Eggo's Newest Waffles Are Inspired By A Classic Belgian Snack
Let's hear it for nooks and crannies. They don't always get their due when they do so much to enhance the experience of so many dishes. Think of the way an English muffin — or crumpet, if you will — allows glorious amounts of butter to soak into its doughy matrix. Think of how bits of stale bread drink up sweetened custard batter to become a decadent bread pudding. And, let us not forget the pockets dotting waffles and how they reserve for us beautiful puddles of syrup and butter.
The tradition of cooking dough or batter between two metal plates over a fire dates back to the ancient Greek obelios, explains Kitchn. Eventually, the practice evolved to include the use of dedicated irons that could be clamped together and were often decorated with patterns or etchings (via The National Museum of American History.) But Visit Belgium notes that it was an enterprising chef working for the prince-bishop of the Belgian city of Liège who hit upon a true triumph when he added large chunks of pearl sugar to his yeast-risen waffle batter, creating a deeply divoted treat with a pleasurable crunch of caramelized goodness.
Alas, Liège waffles were long available only in Belgium and a handful of eateries in the U.S. But that is set to change as Eggo has announced, via press release, the launch of a new Liège-style waffle for the American market.
A waffle for the hurried
Eggo Grab & Go Liège-Style Waffles are a departure from their traditional frozen waffles. The Liège-style will feature the iconic deep pockets and a non-uniform shape evocative of a made-to-order waffle purchased from a Belgian street vendor. They boast no artificial flavors or coloring agents. Quite the contrary, they're packed with real butter and pearl sugar for an authentic Liege waffle experience.
Another hallmark of Eggo's other products not found here is the need to heat the Liège-style waffle and eat it with a knife and fork. From frozen, they thaw in less than an hour and are intended to be served at room temperature, though a toaster oven can be used to speed thawing and warm the waffle. And, as the "Grab & Go" moniker implies, these waffles are meant to be eaten as they are in Belgium: by hand. Not only is this a nod to tradition, but a benefit for Americans young and old looking for a quick meal or snack that can accompany their busy lives.