Liquorice: A Dutch Passion with Deep Roots
Liquorice and the Netherlands are inseparable. This black sweet, in every shape and flavour, has grown into a symbol of nostalgia and national pride. While Liquorice is often seen as typically Dutch, its history stretches far beyond our borders. Why is it that we Dutch are so crazy about Liquorice, while many foreigners turn up their noses at it? Dive into the world of Liquorice and discover the story behind this unique treat.
Why the Netherlands Is World Champion at Eating Liquorice
With an average consumption of two kilos of Liquorice per person per year, the Netherlands tops the world rankings. In Scandinavia and Germany, Liquorice is also somewhat popular, but further south the sweet is virtually unknown. For many tourists, Liquorice is a baffling taste sensation: too salty, too intense, or simply too strange. So the question is: why is Liquorice so loved here?
From Medicine to Sweets
Liquorice made its entrance in the Netherlands via pharmacies in the 18th and 19th centuries. Back then, it was promoted for its supposed medicinal properties. Especially during the flu epidemic of 1890, Liquorice was consumed en masse, in the hope it would help against illness. What started as a medicine quickly grew into a favourite treat, and that love was passed down from generation to generation.
Liquorice: An Acquired Taste
The intense flavour of Liquorice isn’t for everyone. It’s a treat you have to learn to like, just like Brussels sprouts or Belgian endive. In the Netherlands, Liquorice is woven into the culture; children get familiar with the different flavours early on. That “Liquorice upbringing” explains why the Dutch keep appreciating this sweet, while in other countries it often remains a niche product.
Southern Roots, Northern Love
Although Liquorice is immensely popular in the Netherlands, the origins of this sweet lie in southern countries. As far back as ancient Egypt, extracts from the liquorice root were used as medicine. The Greeks and Romans also saw the value of Liquorice and used it for all sorts of ailments. In the 18th century, the Italian Giorgio Amarelli took the process of Liquorice production to the next level, laying the foundation for the modern Liquorice as we know it. It remains fascinating that a product with southern roots has earned such a prominent place in the Netherlands.
A World of Flavours
One of the secrets behind the popularity of Liquorice is its huge variety. From sweet honey Liquorice to punchy salmiak and everything in between—there’s a type of Liquorice for every mood and taste. This diversity makes Liquorice accessible to a wide audience and ensures it never gets boring. On top of that, the smell and flavour often bring back nostalgic memories of the past, when Grandma always had a little bag of Liquorice in her handbag, or you’d get a sweet during a long car ride.
Liquorice as Cultural Heritage
In the Netherlands, Liquorice is much more than just a sweet; it’s a piece of culture. It connects generations and gives a feeling of home. Many Dutch people take a bag of Liquorice on holiday to ease homesickness, and when they return, that familiar bite of Liquorice feels like a warm welcome. That makes Liquorice a unique product, both in taste and in emotional value.
International Success
While not everyone outside the Netherlands falls for the bold flavour of Liquorice right away, international interest is growing. More and more people want to discover the “Dutch taste”, and for some, Liquorice even becomes a favourite. This curiosity offers a great opportunity to introduce the world to our national sweet.