The Medicinal History of Drop
Long before it became a sweet treat, licorice was prized for its medicinal properties. The use of licorice root, or Glycyrrhiza glabra, dates back thousands of years to ancient civilizations who used it to soothe ailments. In the Netherlands, this tradition carried through to the 18th and 19th centuries, where apothecaries sold licorice extract to treat coughs, sore throats, and stomach troubles. The perception of licorice as a healthful remedy helped it gain a trusted place in Dutch households.
From Remedy to Confectionery
As licorice transitioned from a pharmaceutical staple to a mass-produced confectionery in the 19th century, Dutch candy makers began adding sugar and other ingredients to make it more palatable. The Venco factory, founded in 1878, played a key role in popularizing licorice as a candy, especially during the Amsterdam flu epidemic of 1891, which drove up sales due to the belief in its medicinal benefits. This historical association with comfort and health cemented licorice's place in the Dutch psyche, setting the stage for its modern-day obsession.
The Unmatched Variety of Dutch Licorice
One of the most significant factors behind the Dutch love for black licorice is the sheer variety available. The Dutch market boasts hundreds of different kinds, ensuring there's a type for every preference, no matter how specific. This is a stark contrast to many other countries where the flavor options are limited.
- Zoete Drop (Sweet Licorice): Milder and sweeter, this version appeals to those who enjoy a less intense licorice flavor. Examples include honey licorice and mint licorice.
- Zoute Drop (Salty Licorice): A true Dutch classic, this contains added salt for a more intense, savory-sweet profile.
- Dubbelzoute Drop (Double-Salt Licorice): For the true connoisseurs and thrill-seekers, this variety has an extra dose of salt, offering a powerful, tangy kick.
- Salmiak Drop: Distinctive and sharp, this licorice is flavored with ammonium chloride (salmiak salt) and is particularly popular in the Netherlands and Scandinavia.
Dutch Licorice vs. American Licorice
There are significant differences between Dutch and American licorice that explain why a non-Dutch person may find the flavor surprising or even off-putting. The contrast is primarily in ingredients and flavor intensity.
| Feature | Dutch Licorice (Drop) | American Licorice |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Flavoring | Real licorice root extract, providing a rich, earthy, and complex flavor. | Anise extract, which is less expensive and readily available, resulting in a more straightforward, sweeter taste. |
| Saltiness | Can range from sweet to extremely salty, with added ammonium chloride for a sharp, pungent flavor in some varieties. | Generally sweet, with virtually no salty variations available in mainstream markets. |
| Variety | An extensive array of textures, shapes, and flavors, catering to a highly developed palate. | A more limited selection, often consisting of twists, ropes, and a few other standard forms. |
| Cultural Perception | A deeply ingrained cultural staple, evoking nostalgia and a sense of identity. | A polarizing niche candy with a smaller, more limited appeal. |
A Deeply Ingrained Cultural Tradition
Beyond its flavor, licorice's role in Dutch culture is paramount. It’s more than just a snack; it’s a social event. Bowls of drop are often shared at parties or placed on office desks, and it's a common staple on long car rides. For many Dutch people living abroad, a bag of licorice is a potent taste of home, evoking powerful feelings of nostalgia and comfort. The enduring love for licorice is passed down through generations, becoming a cherished piece of national heritage. The Dutch have a taste for bold, salty flavors that is thought by some to be linked to their history as a seafaring nation, accustomed to preserved foods and strong seasonings. For many, the strong taste is simply something that was acquired and enjoyed from childhood.
Conclusion: A National Obsession Explained
The Dutch love for black licorice is a fascinating story of history, cultural tradition, and personal taste. From its humble beginnings as a medicine sold by apothecaries, drop has evolved into a national icon with an incredible diversity of flavors. The nostalgic connection to childhood, combined with a cultural palate that appreciates strong, complex tastes, ensures that black licorice remains a quintessential part of Dutch identity. The next time you see a Dutch person happily enjoying a piece of dubbelzout, you'll understand that it's more than just a candy—it's a taste of history and home. For additional information on how salty licorice became a Nordic staple, you can read more on the BBC website.
