The Masters Behind the Bitterbal & Croquettes
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A New Era of Bar Snacks
At Master Bites UK, we celebrate the bitterbal and croquettes—two Dutch classics that bring something special to the UK’s vibrant bar culture. Our journey started with a passion for premium, shareable snacks, designed to fit seamlessly into the modern pub and bar experience.
A snack worth sharing
Every country has its favourite bar snacks—small bites that bring people together over good food and drinks. In the UK, the selection is diverse, from crisps to scotch eggs, each with its own loyal following. Bitterballen and croquettes are a natural fit within this tradition, offering a new way to enjoy a crispy, creamy, flavourful bite.
At Master Bites UK, we’re not here to replace anything—we’re here to add something exciting to the mix. With a rich, slow-cooked filling wrapped in a golden, crispy crust, our bite-sized croquettes are the perfect balance of texture and taste.
The history behind the bitterbal and croquettes
The bitterbal dates back to the 17th century, when Dutch kitchens perfected the art of turning slow-cooked meat into a rich, creamy ragout, coated in breadcrumbs and fried to perfection.
Where does the name bitterbal come from?
The name “bitterbal” comes from the tradition of serving it alongside Dutch herbal bitters, making it a popular pub snack for centuries.
The evolution of the croquette
The croquette, a slightly larger version, followed soon after, becoming a staple in Dutch eateries, bars, and bistros. Today, these crispy bites are enjoyed worldwide, and now, thanks to Master Bites UK, they’re making their mark in the UK bar scene.
The foundation of the perfect bitterbal and croquette
Unlike some variations made with mashed potatoes or a simple béchamel base, the true bitterbal and croquette are built on a luxurious, time-intensive ragout and roux foundation.
The difference between ragout, bechamel, and potato-based croquettes
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Ragout-based croquettes (Master Bites UK): The most premium and time-consuming method, ensuring a deep, indulgent flavour with a creamy texture.
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Béchamel-based croquettes: Simpler but lacks the depth and richness of a true ragout.
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Potato-based croquettes: More common in some regions, but with a firmer, less creamy texture.
At Master Bites UK, we accept nothing less than the best, using the traditional ragout and roux technique to ensure a rich, velvety bite in every croquette.
A connection to Manchester
When Rick moved to Manchester, he was immediately drawn to the city’s energy, community spirit, and incredible hospitality scene. Pubs, bars, and restaurants were filled with people enjoying great food and drink together. He saw an opportunity to bring something different—something that felt at home in the UK while staying true to its roots.
Together with Rob, he founded Master Bites UK, bringing bitterballen and croquettes to British bars, pubs, and restaurants. The goal? To offer a snack that pairs perfectly with pints, cocktails, and late-night conversations—something satisfying, full of flavour, and easy to share.
Why bitterballen and croquettes belong in UK bars
A well-rounded bar menu is all about variety, quality, and convenience. Bitterballen and croquettes fit effortlessly into this mix, offering a premium snack that’s quick to prepare, easy to eat, and packed with flavour. Whether served as a sharing platter, a pub snack, or a bite alongside drinks, they’re a welcome addition to any menu.
At Master Bites UK, we bring these time-honoured recipes to the modern bar setting—crafted with care, made with premium ingredients, and designed for effortless enjoyment.
Where to find bitterballen in England
For those searching for authentic Dutch bitterballen and croquettes in the UK, you’ve come to the right place. Our B2B shop is now open, allowing bars, pubs, and wholesalers to order premium bitterballen directly. Croquettes are coming soon, so stay tuned!
Partnering with one of the best in the Benelux
We’re proud to embark on this journey alongside one of the most respected and innovative bitterbal and croquette manufacturers in the Benelux, a company with decades of experience in crafting the finest quality snacks. Their expertise in flavour, consistency, and innovation ensures that every Master Bite delivers an exceptional experience.
If you’re in the hospitality industry and looking to add high-quality bitterballen and croquettes to your menu, we’d love to connect with you.