Here's what waffles look like in nine places around the globe.
Stroopwafels are the waffle of the Netherlands.
While stroopwafels originated in Gouda , you might notice the big, flat syrup filled waffles all over the Netherlands, including Amsterdam. You can eat them as is for an extra crunchy treat, or cover the opening of your mug filled with piping hot, fresh coffee to let the steam warm and soften the cookie while melting the gooey center that holds the two thin halves together.
Belgian Waffles are world famous.
Its safe to say that everyone has heard of the original creators of the giant, fluffy waffles with plenty of deep grooves to soak up all the butter, fruit, whipped cream, or chocolate you pile on top.
In Belgium, the waffles were first made in the Middle Ages and were sold as crispy and rich street-side snacks by vendors outside Churches, according to UNESCO.Today, they are still often sold on street carts. Although delicious plain, you can drizzle a little chocolate and sprinkle powdered sugar on top to make it an even sweeter snack on the go.
Chicken and Waffles come in many varieties in the US.
Americans just seem to love those salty sweet collaborations, so pairing waffles with pieces of savory, crispy chicken is a match made in heaven.
Wherever it came from, it's without a doubt a popular American meal.
Rosettes are crispy Scandinavian waffles.
Often seen at fairs and festivals in the US is the Scandinavian version of the waffle; rosettes. Rosettes are a crispy, deep fried sweet made with a specific iron and doused in powdered sugar or icing. After using the boiling oil to heat the iron, its dipped into the cake mix, then promptly put back into the extremely hot oil to create a brittle shell.
Pizzelles are an Italian treat.
The famous Italian treat is somewhere between a soft, chewy cookie and a thin waffle. The specific pressed pattern and unique flavors set them apart from other waffles. They can come in a variety of fresh flavors like chocolate, vanilla, citrus, caramel, sweet anise, and so much more. Top them with a pinch of sugar and these mild, breakable sweets are perfect to enjoy with coffee.
Taiyaki are Japanese waffles.
Flickr/Takanori Nakanowatari
Belgium isnt the only place rocking the street vendor waffles. Japan has a popular grab and go waffle called Taiyaki , thats actually shaped like a fish, served hot, and stuffed with a red bean filling. It might not sound that appetizing, but if youve ever tried the filling in mochi cookies or tasted red bean ice cream, the red bean filling is actually very sweet and delicious.
Kanom Rung Peung is a coconut waffle from Thailand.
Thailand created their own coconut flavored version of a waffle called kanom rung peung , which means beehive because the look of the waffles slightly resembles one. If you love the strong flavors of creamy coconut milk and sweet veggies traditionally found in Thai cooking, youll have to give their coconut based version of a waffle a try.
The Egg "Bubble" Waffle originated in Hong Kong.
Flickr/Public Domain/bhupendra singh
Traditionally called the egg waffle, this treat originated in Hong Kong and is super light, doughy, and fluffy. It's often stuffed with ice cream making it an extravagant treat.
Waffle Po de Queijo is a savory waffle from Brazil.
The famous Brazilian cheese waffle , usually made with Parmigiano-Reggiano, takes cheesy starches to the next level. You can turn them into a dessert by spreading a flavorful fruit jam on top, eat them for dinner with a protein, or just eat them as is because chances are you wont even want to bother with the toppings when the smell of cheesy dough is in the air.
