From the dining hall to Sava’s Brunch, it has been made perfectly clear that waffles are an excellent way to satisfy that sugary breakfast craving you’re sure to have. They’re flakier than French toast and way more exciting than pancakes. And who doesn’t get a #foodgasm just thinking about butter and syrup oozing together in those perfectly square crannies?
I didn’t think waffles could get any better. That is, until I went to Belgium and had a waffle experience so tasty it can only be described as spiritual. Here are the secrets that make Belgian waffles so heavenly.
1. They’re not as big as American waffles
The waffles in Belgium are about half the size of American waffles and they’re in the shape of rectangles, not circles. Before you get all teary-eyed at the decrease in waffle size, as it turns out, less is more with this European classic. But, why?
2. They have twice the sugar
Photo by Megs Rowley
Powdered sugar alone is just too basic for Belgians. Liège waffles are caramelized with pearl sugar on the griddle, making them sweet even before adding the toppings. The best part? You can get them for as low as 1 euro in some places.
3. They add gelato
Photo by Megs Rowley
Okay, we lied, it’s really three times the sugar, not that that’s a problem. Gelato makes everything better (obviously) and especially when on top of an already sugary waffle. It’s like a waffle cone, but ten trillion times better. And did I mention the gelato in Belgium also has Belgian chocolate in it? Try not to drool.
4….And then they add more
Photo by Megs Rowley
I’m talking strawberries, bananas, chocolate sauce, hot fudge, caramel…basically anything your heart desires, you can add to a Belgian waffle. Are Belgians artists or geniuses for realizing the waffle’s true potential? I can’t tell, but your taste buds will be incredibly thankful they did.
5. They’re portable
In Belgium, waffles are mostly sold as street food, not breakfast. Although the ones with toppings are sold on plates, most are served with just a napkin and eaten with your hands. And because they’re fast food, they’re also structurally sound and ready to go wherever your European travels take you. Waffle on the go? We think yes.
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