Recommended sushi restaurants in Belgium
Characteristics of Belgium’s Cuisine
Belgium: A Small Country Rich in History and Culture
Belgium, a small country located in Western Europe, covers an area of about 30,000 square kilometers. It has a population of approximately 11.5 million people, with its capital in Brussels.
Belgium has flourished as a central region of Europe since the Middle Ages. Its history has been shaped under various dominions, including the Duchy of Burgundy, the Spanish Netherlands, and the Austrian Netherlands.
Belgium is a multilingual nation with three official languages: Dutch, French, and German. This linguistic diversity reflects the country’s historical background and the cultural differences across regions. Belgium is known as an international city, home to the headquarters of the EU and NATO, and is famous as a land of exquisite food, including chocolate, waffles, and beer.
A Tapestry of Diverse Cultures
Belgium’s history is a tale of various ethnic groups such as the Celts, Romans, and Germans crossing paths and interweaving their cultures.
In 54 BC, the region of Belgium came under Roman rule after the conquest of Gaul, becoming known as “Gallia Belgica.” Subsequently, it was governed by a series of rulers, including the Frankish Kingdom, the Duchy of Burgundy, and the Holy Roman Empire.
In the 16th century, it became part of the Spanish Netherlands, experiencing turmoil from the Reformation. In 1830, it declared independence from the Netherlands, establishing the constitutional monarchy of the Kingdom of Belgium.
Belgium was a battleground in both World Wars, suffering significant damage during World War I. After the wars, it played a pivotal role in European integration, now serving as a key site for the European Union.
As a multilingual nation with French, Dutch, and German as official languages, Belgium’s regions each have their unique culture, highlighting the country’s diversity and coexistence.
With historical monuments, medieval streetscapes, and beautiful nature, Belgium is filled with attractions that allure numerous tourists.
A Journey Through the Kingdom of Gastronomy
Belgium is a country where rich nature and history create a splendid culinary culture. In the north, facing the North Sea, fresh seafood is abundant, while the south offers game and other unique regional ingredients.
Influenced by French cuisine, staple dishes include stews and gratins made with cream and butter. Signature dishes include moules-frites (mussels cooked in white wine) and waterzooi (a creamy stew of chicken and vegetables).
Speaking of Belgium, chocolate cannot be overlooked. Known as a leading chocolate kingdom, Belgium offers a variety of chocolates from long-established to innovative chocolatiers.
For dessert, Belgian waffles are a must-try. You can enjoy the fluffy Brussels waffle and the crispy Liège waffle, each offering distinct textures and tastes.
The Reception and Evolution of Sushi in Belgium
In recent years, sushi has become increasingly popular in Belgium, available not only in Japanese restaurants but also in supermarkets and department stores. Initially perceived simply as raw fish cuisine, it has gained recognition as a nutritious option amidst rising interest in healthy eating.
Belgian sushi often incorporates local ingredients and tastes, including salmon, tuna, shrimp, scallops, and white fish, alongside inventive creations using mayonnaise and cheese.
Belgium also hosts sushi chef training schools, with an increasing number of Belgian sushi chefs. These chefs blend traditional sushi techniques with their unique styles, creating distinctive sushi offerings.
Belgium’s Bliss: A Nation Captivating the Senses with Gastronomy
Belgium is cherished worldwide as a land of gastronomy. Its renowned products, including chocolate, beer, and waffles, enchant visitors.
Belgian chocolate, a hallmark of the nation, offers an exquisite taste from centuries-old traditions and selected ingredients. Numerous chocolate shops across the country showcase a wide variety of unique chocolates.
With over 800 beer varieties, Belgian beer presents a broad spectrum of flavors, from traditional monastery brews to fruity and spicy modern creations, increasingly appealing to a wider audience, including women.
The two types of Belgian waffles, Brussels and Liège, each provide a different culinary experience. The Brussels waffle is thin and crisp, while the Liège waffle offers a thicker, chewy texture. From cheese to speculoos to fries, Belgium boasts many more enticing specialties that reflect its rich culture and history, making them perfect souvenirs from a memorable trip.
