Boerenjongens is a traditional Dutch dish of brandy-based preserved raisins, often eaten during Christmas and previously served at weddings. It is easy to make with raisins, sugar, cinnamon, and alcohol, and can be stored for up to six months. Boerenjongens can be eaten plain or used as an ingredient in other dishes, and can be purchased online or in specialty Dutch food stores.
Literally translating to “farm boys,” boerenjongens is a dish of brandy-based preserved raisins. This dish is traditionally eaten during the Christmas holidays in the Netherlands. Sometimes called bridal tears, it was once often served at weddings. Used as both an appetizer and dessert, boerenjongens usually keep for months before being eaten.
With relatively few ingredients, boerenjongens are usually simple to make. Light or dark raisins can be used. In addition to raisins, sugar and cinnamon are usually added. Ground cinnamon or a cinnamon stick can be used, and some versions may omit the cinnamon altogether. While brandy is traditionally a key element in this dish, whiskey can be substituted.
To make boerenjongen, raisins and cinnamon are placed in a pan and barely covered with water. Then, the mixture is heated. The raisins swell as they cook and are subsequently drained. Once drained, the sugar is added and mixed until dissolved. Hence, alcohol is usually included. Some versions, however, allow the sugar-raisin mixture to sit in jars for two days before adding the alcohol.
Once complete, the mixture is placed in clean equal- or quart-sized jars and sealed tightly. Normally, boerenjongens can stay in the jars for one to six months before use. Some versions may allow you to consume the preserved fruits first. It is generally agreed, however, that boerenjongens are better the more they are allowed to sit.
While this dish calls for airtight jars, boerenjongens don’t require a container. Using alcohol, rather than a pressure-sealed container, does the job of preserving the raisins. Even if canning isn’t necessary, it’s still important to make sure the jars are extremely clean before the fruit is placed inside and sealed tightly afterward. This precaution ensures that nothing unwanted gets into the jars.
Boerenjongens can be eaten plain or used as ingredients for other dishes. When eaten plain, it is usually served in small glasses and eaten with spoons. It is also used as an ingredient in fruit pies or various types of puddings, such as buttermilk, amaretto or raisins. Boerenjongens can also be used as a topping for ice cream.
While not always easily found outside the Netherlands, boerenjongens can be purchased commercially online. Specialty Dutch food stores may carry jars. In some areas of the Netherlands, it is popular enough to have its own ice cream flavour.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
