Liquorice: A Dutch Passion with Deep Roots
Liquorice and the Netherlands are inseparably linked. The black sweet, in all shapes and flavours, has grown into a symbol of nostalgia and national pride. Although liquorice is often seen as typically Dutch, it has a history that reaches beyond our borders. Why are we Dutch so fond of 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 in 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 also enjoys some popularity, but further south the sweet is virtually unknown. For many tourists, liquorice is an incomprehensible taste sensation: too salty, too strong, or simply too strange. The question is: why is liquorice so beloved here?
From Medicine to Sweet
Liquorice made its entrance in the Netherlands through pharmacies in the 18th and 19th centuries. At the time, 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 illnesses. 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 taste of liquorice is not for everyone. It is a delicacy you have to learn to enjoy, just like Brussels sprouts or chicory. In the Netherlands, liquorice is woven into the culture; children are introduced early to the different flavours. That "liquorice upbringing" explains why the Dutch continue to appreciate the sweet, while in other countries it often remains a niche product.
Southern Roots, Northern Love
Although liquorice is immensely popular in the Netherlands, the origin of this sweet lies in southern lands. Already in ancient Egypt, extracts of the liquorice root were used as medicine. The Greeks and Romans also saw the value of liquorice and used it for various ailments. In the 18th century, the Italian Giorgio Amarelli elevated the process of liquorice production, laying the foundation for the modern liquorice as we know it. It remains fascinating that a product with southern roots has gained such a prominent place in the Netherlands.
A World of Flavours
One of the secrets behind the popularity of liquorice is the enormous variety. From sweet honey liquorice to spicy salmiak and everything in between – there is a liquorice type for every mood and taste. This diversity makes liquorice accessible to a wide audience and ensures it never becomes boring. Moreover, the smell and taste often evoke nostalgic memories of the past, when grandma always had a bag of liquorice in her purse or you were treated to a sweet during a long car ride.
Liquorice as Cultural Heritage
In the Netherlands, liquorice is much more than just a sweet; it is 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 upon returning home, a familiar bite of liquorice feels like a warm welcome. That makes liquorice a unique product, both in taste and emotional value.
International Success
Although not everyone outside the Netherlands immediately falls for the pronounced taste of liquorice, international interest is growing. More and more people want to discover the "Dutch flavour," and for some, liquorice even becomes a favourite. This curiosity offers a great opportunity to introduce the world to our national sweet.