POFFERTJES, TULIPS & CHEESE

There are certain joys in life—simple, soulful, and deeply meaningful—that I hold close to my heart. Today, I want to share three of them: poffertjes, tulips, and cheese. On the surface, they may seem like small delights, but for me, they represent something greater—a love for culture, for beauty, for stillness and gratitude. They reflect my heritage, my faith, and the place I call home.

Let’s begin with the tulip.

Most people know it as a national Dutch symbol—bright, elegant, standing proudly in fields and gardens across the country each spring. But fewer know that the tulip originally journeyed here from the heart of the Ottoman Empire. A gift of beauty that crossed continents and cultures, the tulip is more than a flower—it’s a symbol of connection.

To me, the tulip carries deep meaning—not just as a national treasure, but as a bridge between worlds. Rooted in the East, embraced in the West, it reflects the harmony I strive for in my own life: to walk proudly as a Dutch Muslim, grounded in my Islamic faith, and deeply connected to the land I call home. In Islam, the tulip has long been admired for its delicate form and divine symmetry—a reminder of the beauty of creation, the mercy of the Creator, and the importance of reflection. Every spring, when I see tulips bloom, I’m reminded of renewal, of faith, and of the quiet grace of shared heritage.

And then there are poffertjes—warm, soft, and gently sweet. A taste of comfort. These little golden clouds take me back to childhood memories, local markets, and the cozy heart of Dutch culture. They’re humble but joyful, and in their simplicity, they remind me how sweetness in life often comes from the smallest things. Just a plate of warm poffertjes, a dusting of sugar, and time shared with others—that’s enough to create a moment of peace.

Then, of course, there is cheese. My deep and lasting love.

Dutch cheese in all its variety—from young and mellow to old and bold—has taught me to appreciate patience, craft, and tradition. But my love doesn’t stop there. I adore the sharp character of red and white cheddar, the gentle mystery of Austrian smoked cheese, and the soft, velvety richness of cheeses like Camembert and Brie. Each one tells a story—of land, of time, of care.

One of my favorite ways to enjoy cheese is to prepare a carefully arranged cheese board: slices of aged cheese alongside creamy rounds, a handful of roasted cashews, and a drizzle of golden Boyne Valley honey. Add a few crisp table crackers and it becomes more than a snack—it becomes an offering. A small moment of reflection and gratitude. No need for extravagance. Just nourishment with intention, beauty in balance, and a moment to be fully present.

Cheese, tulips, and poffertjes—they are each part of my story. They remind me that joy can be found in both tradition and transformation, in staying rooted and reaching out. As a Dutch Muslim, I cherish the way these elements reflect both where I come from and who I am today. They carry the warmth of culture, the beauty of faith, and the richness of living with meaning.

So here’s to these little joys that speak so loudly. To the tulip—an Ottoman gift now blooming proudly in Dutch soil. To poffertjes—a sweet symbol of comfort and community. And to cheese—a celebration of taste, heritage, and togetherness.

May we always find beauty in the things that connect us. And may we never stop sharing what we love, with open hearts and thankful hands.