Drop: A Dutch Passion with Deep Roots
Licorice and the Netherlands are inextricably linked. The black candy, in all shapes and flavors, has become a symbol of nostalgia and national pride. Although licorice is often considered typically Dutch, it has a history that extends beyond our borders. How come we Dutch are so crazy about licorice, while many foreigners turn their noses up at it? Dive into the world of licorice and discover the story behind this unique delicacy.
Why the Netherlands is the World Champion in Liquorice Eating
With an average consumption of two kilos of licorice per person per year, the Netherlands leads the world rankings. In Scandinavia and Germany, licorice also enjoys some popularity, but further south the sweet is virtually unknown. For many tourists, licorice is an incomprehensible taste sensation: too salty, too intense, or simply too strange. The question is: why is licorice so popular here?
From Medicine to Candy
Licorice made its entrance in the Netherlands via pharmacies in the 18th and 19th centuries. At that time, it was praised for its supposed medicinal properties. Especially during the flu epidemic of 1890, licorice was consumed en masse, in the hope that it would help against illness. What started as a medicine quickly grew into a favorite treat, and that love was passed on from generation to generation.
Licorice: An Acquired Taste
The intense taste of licorice is not for everyone. It is a delicacy that you have to learn to eat, just like Brussels sprouts or chicory. In the Netherlands, licorice is interwoven in the culture; children are introduced to the different flavors at an early age. This "licorice education" explains why the Dutch continue to appreciate the sweet, while in other countries it often remains a niche product.
Southern Roots, Northern Love
Although licorice is immensely popular in the Netherlands, the origins of this sweet lie in southern countries. In ancient Egypt, extracts of the licorice root were already used as medicine. The Greeks and Romans also saw the benefits of licorice and used it for all kinds of ailments. In the 18th century, the Italian Giorgio Amarelli took the process of licorice production to a higher level, laying the foundation for modern licorice as we know it. It remains fascinating that a product with southern roots has been given such a prominent place in the Netherlands.
A World of Flavors
One of the secrets behind the popularity of licorice is its enormous variety. From sweet honey licorice to spicy salmiak and everything in between – there is a type of licorice for every mood and taste. This diversity makes licorice accessible to a wide audience and ensures that it never gets boring. Moreover, the smell and taste often evoke nostalgic memories of the past, when grandma always had a bag of licorice in her bag or you were treated to a sweet during a long car ride.
Drops as Cultural Heritage
In the Netherlands, licorice is much more than just a sweet; it is a piece of culture. It connects generations and gives a sense of home. Many Dutch people take a bag of licorice with them on holiday to ease their homesickness, and when they return home, a familiar bite of licorice feels like a warm welcome. That makes licorice a unique product, both in taste and in emotional value.
International Success
Although not everyone outside the Netherlands immediately falls for the distinct taste of licorice, international interest is growing. More and more people want to discover the "Dutch taste", and for some licorice is even becoming a favorite. This curiosity offers a great opportunity to introduce the world to our national candy.