Now at Kaempff-Kohler in the city center
“De maatjes zijn gearriveerd”
Maatjes, “virgin herrings” or “new Dutch herrings,” are a traditional culinary specialty from the North Sea.
Young herrings are caught before the breeding season (from spring to August), at a time when they contain neither eggs nor milt. This characteristic gives them extremely tender flesh and a specific fat content.
Before being sold, they are then briefly salted, often frozen to eliminate bacteria, and matured.
Lovers of raw fish appreciate their melt-in-the-mouth texture and mild, salty taste.
Moreover, Maatje is very healthy because it is rich in omega-3.
The most classic way to enjoy maatjes is simply, served with hot boiled or steamed potatoes and raw onions. Others prefer them in a “Broodje,” garnished with onions and sometimes pickles.
Traditionally, maatjes pair well with dry white wines or well-chilled peket (gin).
But above all, it’s important to remember that maatje is eaten raw, by holding it by the tail and sliding it into your mouth.
Maatjes – now at Kaempff-Kohler in the city center.












