Bringing Dutch and Belgian Comfort Food to Your New Home

Living abroad is exciting, but it can also be strangely emotional in the supermarket aisle. You might be settled in your new city, yet still miss the small, familiar tastes that made everyday life feel normal. For Dutch and Belgian expats, that often means the basics you grew up with, from hagelslag (chocolate sprinkles) on bread to speculaas (spiced cookies) with coffee.

The good news is that you do not have to wait for a friend to visit with an overstuffed suitcase. With a bit of planning, you can keep a taste of home pantry stocked.

Why these products matter

Food is routine, identity, and comfort. A familiar breakfast can anchor you on a stressful day, and known snacks can make a new place feel less foreign. For families, Dutch treats and Belgian specialties can also be a simple way to pass culture on.

A friend who moved from Antwerp to Singapore once told me that finding proper Belgian chocolate again felt like a small holiday.

Build a realistic pantry list

Before you start searching, decide what you actually miss. A practical starter list includes

• Breakfast staples such as hagelslag, peanut butter, and rusks

• Sweet favorites such as stroopwafels (syrup waffles) and speculaas

• Savory essentials such as mustard, pickles, and soup mixes

• Cooking helpers such as spice blends, gravy mixes, and cake mixes

• Belgian classics such as chocolate, waffles, and cookie assortments

If you celebrate Sinterklaas, keep a separate list for holiday items so you can order early.

Where to find Dutch and Belgian groceries abroad

Most people combine a few routes.

Local international stores

Big cities often have international supermarkets with a small Dutch or Belgian shelf. Great for quick fixes, but the selection can be limited and inconsistent.

Community swaps and group orders

Expat groups sometimes organize bulk orders to reduce shipping costs. This can work well, but it depends on timing and you may not always get the brands you want.

Online specialty shops

For a broader selection and reliable restocking, online shops are often the most practical option. Look for clear information about shipping, delivery expectations, and product authenticity.

Order smarter with a few habits

• Plan a monthly or seasonal box instead of ordering only when you run out

• Check best-before dates and store items well once opened

• Think in meal moments such as lunches, weekend treats, or baking days

• Start with sturdy pantry staples before ordering delicate items

A simple box that works for many expats

If you have a busy month ahead and want quick comfort food, a smart box could include soup mixes, gravy, spice blends, stroopwafels, and a few Belgian chocolates. Add one or two items you cannot find locally, and you have an order that feels both practical and comforting.

One convenient way to restock

If you want a single place that focuses on Dutch and Belgian products and ships worldwide, an online store built specifically for that purpose can be a good fit. It’s a place where expats and fans of Dutch and Belgian food can find familiar brands, pantry staples, snacks, and seasonal items.

To build your own box, browse the selection at the Dutch Expat Shop.

Keep a taste of home within reach 

Missing home foods is normal. Know what you miss, use local shops for quick finds, and rely on group orders or online stores for the items you cannot get nearby. With a clear list and a simple ordering routine, you can bring those small comforts into everyday life wherever you live.