Dutch Beer and Food Pairing – Perfect Combinations

The Netherlands is known for its rich beer culture, which dates back centuries and includes some of the world’s finest brews. From crisp lagers to complex ales, Dutch beers are as diverse as the country’s culinary traditions. Pairing these beers with traditional Dutch foods enhances both the flavors of the food and the beer, creating a symphony of taste that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re indulging in hearty snacks like bitterballen and kroketten or savoring the rich flavors of Dutch cheese, the right beer pairing can elevate the experience. Here’s a look at some of the best Dutch beers and how they pair with classic Dutch dishes.

Dutch Beer Culture: A Brief Overview

Dutch beer has long been a source of national pride, and the country boasts an impressive array of breweries. Famous names like Heineken, Amstel, and Grolsch are internationally recognized, but the Netherlands is also home to smaller, artisanal breweries producing unique, craft-style beers. The Dutch beer scene is diverse, offering everything from light, crisp lagers to dark, rich stouts and complex Belgian-style ales.

While the Netherlands is often associated with lager-style beers, the country’s beer culture is evolving, with more attention being given to unique craft beers, many of which are influenced by the rich brewing traditions of neighboring Belgium. With such variety, pairing Dutch beer with traditional food is a rewarding experience that can bring out the best in both.

Perfect Pairings for Dutch Food

1. Bitterballen and Dutch Pilsner

One of the most iconic Dutch snacks, bitterballen are crispy, deep-fried meatballs filled with a savory mixture of beef or veal ragout. These delicious little bites are a favorite at bars and cafes across the Netherlands, often served with mustard for dipping. To complement the richness of bitterballen, pair them with a classic Dutch pilsner.

Recommended Beer: Heineken or Grolsch. These pale lagers are light, crisp, and slightly bitter, which perfectly balances the deep-fried richness of the bitterballen while refreshing the palate between bites.

2. Kroketten and Dutch Amber Ale

Similar to bitterballen, kroketten are deep-fried snacks, but they come in a cylindrical shape. The filling usually consists of beef or chicken ragout. The crunchy exterior and soft interior of kroketten need a beer that has both malty sweetness and a good level of bitterness to balance the flavor. An amber ale is the perfect match.

Recommended Beer: La Trappe Amber. This Belgian-style Trappist ale is malty with caramel sweetness and a hint of bitterness that complements the savory richness of the kroket. Its smooth mouthfeel cuts through the fried coating, making every bite more enjoyable.

3. Dutch Cheese and Belgian-Style Ale

Dutch cheeses are some of the finest in the world, and the Netherlands is famous for varieties like Gouda, Edam, and Leyden. Gouda, with its creamy texture and nutty flavor, pairs wonderfully with a beer that has a bit more body, such as a Belgian-style ale. The slight sweetness and fruity notes of these ales complement the flavors in the cheese without overpowering it.

Recommended Beer: Brand Dubbel. This dark Belgian-style ale has malty sweetness and a hint of dried fruit, which enhances the richness of the Gouda or Edam. The complexity of the beer also matches well with stronger cheeses like Leyden, which has added spices like cumin.

4. Haring and Light Lager

In the Netherlands, haring (raw herring) is a traditional delicacy, often eaten with onions and pickles. While the idea of eating raw fish might seem unconventional to some, it is a beloved treat in Dutch culture. The delicate flavor of the herring requires a beer that is light and refreshing, without overwhelming the taste of the fish.

Recommended Beer: Amstel Light. This light lager has a clean, crisp profile that cleanses the palate and allows the subtle flavor of the herring to shine through. The slight bitterness of the beer enhances the freshness of the fish, while its effervescence offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the onions and pickles.

5. Stamppot and Dutch Strong Ale

Stamppot is a traditional Dutch comfort food made of mashed potatoes mixed with various vegetables like kale or sauerkraut, often served with smoked sausage. This hearty dish pairs best with a stronger beer that can stand up to its rich, savory flavors. A Dutch strong ale provides the perfect balance of malt sweetness and bitterness to complement the comforting, earthy flavors of stamppot.

Recommended Beer: Amstel Bock. This seasonal dark beer is rich and malty, with flavors of caramel and dark fruits that perfectly match the earthy vegetables and savory sausage in stamppot. The beer’s subtle sweetness also complements the saltiness of the sausage, making it a perfect pairing for this beloved Dutch dish.