What are some traditional Belgian drinks to try alongside street food?

Discovering the Traditional Belgian Drinks

Belgium is known for its wide variety of beers, but there are also traditional Belgian drinks that are worth trying alongside street food. One of these is jenever, a liquor made from malt and rye that is similar to gin. Jenever has a long history in Belgium and is sometimes served in a tulip-shaped glass with a small amount of sugar and a slice of lemon.

Another traditional Belgian drink is the Dubbelsap, which is a mixture of apple juice and beer. Dubbelsap is a refreshing drink that is perfect for hot summer days. It is common to enjoy Dubbelsap alongside street food such as waffles or fries, as it complements the salty or sweet flavors of the food.

Finally, another traditional Belgian drink is Peket, a strong liquor made from juniper berries. Peket is often enjoyed as a digestif after a meal, but it can also be paired with street food. Its strong flavor can help to cut through the rich and heavy flavors of certain street foods, making it a great choice for some dishes.

Perfect Pairings for Street Food

Belgian street food is diverse and flavorful, and there are several traditional Belgian drinks that pair perfectly with different dishes. For example, beer is a classic pairing for Belgian fries, which are often served with a variety of sauces. A light lager or pilsner can help to cut through the richness of the fries and the creaminess of the sauces.

For savory street food such as croquettes or stoemp, a glass of red wine can be a great pairing. The tannins in red wine can help to balance out the richness of the dish and enhance its flavors. Similarly, a glass of white wine can be a perfect match for seafood-based street food, such as shrimp croquettes or fried calamari.

Finally, for sweet street food such as waffles or churros, a cup of hot chocolate or coffee is a common pairing. These drinks can help to balance out the sweetness of the dish and provide a comforting and satisfying finish to the meal.

Exploring the Flavors of Belgium

Trying traditional Belgian drinks alongside street food is a great way to explore the flavors of Belgium. Whether you prefer beer, wine, or liquor, there are plenty of options to choose from that can enhance the flavors of the food and provide a unique and memorable experience.

There are also several lesser-known Belgian drinks that are worth trying, such as Elixir d’Anvers, a herbal liqueur that can be enjoyed as a digestif, or Rince Cochon, a fruity beer that is perfect for warm weather. By exploring the world of Belgian drinks, you can discover new flavors and pairings that will take your street food experience to the next level.