Belgium is known for its variety of excellent foods and beer, and one of the best known food items is the waffle. There are two types of waffles commonly seen throughout the country - Brussels and Liege styles. The waffles found throughout Belgium differ from those typically served in the United States, which are still commonly known as Belgian waffles.
Brussels Style Waffles (Gaufres de Bruxelles)
Brussels waffles are prepared with a yeast-leavened batter, rendering them light, a bit thicker, and more crispy when compared to other waffle variations. They are rectangular in shape with smooth edges, and usually eaten with a fork. Lightly dusted with powdered sugar or topped with whipped cream and strawberries, they are typically served for dessert or a snack.
Brussels waffles actually paved the way for the development of the American style Belgian waffles. Introduced at New York's 1964 World's Fair by restaurateur, Maurice Vermersch, Brussels waffles were sold as "Bel-Gem Waffles". Although the concept of waffles had been introduced to America back in the 1600's by settlers from Holland, Belgian style waffles really caught on after the World's Fair.
One of the big differences with the American style waffles involves the use of baking powder instead of yeast in the batter. American waffles also tend to be more thin and much more dense than Brussels style waffles.
Liege Style Waffles (Gaufres de Liege)
Liege waffles are the most common waffles found throughout Belgium, often available from street vendors and usually eaten by hand. Originally developed in the eastern Belgium city of Liege by the Prince-Bishop's chef back in the 18th century, Liege waffles are believed to be an adaptation of brioche style dough. The Prince-Bishop's chef was experimenting in the kitchen while cooking buns and ultimately developed this tasty treat.
In comparison to Brussels waffles, Liege waffles have uneven edges, are more dense, sweeter, and tend to be chewier. Instead of a typical waffle batter, it is more like a bread dough. The signature element in Liege style waffles is the caramelized pearl sugar, which comes from sugar beets. When baked, the sugar caramelizes on the outside of the waffle, making a sweet, crispy exterior.
Traditionally, these waffles are served plain, or topped with vanilla and/or cinnamon, but a number of bakeries serve the Liege style waffles with decadent toppings like strawberries, chocolate, bananas, and even whipped cream.
Liege style waffles can often be found prepackaged in grocery stores and bakeries, but nothing can compare to the aroma and warm taste when buying a freshly baked one.
Liege and Brussels waffles are both beautifully crafted treats, often leaving some foodies in a quandary when asked to pick a favorite one. Certainly a "must-have" treat when traveling through Belgium, try one of each and be prepared to fall in love with one of Belgium's best known specialties.
Erin De Santiago - Erin is a freelance travel, food/wine, & Disney writer in Taipei, Taiwan, who has traveled within 40+ different countries to date.
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