The chapter Bitterballen, snacks, nostalgie en Holland-promotie (Bitterballen, snacks, nostalgia, and Holland promotion) in the publication ‘Wat schaft de pot‘ (What’s for dinner) discusses the role of traditional Dutch food, particularly bitterballen and other snacks, in maintaining nostalgia and cultural identity for Dutch emigrants, including those in Australia. Bitterballen, a popular Dutch snack made of fried, breaded balls filled with a savory mixture, is considered intangible cultural heritage in the Netherlands and a symbol of Dutch identity. In contrast, its larger cousin, the kroket, and other popular Dutch snacks like frikandellen are widely consumed but lack the same cultural status.
In the context of Dutch emigrants to Australia, especially after World War II, these foods played a significant role in helping migrants maintain a connection to their homeland. Over 180,000 Dutch migrants arrived in Australia during the 1950s and 1960s, often traveling by ship. Food served on these ships, particularly the familiar Dutch cuisine, was fondly remembered by many. Upon arriving in Australia, the quality of food in migrant camps and hostels often disappointed Dutch migrants, leading to complaints about the unfamiliar and poor quality of the Anglo-Celtic food they were served.
In Australia, Dutch migrants established small shops and cafes that sold Dutch products like bitterballen, kroketten, and other nostalgic foods, helping to sustain their cultural identity. Celebrations such as Sinterklaas were promoted to preserve Dutch traditions, with foods like oliebollen (Dutch doughnuts) playing a key role in these festivities.
Despite Australia’s push for assimilation through the White Australia policy, Dutch emigrants maintained many aspects of their culture, though they often felt like invisible migrants due to their high level of integration. Dutch food, particularly snacks like bitterballen, became iconic symbols of their heritage, offering comfort and a sense of identity in their new country.
This blending of nostalgia, food, and cultural identity highlights the importance of culinary traditions in the migrant experience, particularly for Dutch-Australians.
