Canada is one of the world’s most recognized countries. Popular for its vast natural beauty and as a home of very kind and welcoming people, the second-largest country in the world is among the most desired tourist destinations. With its super-safe, crimeless cities, mountains, forests, and lakes, Canada truly has it all.
However, although most people know where it is on the map, what the flag looks like, and even that it has two official languages, there is something truly wonderful about the country not many foreigners are familiar with. And that is ladies and gentlemen, the cuisine of Canada.
Canadian cuisine is quite diverse as they love it all. From meat and pastries to vegetables and sweets, Canadians truly know how to indulge. In this article, we will talk about all the things you should know about the food Canada eats, and tell you about their most favorite dishes. Still, the best way to experience it all is to travel there yourself and try these specialties first hand. In order to do that, you will need to obtain a Canadian visa and there is no better way to learn all about it at visa-canada.info.
Overview
Canadian cuisine varies greatly depending on which region you are located in. The basic parts of all of their food have roots in the English, Scottish, French, and the local native (First Nations) cuisines. The traditional cuisine of English Canada largely resembles the British cuisine with some aspects of American notes, while the French Canada od course takes after the world-famous French cuisine.
However, thanks to the many waves of immigration and their connections to the world, the multinational and multicultural contemporary Canada combines the traits of most world cuisines including the best things from all European, Asian, and Caribbean cuisines. The result of this special combination is a set of food you have mostly had many times before, made with a special kind of love and skill that only a Canadian can bring.
Without any further ado, it is time to present to you some of the best things to try once you step foot onto Canadian soil during your next trip. Remember, eating anything on this list with some genuine maple syrup and a glass of Canadian whiskey makes the dishes taste even better!
1. Poutine
The first thing you have to try is the famous poutine, a world-renowned Canadian meal containing lots of different food. Cheese curds, crispy fries, and rich and tasty gravy are a must, while the rest is up to you. Usual pairings and toppings include bacon, pulled pork, and different varieties of smoked meat. The average price is about $4.5, making it an affordable yet tasty solution whenever you crave it.
2. Bannock
Here is another versatile and popular Canadian meal that you can customize according to your needs and wishes. A bannock is a kind of bread that has its roots in the diet of the Aboriginal people of Canada. The modern variety includes heavier and denser versions of baked bread, as well as fried versions that are fluffy and crispy inside. Bannock is gaining prominence at the moment and has been for some time. It seems that every café and bakery in the country has its own variety with different meats, cheeses, and other toppings.
3. Nova Scotia Lobster Roll
The east coast of North America is famous for its lobster rolls, a favorite local dish no matter where you live, be it Canada or the USA. Everyone knows that in Canada, the best lobster rolls come from Nova Scotia since the East Coast lobsters are top-tier. If you are a fan of lobster or seafood in general, make your way to a Nova Scotian diner and order a lobster roll with some fries and lemon on the side. You will not regret it.
4. Montreal Bagels
The second-most populous city in Canada and the most populous in the province of Quebec, Montreal is a city great culture and diversity with tons of landmarks to see and plenty of things to experience. Around 50% of some 1.8 million people speak French in the city, with only 22.8% speaking English, making this one of the biggest French hubs on the planet. Therefore, it should not surprise that they make the best bagels in Canada. These bagels are baked in wood fire ovens, making them denser, thinner, and sweeter than American bagels. They usually come with sesame seeds or poppy richly sprinkled all over.
5. Saskatoon Berry Pie
Any pie lovers among you? We certainly love them! If you wish to try a new kind of pie that does not contain the usual fruit like apples, peaches, or blueberries, head on over to Saskatoon and try their signature Saskatoon berry pie. This berry is said to be very sweet with a flavor similar to almonds. Therefore, it is perfect for pies, and a single slice will change the way you think of pies in general. The city actually got the name after the pie, and not the other way around as things usually go.
6. Maple Taffy (Tire d’érable sur la neige)
If you want to make something than truly combines nature with the spirit of Canada, you would probably combine maple syrup and snow. Well, that is exactly what this unique treat is. However weird or funny it may sound, pouring boiling maple syrup over some snow and rolling it up with a popsicle as soon as it hardens it how you make it. What you are left with is a rich maple flavored caramel-looking dessert, soft and gooey. What else do you need?
7. Caesar Cocktail
To finish things off, we have to mention the national cocktail of Canada. However, this is everything but the usual cocktail you may expect. The drink itself contains vodka, clamato juice, Worcestershire sauce, and Tabasco. It is virtually a special, Canadian twist on the famous Bloody Mary. As it contains some of the best food dressings, it is a wonderful drink to have during brunch. Actually, most modern bars, pubs, and restaurants really changed the game when it comes to serving it. They began garnishing it with entire roast chicken pieces, hot dogs, burgers, onion rings, and fried shrimp. What you get is a full comfort meal, complete with the main dish, side dish, and an appropriately tasty yet regretful drink!
