What Happens When You Eat Raw Herring The Dutch Way? (Hint: Delicious!)

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Discover the surprising health benefits, cultural richness, and biblical insights behind eating raw herring the Dutch way. Learn why this simple fish connects us to God’s provision, healing, and ancient traditions.

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What Happens When You Eat Raw Herring the Dutch Way? (Hint: Delicious!)

There are foods that surprise us not only with their taste but with the story they carry. For many travelers in the Netherlands, the first encounter with raw herring—the Dutch way—is unforgettable. You’ll often see locals holding a glistening herring by its tail, lifting it high, and taking a bite. At first glance, you might think: Really? Raw fish?

But what happens when you eat raw herring the Dutch way is more than a daring food adventure. It’s delicious, healing, and spiritually insightful—a reminder of God’s provision, just as He has always nourished His people with the gifts of the sea.

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The Dutch Secret: Why Raw Herring Works

Eating raw herring (often called Hollandse Nieuwe or “New Dutch Herring”) is not just a quirky food tradition. It’s packed with nutrients:

• Omega-3 fatty acids that support brain health and reduce inflammation.

• Vitamin D for strong bones and immunity.

• High-quality protein that strengthens the body.

For centuries, Dutch fishermen preserved and prepared herring in a way that made it both safe and delicious. What seems strange at first bite turns out to be deeply satisfying, even addictive.

And isn’t that often how God’s provision works? What seems unusual or even uncomfortable becomes a source of blessing, healing, and joy when we trust Him.

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Biblical Insight: Fish and God’s Provision

The Scriptures are filled with the imagery of fish, the sea, and God’s provision through them.

When Israel longed for food in the wilderness, God reminded them that He could provide in ways they never expected.

“The LORD said to Moses, ‘Has the LORD’s arm been shortened? Now you shall see whether what I say will happen to you or not.’” – Numbers 11:23

And in the Gospels, Yeshua used fish not only to feed the multitudes but also as a symbol of faith and calling.

When His disciples were weary after a night of catching nothing, Yeshua showed His power in a miraculous way:

“And He said to them, ‘Cast the net on the right side of the boat, and you will find some.’ So they cast, and now they were not able to draw it in because of the multitude of fish.” – John 21:6

The fish became a sign of abundance, restoration, and even identity for the disciples who would become “fishers of men.”

So, when we eat herring—or any fish—we are not just nourishing our bodies, but also remembering God’s eternal promise to sustain us.

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The Problem We Face Today: Disconnected Eating

Many of us live in a world where food is rushed, processed, and stripped of meaning. We eat for convenience, not connection. And often, our diets leave us more anxious, inflamed, and spiritually dull.

Raw herring challenges us to slow down and experience food as God created it: simple, whole, and alive. Just as Yeshua broke bread and shared fish by the Sea of Galilee, we, too, are invited to eat in a way that connects us back to Him.

“Then Yeshua took the loaves, and when He had given thanks He distributed them to the disciples, and the disciples to those sitting down; and likewise of the fish, as much as they wanted.” – John 6:11

This miracle reminds us that food is not just physical—it’s deeply spiritual. It’s God’s love, multiplied and shared.

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What Happens When You Eat Raw Herring the Dutch Way

When you taste raw herring the Dutch way, three things happen:

1. Your body is strengthened. Omega-3s and nutrients refresh your cells and calm inflammation.

2. Your courage grows. Eating something unusual pushes you to trust, explore, and embrace new experiences.

3. Your spirit is reminded. Every bite can point you back to the One who fills your nets, your stomach, and your heart.

It’s a taste of adventure, healing, and faith—all in one bite.

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How to Try Raw Herring the Dutch Way

If you’re ever in the Netherlands, look for the herring stands (haringkar). The traditional way is simple:

• Grab the herring by the tail.

• Tilt your head back.

• Take a bold bite.

If you prefer, it can also be served sliced with onions and pickles on bread (broodje haring). Either way, it’s delicious and satisfying.

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A Spiritual Reflection: From the Sea to the Soul

When you eat raw herring, remember that God often gives blessings that look strange at first but turn out to be exactly what we need.

Think of the manna in the wilderness—it wasn’t what Israel expected, but it was perfect for their journey.
Think of the disciples, tired and empty-handed, until Yeshua filled their nets.

Eating herring the Dutch way can be a living parable: God’s provision is surprising, nourishing, and deeply good.

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Final Encouragement

So, what happens when you eat raw herring the Dutch way? You taste more than just fish—you taste a story of provision, courage, and faith.

The Dutch discovered a way to honor the sea’s gift, and we, too, can honor the Giver of all good things. Whether in a bustling market in Amsterdam or in the quietness of your home, let every bite remind you:

“The eyes of all look to You, and You give them their food in due season. You open Your hand and satisfy the desire of every living thing.” – Psalm 145:15–16

 

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✅ Key Takeaway: Eating raw herring the Dutch way is more than a culinary experience—it’s a reminder of God’s healing provision for our bodies and our souls.

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