Belgium and I have history. After spending three years in the land of beer, chocolate and waffles, our family returned home to Austin last year.
The Liège Waffle, which could be found on every street corner, was the one delicacy our family craved most from this pint sized country. But after discovering a little food trailer in Lake Travis, our craving is now in submission.
Unpack the suitcase and leave your passport behind, you no longer need to fly across the Atlantic to experience an international culinary treasure.
Because of their popular handcrafted pizza, you may not have noticed the special confection that makes an appearance one day a week at Backdraft Pizzeria.
Liège Waffles
This treat has a unique ingredient that sets it apart from the common waffle — sugar pearls. When the dough begins to cook, the sugar pearls burst and caramelize which adds an intensity to the flavor.
Done well, the finished waffle is pillow soft with pockets of crisp and crunch from the sugar pearls. Confident in their deliciousness, these waffles can be consumed either plain or with toppings.
The Taste Test
The morning I arrived with my girls, we were greeted by Scarlett, a luster of spunky brown curls sprung from under her pale pink floral knit hat. Her bright eyes, accompanied by a Cheshire grin and genuine demeanor made for a great first impression. She exudes happiness.
Like the trailer park where Backdraft Pizzeria resides, the waffle menu is simple and straightforward; half a dozen specialty waffles and the ability to craft your own.
Picnic tables offer a casual place for you to relax. You may want to indulge in a game of circular horseshoes while you wait.
You’ll only have time for a few rounds before your tray of delicacies are brought to the table by a ginger bearded man with a t-shirt dusted in flour.
If you’re more of a traditionalist, you can opt for the “Plain Jane.” Just as the name suggests, your waffle won’t have any frills, except strands of scented steam you haven’t experienced on this side of the ocean; the delicate, sweet combination of yeast and caramelized sugar is nirvana for your taste buds.
You can also sample a few different toppings; strawberries and chocolate and Biscoff cookie spread (Biscoff is a traditional Belgian spice cookie) topped with hand-whipped cream.
Izak’s appreciation for the Liège Waffle developed from living in a country nestled north of Belgium — The Netherlands. Realizing there was no one else in Austin giving this Belgian treasure the limelight it deserves, he and his wife decided it should be added to the menu.
Like the tiny country who created this soft doughy treat, your opportunity to consume this delicacy is tiny, Saturdays from 9am-11am (or until sold out).
Thanks to Izak and Scarlett, the husband and wife who own Backdraft Pizzeria, the tasty delights of the Liège Waffle are yours to treasure and savor. No passport or suitcase required!
