Belgium boasts a lot of reasons for a
visit, but one thing that is sure not to be missed is a sampling of the famous
Belgian gastronomy. There are four things that come to mind when you think of
Belgian gastronomy, they are beer, chocolate, fries, and mussels.
Let’s start with beer. In Belgium it is more than just a drink, it is also a part of the culture. Beers are brewed in a variety of styles, from light blanche (wheat beer) to dark trappiste ales that are only brewed by monks according to old methods. You can enjoy at breweries and can create a trip that has you visiting the key beer areas, such as Brussels, Chimay, Dinant, Rochefort and Namur.
Belgian chocolate is recognized around the world. The country’s reputation for chocolate began in 1912 when the chocolatier Jean Neuhaus created the praline. Since then, Belgian chocolatiers have committed themselves to using extremely fine ingredients which provide for delicious chocolates. There are over a dozen famous chocolate shops in Brussels alone, as well as a museum and the opportunity to watch chocolate making.
Belgian fries are a delicious snack, and with over 5,000 friteries (fry stands) in the country, you can get your fill. Belgian fries are thicker what you think of as a French fry and are baked twice. They may be served with a meal or as a snack. They are enjoyed with a variety of sauces, from Russian dressing to mayonnaise.
The national dish of Belgium is mussels, or moules as they are know. From September to February they are in season and are a dish you won’t want to miss. They are served in a large steaming pot with a delicious broth. Belgian fries are typically served along with the mussels.
If you are planning a trip to Belgium to indulge in some of the gastronomic delights, you might consider staying in one our furnished apartment in Brussels. Such an arrangement gives you more space to relax than a typical hotel room, plus the comforts of home.
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