Ask a Dutchie what he wants on his sandwich and chances are the answer will be cold cuts. Yes I know, we have a reputation for being cheese lovers (go figure) but really, open up a typical Dutch lunchbox and you’ll find one or two sliced varieties nestled in between the bread.

Many therefore will also be familiar with the Dutch cold cuts brand Stegeman which has been around since 1858. And as of recently the company now runs a shop-slash-restaurant, aptly named Fam. Stegeman, right smack in the middle of Utrecht, on one of the nicest squares in town, behind city hall. In summer THE place to sit for hours on end on one of the terraces watching life go by.

I’d made a mental note to visit Fam. Stegeman when I first saw they were refurbishing the lovely old building but much to my pleasure I actually got invited through Instagram to attend a little tasting.

Chef Michiel explained to me they would like to inspire people with their products and show them the many possibilities cold cuts actually have, not just as filling for sandwiches but for actual culinary cooking purposes. Their menu certainly gives very appealing options. I tasted the sandwich of the month December and got very tempted to ask for more.

Michiel and his team don’t shy away from experimenting, their brownie with crispy bacon went down a treat and as for Michiel’s Instagram ‘Crazy or Good’ challenge: adding salty liquorice to a dish is indeed rather difficult but I loved the end result.

Fam. Stegeman is a wonderful addition to the square, with a very friendly atmosphere, ideal for coffee breaks and lunch and as a bonus they also do take-away sandwiches. In the evenings they cater typical Dutch dinners and organize workshops.

Now, if only they get that soy milk situation sorted out chances are you will find me on a regular basis with my laptop at that perfect spot near the window.

Sevi

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