During the ‘week van de smaak' in the Netherlands, blogger and foodie Paola Duque- Westbeek iwent out to taste the best of what Holland can lay on table, as long as it is seasonal, organic and Dutch.

Dutch wine

The Netherlands is celebrated De week van de smaak, or The Week of Taste - a whole week devoted to good organic, seasonal food grown right here in The Netherlands from 24 to 30 September.

To kick of this delicious week, I visited the food fair held at Groeneveld Castle on Sunday. Groeneveld Castle is actually an estate that dates back to the beginning of the 18th century. We often go there on Sundays to walk through the magnificent, Baroque- style parks, but today it was all about the food.

There is a huge misconception about the Dutch not knowing cuisine. Well let me assure you that The Netherlands does indeed have a rich food tradition!

Floris van Dijck: Still- Life with Cheeses, Het Rijksmuseum

The Dutch have a history of enjoying good food and drink. As a matter of fact, I dare say that food porn originated in The Netherlands! Just think of the lavish arrangements of Dutch food displayed in 17th century banquets. Products such as aged cheeses, crusty breads and delectable fruit make us want to grab into these paintings and take a bite. In fact, all food painting thereafter was greatly influenced by the Dutch tradition of the 17th century. But I digress.

Sunday afternoon I got a chance to taste some of the treasures The Netherlands has to offer. Farmers (wooden shoes and all) from all over the country gathered at the Groeneveld estate to present their quality products.

Dutch cheese

I've tasted an array of fantastic cheeses, sharp and sweet mustards, juices made with the prettiest of apples, pears and currants, raisin breads, crunchy cinnamon rusks, honey and even wine!

I had no idea that The Netherlands has been working on establishing a wine tradition, but today I tasted a deep red Regent Barrique and a dry, citrusy Johanniter (which I’m sipping as I write).

I came home with a few jars of mustard, Dutch spice cookies in various shapes and sizes, Betuwse wine, a piece of nettled goat cheese and a load of information in folders about pure, honest Dutch food. Among them a few invitations to visit the Dutch vineyards next weekend. I don't think I can resist.

Here's to the Dutch and their awesome food!

For an impression of Kasteel Groeneveldfestival, click here, and have a piece of Gouda while you watch! 

More information

29 September is the ‘Lekkerste’ Saturday: Over a hundred health food shops across the Netherlands are celebrating their nutritious and tasty wares this Saturday. Check out a this list for a store near you.

De week van de smaak website is at www.weekvandesmaak.nl

Blogger Paola Duque-Westbeek has a passion for good food and the Dutch culture of the Golden Age. She has obtained a BA in Dutch Studies at the University of Leiden with an emphasis on Dutch 17th century painting.  In the future she hopes to publish a book about pure food and eating well."

For more information on Paola and culinary delights visit Paola's blog
In my life.

Photos of Dutch wine and Dutch cheese by Paola Duque-Westbeek.

25 September 2007

[Copyright Expatica 2007]