Oliebollen

These are the Dutch version of doughnuts. They are traditionally eaten on New Year's Eve but you'll find them sold on street stalls throughout the cold winter months. The word oliebollen means ‘oil balls' but don't let that put you off – while they are deep-fried (like doughnuts), they are totally moreish. The dough, which has sugar and lemon zest added to it, may or may not have sultanas or other dried fruit, but the finished oliebollen should always be covered with plenty of icing/powdered sugar – don't treat yourself on your way to an important meeting! Eat them hot, straight from the food stall, or cold, with a cup of coffee (koffie).