Belgium
The centerpiece of our Belgian breakfast is a fromage blanc tartine. A slice of buttered bread is topped with a fromage blanc spread and plenty of radish—a distinctly Belgian start to the day, unlike the sweet jam toppings often favored in France. We paired it with cramique, a raisin brioche baked in a loaf tin and topped with Belgian butter, as well as the ham and cheese essential to a Belgian table and smooth Belgian yogurt with the natural sweetness of milk. Brussels waffles, known for their light, crisp texture, and Belgian beer were also among the desserts and drinks on offer.
Belgium is only about the size of Kyushu, but its position beside France, Germany, the Netherlands and Luxembourg, with Britain across the Channel, has earned it the name the heart of Europe. Brussels is also a capital of the European Union and home to NATO headquarters. Germanic cultures in northwestern and central Europe and Latin cultures to the south have often been in conflict throughout history. Belgium lies at their meeting point, where the two have blended, an influence reflected in its varied food culture.
With thanks to
VISITFLANDERS
Belgian-Luxembourg Chamber of Commerce in Japan
Kaneka Foods Corporation
Mayumi Akagi