With the sweetness of golden waffles and crisp fries, Belgian cuisine has threaded its tender flavors into the American hearts, bringing warmth, comfort, and a touch of heritage to every bite. Belgian cuisine, celebrated for its rich, versatile, and diverse gastronomic heritage has transcended borders, leaving an indelible mark on the global food culture. From everyone’s beloved waffles and delectable chocolates to mussels and frites to beer and more, the Belgians know that one’s way to the heart is through his stomach because they have the whole world especially the Americans in a chokehold with their delicious food, ruling the American kitchen scene.
The Roots of Belgian Cuisine
Nestled in the heart of Europe, Belgium is a small yet incredibly culturally rich country, boasting culinary artistry that is well-loved by its people and worldwide. With influences from the neighboring countries- France, Germany, and the Netherlands, Belgian dishes are diverse, versatile, and wholesome- saving it a place on numerous restaurant menus all over the world.
Belgians are very serious about using fresh local produce, as Belgian delicacies showcase the innovative use of the freshest seasonal produce such as potatoes, cabbage, asparagus, and Belgian endives.
Belgian’s rich culinary history is shaped by its regional specialties reflecting the local cultures and geographic influence. Let’s take carbonnade flamande- a beef stew cooked in beer or moules frites, from Flanders displays the influence of the region’s brewing culture; or Brussels with French and Flemish influences has created iconic dishes like stoofvlees(beef stew) and, of course- how could we forget, the most iconic of all- Belgian waffles.
Belgium- a treasure trove of artisanal delights- is renowned for its chocolatey artistry- luxurious hand-crafted chocolates and oh yes, the beers- a class apart, one that none can come close to!
Belgian Staples That Shaped American Dining
Belgian staples, from velvety chocolates to crisp frites to the crowd-pleaser- waffles to bold beers and so many more, have not only graced the American menus but helped redefine the country’s gastronomic profile.
Waffles
Golden waffles, crisp and sweet, warmth and ineffable comfort in every bite- the Belgian waffle is a cult favorite here in America but its journey to the American kitchens is fascinating and layered. So how did the Belgians manage to steal the American hearts with their waffles? In 1962, a Belgian entrepreneur, Walter Cleyman introduced waffles with whipped cream strawberries marketed as “Bel-Gem” to the fairgoers at the Seattle World Fair. Belgian waffles’ fame skyrocketed during the 1964-1965 World’s Fair in New York when another Belgian entrepreneur, Maurice Vermersch introduced waffles to a much larger crowd which quickly became a star treat because it was waffle-y delicious (aha! You see that?)
Waffles are of 2 types- Brussels Waffle- light, airy batter, and rectangular, it is usually served with toppings like whipped cream, strawberries, or chocolate. Liege Waffle(our personal favorite!)- is denser, brioche-like dough and caramelized sugar pearls, served plain or with minimal toppings, a rich indulgent treat- crispy outside and soft and chewy inside- perfection in every bite making its way into the American brunch culture with its unique texture.
Fries
Belgium fries or frites, have been a popular choice for street food for ages, since the 17th century as believed when the locals of Meuse Valley in Belgium started slicing and frying potatoes. Belgian frites are vastly different from French fries- frites are traditionally thicker than French fries and often fried twice to be perfectly crispy outside and soft inside unlike the neighboring fries. Belgian frites are served in paper cones and with a variety of dipping sauces making it the icing on the cake, or should we say sauce on the frites? Sauces like andalouse, mayonnaise, and curry ketchup paired with frites inspired America’s concept of loaded fries which are usually topped with cheese, bacon, and other toppings of your choice.
Beer
Beer brewing is an art and Belgium takes it seriously. Belgium has elevated beer to an art form with its unique brewing traditions like Trappist and craft brewing. Trappist beers, brewed by monks in monasteries, are renowned ales with complex flavor profiles and exceptional quality, brewed in limited quantities. Belgian craft brewing showcases a diverse range of styles, from Dubbel and tripel ales to lambic and saisons. Belgian craft brewers experiment with wild fermentation, unique aging techniques, and ingredients, solidifying Belgium’s position as one of the world’s finest breweries where every sip tells a story of tradition and heritage. Belgian beer has undoubtedly influenced American craft breweries with its diverse styles, from fruity lambics to robust Trappist ales encouraging American breweries to experiment with ingredients, fermentation techniques, and aging processes. Belgian beer has brought sophistication to enjoying beer with its concept of beer pairings which has inspired American restaurants to serve dishes with beer to enhance flavors.
The Fusion of Belgian and American Cuisines
Belgian culinary techniques and flavors have beautifully and seamlessly blended with American cuisine resulting in innovative fusion dishes that celebrate both heritages. Belgian frites, golden and crisp, served with many dipping sauces have inspired the concept of the ever-so-popular loaded fries. Belgian beer stews like carbonnade have been revamped into American comfort food with local American ingredients while liege waffles have inspired many creative waffle-based dessert creations all over America, and have evolved into trendy breakfast and brunch options.
Belgian Cuisine in Modern American Food Trends
Belgian cuisine aligns perfectly with current American food trends with an emphasis on artisanal, locally sourced, and high-quality ingredients. Belgium is renowned for its craftsmanship and focuses on quality which is reflected in its traditional dishes, such as its artisanal cheeses, stews, frites, beers, and waffles, which resonates with the American trend of farm-to-table dining, with growing demand for sustainable and fresh, locally sourced ingredients. All this makes Belgian cuisine naturally cut out for the modern American food trends.
With brunch culture trending in America, Belgian waffles especially liege waffles have become a popular choice for brunch and breakfast platters for their versatility whether you like savory or sweet. The rise of gastropubs in America has brought Belgian beer and frites to the spotlight, the forefront of dining experiences elevating the Belgian classics to modern culinary highlights. Gastropubs emphasize high-quality dishes and craft beverages making Belgian beer a perfect fit for its diverse range and complexity. It is usually paired with a gourmet version of frites offering a unique twist on the traditional Belgian classics.
Why Belgian Cuisine Resonates with Americans
Belgian cuisine boasts a universal appeal because it strikes the perfect balance between comfort and sophistication, offering hearty dishes warm sweet waffles, crispy frites, and savory stews that feel just like home. , without compromising on sophistication with their hand-crafted chocolates, artisanal cheeses, and expertly brewed beers. Whether it is the indulgence of waffles or savoring a Trappist ale, Belgian cuisine has something to offer for everyone, earning universal appeal.
Belgian cuisine fosters a special cultural connection through the shared joy of eating. Be it Belgian frites or sweet Belgian waffles, these dishes bring people together. From Belgium to America, these dishes break down borders, creating a sense of belonging, and uniting people over the simple pleasure of good food.
Belgian cuisine has redefined the American food culture by introducing unique flavors, culinary craftsmanship, and classic dishes. The influence of Belgian beers has been revolutionary for the American craft brewing scene. Belgian craftsmanship has inspired a newfound appreciation for artisanal foods.
Taste of Belgium, here in Cincinnati, offers the perfect gateway for Americans to dive right into the Belgian culinary experience. From their famous Liege waffles, known for the caramelized sugar with a crispy exterior and soft interior to the crispy golden frites, we bring all of Belgium to you in just one bite. Pair it with a curated selection of Belgian beer and you’re in for an immersive dining experience, a perfect blend of the finest Belgian culinary traditions and the modern American food culture.
Craving Belgian flavors? Taste of Belgium invites you to savor the best of Belgium, from Liege waffles to crispy frites to Belgian beers. Now it’s your turn!-share your favorite Belgian-inspired dishes and stories with us. Let’s make every bite unforgettable. Place your order now!
