If you are planning a trip to the Netherlands, there is one gastronomic delicacy you absolutely must try: the famous kroket. This Dutch delicacy is an irresistible croquette made from a combination of finely selected meats and enriched with a creamy roux, meat broth, spices and herbs. It is a carefully prepared mixture that has earned a prominent place in Dutch culinary culture, perfect for those seeking a succulent and quick lunch. That is why it is not surprising that as many as 300 million of these croquettes are consumed annually.
The history of this delicacy has its roots at least as far back as 1705, when its first recipe was transcribed in Louis XIV's cookbook. Although different from modern versions, this early "croquet" was egg-like in size and did not contain the traditional meat sauce in the filling, but was instead breaded and fried in lard. Instead, the first Dutch croquettes appeared in the 1830s, a time when leftover meat was made into breaded croquettes to preserve it longer. Initially considered an elegant side dish, they became a popular snack during World War II and have since become a staple of Dutch culinary tradition. Over the years, the variety of croquettes has grown considerably, including variations such as goulash, veal, chicken, satay, vegetable, cheese, potato, and even gingerbread. With so many options available, there is a croquette to suit every taste and occasion. No matter if you prefer it classic or with a creative twist, the Dutch kroket is a culinary experience not to be missed during your trip to the Netherlands.
Where to eat kroket?
FEBO
FEBO is a well-known fast-food chain with vending machines. You just enter select the number corresponding to the desired snack, enter the amount in coins or pay by card, a counter will open. It may not be the most romantic place not to eat, but certainly very convenient. A curiosity? The name FEBO comes from the street where the first outlet was opened in 1941, in FErdinand BOlstraat.
VAN DOBBEN
One of our favorite places to try a kroket is the famous Van Dobben. The place is located in the heart of Amsterdam, near Rembrandt Square. Here you can try kroket in its classic version, or in a vegetarian version, or with shrimp filling. If you want to try it Dutch style, you can do so by eating it with mustard. The restaurant has been a Dutch culinary icon since it opened in 1945.
NB: The restaurant is very small, has an accessible entrance, the door is opened manually, and there is no accessible bathroom.
PAR HASARD
Café Par Hasard is located in one of Amsterdam's most beautiful neighborhoods. It is famous in the city for its fried food, and especially for its krokets. It is a fry shop that has been transformed into a cafe`-restaurant with a relaxed and intimate atmosphere.
SNACKBAR
Snack bars are local, often open late into the evening, after you can buy hot snacks. French fries, kroketten, and frikandellen are the real stars of these bars. You can find a snackbar in every Dutch city. At its peak in 1997, there were about 6,000 snackbars in the Netherlands. Nowadays there are about 4800.
CAFE'
In most of the capital's mid- to high-end cafes you will be able to order a kroket. In these establishments it is usually served with toasted bread and salad. Ideal places where you can pair it with a good beer, during a quick but still stylish lunch break.