What are the basics of Belgian Waffles?
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Direct Answer: The basics of Belgian waffles primarily involve two main types: the Brussels waffle, which is light, crispy, and rectangular, and the Liege waffle, which is denser, sweeter, and contains pearl sugar. Brussels waffles are typically served on a plate with toppings like powdered sugar or cream, while Liege waffles are often eaten plain by hand as a sweet street snack.
What is a Brussels Waffle?
A Brussels waffle is a light, airy, and crispy waffle made from a thinner, yeast-leavened batter. It is rectangular in shape with deep pockets.
- Texture: Light and crunchy.
- Serving Style: Served on a plate, typically dusted with powdered (icing) sugar.
- Toppings: Optionally served with fresh cream, chocolate sauce, or strawberries.
- Availability: Often served in tearooms or restaurants from the afternoon onwards (around 2pm).
Sometimes you get the cream on top:
What is a Liege Waffle?
A Liege (or Luikse) waffle is a rich, dense, and sweet waffle made from a brioche-like dough rather than a batter.
- Key Ingredient: Pearl sugar (chunks of sugar) embedded in the dough that caramelize when cooked.
- Texture: Chewy, dense, and sweet.
- Serving Style: Eaten out of hand, often sold at street stalls or vendors.
- Variations: Sometimes half-dipped in chocolate.
What are other types of Belgian Waffles?
While Brussels and Liege waffles are the most common, there are other varieties and modern adaptations.
- Waffle on a Stick: A convenient street snack, often covered in chocolate. (Note: Be careful not to bite into the stick!)
- Siska Waffle: A heart-shaped waffle famously from the Siska establishment in Knokke.
- Prepackaged Waffles: Soft waffles (good for toasting) or vanilla-filled waffles, such as those from the Lotus brand.
December 20, 2023 ∙
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