The Dutch approach to vegetarian eating
The Netherlands has emerged as a haven for vegetarian foodies, reflecting a growing global trend towards plant-based eating. However, what sets the Dutch approach apart is its focus on local, seasonal ingredients and innovative cooking techniques. From the city to the countryside, there is a wide range of exciting vegetarian offerings that are sure to make your visit memorable.
To vegetarians’ delight, the sandy soil of the Limburg province (bordering Germany and Belgium) is perfect for growing one of the Netherlands’ most proudly cherished specialties: asparagus. Like in France, Germany, and Belgium, the traditionally favored version here is white asparagus — also known locally as “white gold”. Chefs in the region are creating new dishes such as asparagus risotto with lemon and mushrooms or green asparagus deglazed with balsamic to enhance its nutty flavor. Asparagus season runs from April to late June.
Rotterdam
Rotterdam, the second-largest city in the Netherlands, is rapidly becoming a hotspot for vegetarian cuisine. One standout is Rotonde, a vegetarian restaurant that has been making waves in the local culinary scene. Rotonde offers a unique dining experience with its ever-changing menu that celebrates seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. The restaurant’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every dish, from their innovative plant-based creations to their zero-waste approach.
Amsterdam
In Amsterdam is De Kas, situated in a set of greenhouses dating back to 1926. The restaurant grows much of its produce on-site and at a nearby farm, ensuring the freshest ingredients possible. De Kas’s fixed menu changes daily based on the harvest, and the transparent greenhouse setting allows diners to feel connected to the source of their food, creating an immersive and educational experience.
A Hidden Gem in Nijmegen
Venturing beyond the well-trodden tourist path is De Nieuwe Winkel in Nijmegen, a city in the eastern Netherlands. This restaurant has been making waves in the vegetarian dining scene, offering a plant-based tasting menu that rivals some of the best restaurants in the country. Chef Emile van der Staak’s innovative approach to vegetarian cuisine has earned De Nieuwe Winkel widespread acclaim. The restaurant’s philosophy centers around the concept of “new nature cuisine”, which explores the potential of wild plants and forgotten vegetables. Each dish tells a story of the local landscape, with ingredients foraged from nearby forests and fields. Getting to De Nieuwe Winkel from Amsterdam is simple, making it an excellent option for a culinary day trip. From Amsterdam Central Station, take a direct train to Nijmegen, which takes about 1.5 hours.
These vegetarian offerings challenge the perception of Dutch food as being heavily meat-based, showcasing the rich variety of vegetables that the country’s fertile soil can produce.