Setting the Scene for the Perfect Dutch Dinner Party  

When throwing a dinner party, it is important to make sure that all the preparations have been taken care of to ensure that all your guests have a memorable and enjoyable experience. But, when it comes to hosting a Dutch dinner party, there are a few key things to keep in mind when it comes to planning, food and other elements. From selecting the right dishes to embrace the culture, to making sure that your dinner table is set up to the nines, this guide will help you become an expert in throwing the perfect Dutch dinner party.

Food – The Heart of Any Dutch Dinner  

Food is the heart of any dinner party, so it is vital that you choose the right dishes to make your Dutch dinner party successful. Here is a list of traditional Dutch dishes you can consider adding to your dinner menu:

Bitterballen – These deep fried snacks are a staple of any Dutch dinner. The filling can vary, but the most popular version is one filled with beef, pork, onion and spices.

Erwtensoep – This hearty split pea soup is packed with flavor and is perfect for those chilly winter evenings.
Drankjes – Beer, wine, jenever (a type of Dutch gin) and apple cider are all popular drinks at a Dutch dinner.

Stamppot – This is a mashed potato dish that is usually served with sausage or bacon and is a great way to warm up your guests.

Huzarensalade – This is a classic Dutch salad made with shredded beets, chopped onion, hard-boiled eggs, bacon and potatoes.

Poffertjes – These Dutch pancakes are often served as a dessert and are usually served with butter and powdered sugar.

Decor – Make Your Dinner Table a Visual Delight  

Once you have your menu sorted, it’s time to get the decorations up. Dutch culture is known for its vibrant colors and intricate patterns, so you’ll want to make sure the decor you choose fits in with this theme. Here are a few ideas:

Tablecloth – Choose a bright and colorful tablecloth that has a Dutch-inspired pattern. This will set the tone for the rest of your decorations.

Serving Dishes – Invest in serving dishes that have a Dutch theme. You can find these in stores like IKEA or online.

Vases and Candles – Place a couple of large vases filled with seasonal flowers around the table and set up candles in Dutch-style holders.

Cutlery and Glasses – Select cutlery and glasses in a warm metallic tone that won’t detract from the overall look of the table.

Music – Create a Relaxed Atmosphere  

The aim of a dinner party is to create a relaxed atmosphere for guests to enjoy each other’s company and your food. So, it’s important to select some music to set the tone. For a Dutch dinner party, you can choose some popular Dutch artists like Willeke Alberti, Nits and Andre Hazes, who are sure to be a hit with guests of all ages. Alternatively, you could even mix up some classic Dutch songs, and get your guests singing along!

Make a Feature of Dutch Drinks  

To make your Dutch dinner really stand out, why not make a feature of drinks? One option is to serve typical Dutch drinks like jenever (a type of Dutch gin) and Dutch beer. Additionally, you could also serve up some delicious Dutch cocktails. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

Holland Breeze – This is a classic Dutch cocktail made with jenever, triple sec and orange juice.

Dutch Mojito – To make a Dutch twist on the classic mojito, replace the standard rum with Dutch Jenever.

Dutchberry Martini – This delicious cocktail is made with raspberry liqueur, Dutch gin and berries.

By incorporating some of the tips above, you are sure to make your Dutch dinner party a success. Remember, it’s important to focus on the small details, as these will be what makes it extra special.

From carefully selecting the menu to creating the perfect atmosphere, with a bit of thought and preparation you are sure to throw a memorable Dutch dinner party that will have your guests talking for weeks to come!