Belgian waffle

Worlds Fair - Belgian Village (4626896426)

Belgian waffle

A Belgian waffle is a type of waffle that is identified by its larger size, lighter batter, and higher grid pattern which forms deep pockets. These waffles are often enjoyed as a breakfast dish or dessert and are typically served with a variety of toppings such as whipped cream, fresh fruit, chocolate sauce, or maple syrup.

History

The Belgian waffle was popularized in the United States during the 1964 New York World's Fair by Maurice Vermersch and his family. They originally called it the "Brussels waffle," after the capital city of Belgium, but changed the name to "Belgian waffle" to appeal to American consumers who were not familiar with Brussels.

Characteristics

Belgian waffles are distinct from other types of waffles due to their:

• Size: They are larger and thicker than traditional American waffles.
• Texture: The batter is lighter, resulting in a fluffier texture.
• Grid Pattern: The deeper pockets are ideal for holding toppings.

Preparation

The batter for Belgian waffles typically includes yeast or baking powder as a leavening agent, which contributes to their airy texture. The batter is poured into a specially designed waffle iron that has larger grids than a standard waffle iron.

Serving Suggestions

Belgian waffles can be served in a variety of ways:

• Breakfast: Topped with butter and maple syrup, or with fresh fruits like strawberries, blueberries, and bananas.
• Dessert: Accompanied by ice cream, chocolate sauce, or whipped cream.
• Savory: Paired with fried chicken, bacon, or eggs for a savory twist.

Related Pages

• Waffle
• New York World's Fair
• Belgium
• Breakfast
• Dessert