A Dive into Belgium’s Best Chocolates and Beers

4 December 2024

Have you ever thought about what makes Belgium truly special? It’s not just the picturesque canals of Bruges or the medieval architecture of Ghent. If you're a foodie or a lover of all things delicious, your heart (and stomach) will be sold on Belgium’s two crown jewels: chocolates and beers. Yes, my friends, if there’s one thing Belgium does exceptionally well, it’s creating mouth-watering chocolates and crafting some of the world's finest beers.

But why chocolates? Why beers? And why does Belgium seem to excel in both fields? Well, grab a snack and a comfy chair, because we're about to dive deep into the world of Belgian indulgence.

The Belgian Chocolate Legacy: A Sweet Adventure

From Bean to Bar: The Belgian Way

Belgian chocolate isn't just any ordinary chocolate. It's got a rich history, steeped in tradition, and yes, a little bit of magic. The story begins in the early 1600s when cocoa beans first made their way to Europe. While many European countries adopted chocolate, it was Belgian chocolatiers who perfected the craft.

But how do they do it? Belgium sets itself apart by adhering to strict guidelines for chocolate-making. For starters, Belgian chocolate must contain at least 35% pure cocoa. And unlike mass-produced chocolates, Belgian chocolatiers focus on quality over quantity. They source some of the finest cacao beans from places like Africa and South America, paying careful attention to the entire process—from bean to bar.

The Praline: Belgium's Sweet Masterpiece

Want to know what really put Belgian chocolate on the map? Pralines. The praline is Belgium's answer to the chocolate conundrum—how can you make something already amazing even better?

In 1912, confectioner Jean Neuhaus created the first praline in Brussels. It was a filled chocolate made with a hardened outer shell and a creamy, flavorful center. And just like that, a legend was born. Nowadays, you can find pralines filled with everything from nut pastes to liqueur creams. Each bite offers a small adventure of flavor, waiting to be savored.

Some Belgian Chocolate Brands You Must Try

Alright, enough history. Let’s get to the good stuff: Where can you find the best Belgian chocolates? Well, you're spoiled for choice, but here are a few brands worth making room in your suitcase (or your stomach) for:

- Neuhaus: The OG of Belgian chocolates. If you want to taste history, this is where you should start. Try their assorted praline boxes; they’re legendary.

- Godiva: A more commercial option but still absolutely decadent. Plus, they have plenty of global outlets, so you can experience Belgium's best chocolates right at home.

- Leonidas: Known for offering a huge variety of chocolates at relatively affordable prices. And no, affordable doesn’t mean they skimp on quality.

- Pierre Marcolini: If you’re into artisanal chocolates and want something a little fancy, this is your brand. Made with single-origin cacao beans, each piece is a work of art.

The Art of Chocolate Pairing

Before we dive into the world of Belgian beers, let me just say one thing—Pairing chocolate with alcohol is an art form many overlook. In Belgium, though, they’ve got it down to science.

For instance, rich dark chocolate (above 70% cacao) pairs beautifully with robust red wines or even a stout beer. Meanwhile, milk chocolate with praline centers can complement lighter, fruitier wines or even a Belgian blonde beer. So, the next time you're sampling Belgian chocolates, don’t just reach for a coffee. Grab a glass of something a little stronger and see how the flavors intertwine!

Belgian Beers: Craftsmanship in a Bottle

Now, if chocolate is Belgium's sweetheart, beer is its proud, boisterous sibling. Belgian beer culture runs deep, and much like Belgian chocolates, there’s an enormous amount of variety to choose from. Whether you’re a fan of fruity, light ales or you love a bold, bitter brew, Belgium has something up its sleeve for you.

A Brief but Tasty History of Belgian Beer

Belgium's love affair with beer dates back to medieval times when monks first began brewing beer in monasteries. Why monks? Well, water was often unsafe to drink back then, and the beer-making process naturally purified it. Good beer, in a sense, saved lives!

Over time, Belgium became known for its diverse beer styles, from light and bubbly witbiers to strong Trappist ales. Belgium’s secret sauce? Tradition mixed with innovation. Belgian brewers have stuck to age-old techniques while subtly modernizing their recipes. You get the best of both worlds in every sip.

The Beer Styles You Need to Know

Belgium doesn’t just have a beer; it has hundreds of varieties. You could spend a lifetime sampling them all, but if you are short on time (or liver capacity), here are the must-try styles:

1. Trappist Beers

Brewed by monks, Trappist beers come with a seal of authenticity. Only twelve Trappist monasteries around the world are authorized to brew this unique beer, and six of them are in Belgium. Trust me—Trappist beers live up to the hype. They’re rich, complex, and have a profound spiritual vibe (literally).

Each monastery has its own style, but popular Trappist beers include Westvleteren (often hailed as the world’s best beer), Chimay, and Orval.

2. Lambic and Gueuze

Love something a little sour? Then Lambic beers are what you’re looking for. These are wild, funky beers brewed with spontaneous fermentation, meaning the yeast in the air does most of the work. The result is an incredibly unique flavor that varies from barnyard funk to fruity explosions.

Gueuze is a blend of young and old Lambics, creating a smooth, sparkling beer with a tart kick. It’s like champagne’s rebellious cousin.

3. Belgian Blonde Ales

Easy on the palate, Belgian Blonde Ales are the perfect entry point if you’re just starting in the world of Belgian beers. These beers are light, slightly fruity, and malty with a gentle bitterness. Think of it as Belgium’s answer to a summer session beer.

4. Dubbel and Tripel

For those who like their beers a bit stronger, Dubbel and Tripel are calling your name.

- Dubbel: Darker and maltier, with flavors of caramel and dark fruits. It’s like a warm hug on a cold day.

- Tripel: Golden, bubbly, and deceptively strong (often around 8-10% ABV). It’s got a whiff of spice and a fruity sweetness that makes you forget how high the alcohol content is.

Some Belgian Beer Brands You Must Know

Ready to embark on your Belgian beer journey? Here are some brands you'll definitely need on your radar:

- Westvleteren: If you want to try the Pope of Belgian beers, look no further than Westvleteren 12. This Trappist brewery is renowned for producing some of the finest (and most sought-after) beers in the world.

- Chimay: One of the more readily available Trappist beers, Chimay comes in several varieties, each with a slightly different twist on the classic style.

- Hoegaarden: Want something light and refreshing? Hoegaarden is a classic Belgian witbier, with subtle hints of orange peel and coriander. It’s perfect for sipping on a hot day.

- Duvel: A strong Belgian blonde beer that packs a punch with its 8.5% ABV but drinks incredibly smooth and crisp.

The Perfect Food Pairings for Belgian Beers

Craving something to nibble while you sip your Belgian beer? You’re in luck! Belgian beers are incredibly versatile when it comes to food pairings.

- Trappist Ales: Pair with hearty stews, roast meats, or strong cheeses. The beer’s rich, malty flavors hold up well against intense umami flavors.

- Lambics and Gueuzes: These beers pair great with fatty or rich foods like duck, blue cheese, or even a rich chocolate dessert. The acidity cuts through the richness, creating a perfect harmony.

- Blonde Ales: Lighter beers like Hoegaarden and Leffe pair well with seafood, salads, or even light snacks like olives and nuts.

Conclusion: The Best of Both Worlds

When it comes to delicious food and drink, Belgium is in a league of its own. Whether you're satisfying your sweet tooth with world-class chocolates or sipping a meticulously brewed beer, this small country offers a big experience for your taste buds.

The next time you’re in Belgium (or even if you're just picking up a Belgian product at your local store), remember: You're not just tasting chocolate or beer; you're indulging in centuries of craftsmanship and passion. So go ahead, treat yourself to a little bit of Belgium. You deserve it.