National Dish Netherlands: Frikandel Speciaal (Recipe)
In this article
Meet the Frikandel Speciaal, one of the Netherlands’ best-loved snack-bar treasures! This savoury, deep-fried sausage is split lengthways, smothered in curry sauce and mayonnaise, then crowned with a scattering of finely chopped onions. Served alongside a generous pile of crisp chips, it is the kind of quick, satisfying bite that feels right whether you are grabbing a snack on the go or gathering friends around the table. Bring a taste of Dutch street food straight to your own kitchen.
About Frikandel Speciaal
The Frikandel Speciaal is more than just a dish; it is a genuine treasure of Dutch food culture. This spiced, deep-fried sausage is usually served with crisp chips and makes the ideal choice for a quick snack or a sociable get-together. Finished with onions and a distinctive sauce, it quickly becomes a firm favourite. Its appeal reaches well beyond the borders of the Netherlands, winning fans who appreciate the perfect balance of flavours and textures. It is one of the most recognisable stars of Dutch street food, sitting comfortably alongside a Frikandel or a portion of Bitterballen.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 2 frikandel sausages
- 300g chips
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 50ml frikandel sauce or curry sauce
- Mayonnaise, to taste
Shopping for the ingredients
When shopping for the Frikandel Speciaal, it is worth paying attention to the freshness and quality of your ingredients. Look out for good-quality frikandel sausages, which you may find in a Dutch grocery shop. Be sure to choose fresh onions and decent chips too, so you get the very best out of every mouthful. If you cannot track the ingredients down locally, there is always the option of ordering them online.
Preparing the dish
Preparing the Frikandel Speciaal is quick and straightforward. Start by chopping the onions, as they are easily prepared fresh to bring out their flavour. The chips should be made ready as well, so you can fry them at the same time as the sausages. With everything timed just right, you end up with a hot, crisp dish straight from the fryer.
Step-by-step instructions
- Heat the frying oil in a deep-fat fryer or a deep pan to 180°C.
- Fry the chips according to the packet instructions until golden brown and crisp.
- In the final minute of cooking the chips, add the frikandel sausages to the hot oil and deep-fry for around 4 minutes.
- Drain the finished chips and sausages on kitchen paper.
- Serve the sausages in the middle of the chips, scatter over the chopped onions and pour the frikandel sauce and mayonnaise generously over the top.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
For a gluten-free and lactose-free version of the Frikandel Speciaal, use gluten-free frikandel sausages and suitable sauces. Many supermarkets now stock such alternatives. Check the ingredient list and the labelling carefully when you buy. Homemade chips made from fresh potatoes are also a great gluten-free option. The method stays exactly the same and the flavour is in no way compromised.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
There are now plenty of alternatives to the classic frikandel for vegans and vegetarians. Use a plant-based sausage or a special vegetable frikandel, both of which are often available in health-food shops or well-stocked supermarkets. For the sauce, you can reach for plant-based mayonnaise and vegan ketchup to adapt the dish accordingly. With those swaps, nothing stands between you and a delicious Frikandel Speciaal.
More tips and tricks
There are plenty of tips and tricks to make the Frikandel Speciaal even tastier. Experiment with different sauces, such as a garlic sauce or a spicy one, to give the dish your own personal stamp. You can also dust the chips with seasoning or a little grated cheese. Always use fresh ingredients to achieve the best flavour. Getting the right combination of textures and aromas is what makes this treat truly unforgettable.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
The wonderful thing about the Frikandel Speciaal is how easily it can be tailored to personal preference. If you like bold, fiery flavours, add more spice or a touch of chilli to the sauce. For a milder version, hold back on the onions or use a sweeter sauce. You could even swap deep-frying for baking in the oven, which makes for a healthier option. The dish stays just as delicious, even when the cooking method changes.
Ingredient substitutions
There are often alternatives that let you vary the Frikandel Speciaal to suit your wishes. Instead of regular chips, you could use oven-baked sweet potato fries — much like the crisp potato bites in Aardappelkroketten. The frikandel sausages can also be replaced with similar products to suit different tastes. If you cannot find frikandel sauce, try a mix of ketchup and mustard. Variations like these enrich the dish and make it adaptable to every palate.
Drink pairing ideas
The right drinks can round off the Frikandel Speciaal perfectly. A cold beer is the traditional companion, as it complements the flavours beautifully. A fizzy apple juice or some sparkling water are refreshing options for anyone who prefers to go alcohol-free. Experiment with different drinks to find the combination you enjoy most. A fruity cocktail could also be an exciting choice for sociable occasions.
Serving and presentation ideas
The presentation of the Frikandel Speciaal can do a lot to whet the appetite. Serve the sausage and chips on a decorative plate and garnish the dish with fresh herbs such as parsley or chives. The sauces can be offered in attractive little bowls alongside for an eye-catching arrangement. A good squeeze of fresh lemon completes the picture and brings bright colour to the plate. That way a quick snack turns into a real gastronomic experience, fit to sit beside a Kapsalon or a portion of Patatje Oorlog.
A bit of history
The Frikandel Speciaal has its roots in Dutch food culture and has been part of the street food scene for many decades. The frikandel was originally conceived as a fast meal for workers and travellers. Over the years the dish evolved and cemented its place as a national classic. Its blend of spice and unmistakable sauce made it popular, and today you will find it in countless fast-food restaurants and snack bars. This tradition is an important part of the Netherlands’ culinary heritage and a proud example of Netherlands cuisine.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Frikandel Speciaal
The Frikandel Speciaal is a truly festive bite that delights with its varied preparation and its delicious flavours. Whether you opt for the classic version or a tweaked one, this dish is a wonderful way to experience the taste of Dutch culture. Its many adaptations — from vegan to gluten-free — make it a perfect choice for everyone. Enjoy a world cup of flavour right in your own kitchen and bring a piece of Holland home to your table.
