Scratch kitchens are the core of culinary excellence. They serve quality flavorful dishes made in-house from locally sourced fresh ingredients. At Taste of Belgium, we take pride in our innovative approach to our Belgian-inspired dining. Our unique blend of Belgian and American cuisines creates a never-experienced culinary journey. But that’s not all. We are also 100% committed to making sure that our patrons get the best Belgian-American fusion cuisine experience. That is why, our chef-led kitchen is also a scratch kitchen.
In this blog, let’s dive into what makes our scratch kitchen philosophy so special!
What is a Scratch Kitchen?
Scratch kitchens are the pinnacles of culinary craftsmanship, where every dish is prepared from raw, fresh ingredients. Here no pre-packaged or pre-processed ingredients are used. This approach is unique as the chefs have complete autonomy to bring their charm to all the dishes. All the sauces and doughs are made in-house, showing their dedication to this art.
Scratch cooking is a norm in many households to date. Our innovative Belgian kitchen is no different from its roots. Taste of Belgium prioritizes craft and flavor with meticulous attention to detail. This shines through every dish we make. Our Liège waffles are the prime example. Our dedication to the scratch kitchen philosophy ensures every waffle is fresh and flavorful.
The Role of Fresh Ingredients in a Scratch Kitchen
In our kitchen, fresh ingredients are the heart of every dish. They bring their charm with unique flavors and textures. But it doesn’t end there, they also deliver wholesome meals that are sustainable and made with care. We source our freshest ingredients from local suppliers ensuring every palate recognizes our commitment to quality and community.
Take our Farm 3-Egg Omelets for example. Each omelet is crafted with farm-fresh eggs. This creates a light and fluffy base that pairs perfectly with a variety of fillings. The Chorizo Omelet has our house-made chorizo, served without Belgian Frites. The classic Bacon & Cheese Omelet has smoked bacon while our Veggie Omelet features spinach and roasted Grape tomatoes.
Our commitment to fresh ingredients also shines through in our signature Waffle & Chicken. The chicken breast is hand-breaded, all-natural, and never-frozen and is served with our traditional waffle with a garnish salad of shredded carrot, cucumber, and crumbled blue cheese. Our Black Bean Burger is highlighted with our house-made black bean patty that is seasoned to perfection. This burger redefines the potential of plant-based dining.
Fresh ingredients also help minimize food waste – they can be used efficiently across multiple recipes. Supporting local farmers and suppliers strengthens community ties and fosters a sense of shared purpose. Fresh ingredients are rich in nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and anti-oxidants promoting overall health. They also taste better. Whether it is the vibrant sweetness of ripe tomatoes or the creaminess of freshly made farmer’s cheese, each ingredient is celebrated in its purest form.
Culinary Craftsmanship: The Art of Scratch Cooking
Mastering the art of scratch cooking. It is not about assembling the ingredients requires skills, patience, and a deep appreciation for food. It is about transforming them into something extraordinary and knowing how to create magic. At Taste of Belgium, we embody this craftsmanship in every dish we create.
Take our Liège waffles, for instance. The process begins with a dough that’s mixed, proofed, and carefully baked to achieve the perfect balance of fluffiness and caramelization. This level of attention to detail extends to every item on our menu, from a simple Mac & Cheese, a Brunch Burger to Steak & Eggs.
We’d argue that no French Croissant or German pretzel can quite match the indulgence of our Liège waffles. Our Banana & Nutella Waffle takes you on a ride to heaven, while our Strawberries & Cream Waffle is a burst of delight on every bite.
Whether it is crisp, sour, earthy, fruity, or rich, our Belgian brewing traditions have you covered on all types of beers too. While our beer is not made in-house, we source it directly from local brewers who cherish the art of scratch cooking as much as we do.
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Benefits of a Scratch Kitchen
A scratch kitchen isn’t just about food. It’s about your entire dining experience. It delivers an experience rooted in taste, health, sustainability, and unmatched customer service. Here’s why it matters:
Superior Taste and Quality
Scratch cooking unlocks flavors that can’t be replicated with pre-packaged ingredients. Every dish is crafted with care. This results in unparalleled taste and quality. By using fresh ingredients and preparing every component like sauces, batters, and dressings from scratch, flavors and textures become more robust.
There are no preservatives or artificial additives to mask the natural taste. Whether it is homemade pasta sauce for our pasta bolognese, or waffle batters for our Plain Waffle, Over The Top Waffle, S’more Waffle, and others, the difference in taste is distinct.
Health and Nutrition
Meals made from scratch are naturally healthier. There are no hidden sugars, salts, artificial flavors, or unhealthy fats that are often found in pre-packaged foods. For example, our flank steak is a great source of proteins and vitamins being fewer in calories and fat when compared to other cuts. There is greater control over portion sizes and ingredient quality, making these kitchens an ideal choice if you value clean eating.
Sustainability
Locally sourced ingredients reduce the environmental footprint associated with long transportation chains. By supporting local farmers and producers, scratch kitchens also contribute to the regional economies.
Enhanced customer service
Scratch kitchens are a celebration of culinary craftsmanship and care. Our customers appreciate knowing their meal is prepared with a great deal of attention. Knowing how the ingredients are sourced and dishes are made adds a sense of trust.
Bringing Scratch Kitchen Philosophy Home
While Taste of Belgium offers a one-of-a-kind experience, you can bring the scratch kitchen philosophy to your home too. The key is to try incorporating fresh ingredients in all your meals. If you have the time buy raw ingredients instead of the ready-to-make packets. You can also visit local farmers’ markets to get fresh seasonal produce instead of getting your produce from supermarket chains. Once you get the hang of it and realize the taste of food made from scratch is much better, you will never go back to the old, processed ways.
Try the Goodness of A Scratch Kitchen at Taste of Belgium
A scratch kitchen is more than a method. It is a promise. It is our way of saying that every bite is worth it and that every dish is crafted with purpose. Taste of Belgium is a scratch kitchen where Belgian and American cuisines are blended to bring the best of both worlds. We are a testament to quality, care, and creativity. By using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, we bring culinary craftsmanship to your plates with every dish. We celebrate flavor and community by thoughtfully curating our menu.
Every meal at Taste of Belgium is an experience to remember, even if it is some simple Belgian Frites. So what are you waiting for? Come join us for your next meal and experience what we are all about!
