary tradition. It's a snack that truly captures the heart of Dutch comfort food.
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