As the snowflakes gently fall onto the frozen tundra, there’s nothing like a warm and comforting meal to thaw your bones. And what better way to do that than with some deliciously authentic Canadian recipes? From classic comfort foods to indulgent desserts, Canada has a rich culinary heritage that’s sure to satisfy any appetite. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey across the Great White North, highlighting 20 mouth-watering dishes that are guaranteed to become new family favorites.
From traditional Indigenous fry bread to French-Canadian meat pies and indulgent seafood poutines, our list has something for everyone. Whether you’re a long-time Canadian resident or just looking to spice up your culinary routine, these comforting recipes are sure to bring a taste of maple syrup sweetness into your life. So grab a cup of hot cocoa and get cozy as we dive into the world of Canadian comfort food.
Poutine with Homemade Gravy and Cheese Curds
A staple of Canadian cuisine, poutine is a hearty dish consisting of crispy French fries topped with creamy cheese curds and rich gravy. This recipe takes it to the next level by using homemade gravy and cheese curds.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds potatoes
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cut the potatoes into fry shapes and soak in cold water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F (175°C).
3. Drain the potato fries and fry in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per batch.
4. While the fries are cooking, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
5. Add the flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
6. Gradually add the milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
7. Bring the gravy to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 10-15 minutes.
8. Assemble the poutine by placing the fries in a bowl, topping with cheese curds, and drizzling with homemade gravy.
Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
Butter Tarts with Flaky Pastry
A traditional Canadian dessert, butter tarts are a sweet treat filled with a rich, buttery mixture and topped with a flaky pastry crust. This recipe yields 12-15 tarts.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup melted unsalted butter
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add cold butter; use a pastry blender or fingers to work into coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice-cold water, stirring until dough forms.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to 1/8-inch thickness.
5. Cut into squares or circles for tart shells.
6. In a separate bowl, mix together sugar, brown sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract.
7. Place a spoonful of the filling mixture onto each pastry square, leaving a 1/2-inch border.
8. Fold pastry in half to form a triangle; press edges to seal.
9. Brush tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water).
10. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Nanaimo Bars with Coconut and Custard
Nanaimo bars just got a tropical makeover! This recipe combines the classic no-bake bars with the creamy richness of custard and the nutty flavor of coconut.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large egg yolks
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine graham cracker crumbs, unsweetened shredded coconut, and granulated sugar.
2. Pour in melted butter; stir until combined.
3. Press mixture into a lined or greased 8-inch square baking dish.
4. In a large bowl, whisk together confectioners’ sugar, heavy cream, egg yolks, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour custard mixture over crust.
6. Melt chocolate chips in microwave or double boiler; pour over custard.
7. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no-bake!)
Tourtière (French-Canadian Meat Pie)
Tourtière, also known as Quebec-style meat pie, is a beloved holiday tradition in many French-Canadian families. This hearty dish is perfect for a cold winter’s night and is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup onions, finely chopped
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, chopped onions, flour, salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
3. Mix well until just combined; do not overmix.
4. Add melted butter, chicken broth, and mashed potatoes. Mix until a thick paste forms.
5. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish. Fill with meat mixture and smooth top.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Maple-Glazed Salmon with Roasted Vegetables
Savor the sweet and savory flavors of this easy-to-make recipe, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. This Maple-Glazed Salmon with Roasted Vegetables is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Assorted vegetables (such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, bell peppers) for roasting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the glaze evenly over each fillet.
4. Roast vegetables of your choice in separate batches if necessary, tossing with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them out in a single layer on a large baking sheet.
5. Bake salmon for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through. Roast vegetables for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
6. Serve glazed salmon with roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Canadian Bacon and Cheddar Perogies
Elevate your perogy game with this savory and satisfying recipe that combines the richness of Canadian bacon with the creaminess of cheddar cheese. Perfect as an appetizer or main course, these perogies are sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of perogy dough (homemade or store-bought)
– 6 slices of Canadian bacon, diced
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oil in a deep frying pan to medium-high heat.
2. Roll out the perogy dough to about 1/8 inch thickness.
3. Place a spoonful of Canadian bacon mixture (diced bacon and shredded cheddar) onto the center of each dough circle.
4. Fold the dough over the filling, forming a half-moon shape, and press edges together with a fork.
5. Fry the perogies in batches until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes on each side.
6. Drain excess oil and serve hot with your favorite toppings or dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total, depending on frying time.
Beavertails with Cinnamon Sugar
Sweet Treats: Beavertails with Cinnamon Sugar
These soft, fluffy beavertails are elevated to a new level of deliciousness by the addition of a sweet cinnamon sugar coating. Perfect for a quick breakfast or snack, these treats are sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 package active dry yeast
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– Cinnamon sugar (see below)
Cinnamon Sugar:
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine yeast and warm water. Let sit for 5 minutes.
3. Add flour, sugar, and salt. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 10 minutes.
5. Roll out the dough into desired shape (e.g., long and thin).
6. Brush with melted butter.
7. Sprinkle cinnamon sugar evenly over the top.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
Split Pea Soup with Ham Hock
This classic split pea soup gets a rich and savory boost from the addition of a ham hock, making it a perfect comfort food for a chilly day. This easy-to-make recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried green split peas
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 ham hock (about 1 pound)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine peas, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
2. Add the ham hock and pour in the chicken broth and water.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the peas are tender.
4. Remove the ham hock and let it cool. Strain the soup and discard the solids.
5. Chop the cooled ham hock into small pieces and return them to the soup.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Montreal-Style Smoked Meat Sandwich
Experience the classic flavors of Montreal’s iconic smoked meat sandwich with this simple recipe. Thinly sliced, cured to perfection, and piled high on rye bread, this sandwich is a must-have for any food lover.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked meat (such as Zingerman’s or Mile End)
– 4 slices of rye bread
– 2 tablespoons mustard (optional)
– Pickle slices (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Slice the smoked meat into thin strips.
2. Lay a slice of rye bread on a flat surface.
3. Place 2-3 ounces of smoked meat onto the bread.
4. Add a dollop of mustard, if desired.
5. Top with pickle slices, if desired.
6. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Repeat for remaining sandwiches.
Cooking Time: None – simply assemble and serve!
Bannock (Traditional Indigenous Fry Bread)
Traditional Bannock Recipe (Fry Bread)
Bannock, also known as fry bread, is a staple food in many Indigenous communities across North America. This simple recipe yields a crispy and fluffy flatbread that’s perfect for sopping up soups or stews.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup warm water
– Vegetable oil or lard for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add in the warm water, stirring until a dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes, until it becomes smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 4-6 equal pieces, depending on how large you want your bannock to be.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil or lard in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Roll out each piece of dough into a ball and then flatten it slightly into a disk shape.
7. Place the bannock in the hot oil, flattening it with a spatula if necessary.
8. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes per batch
Serve warm and enjoy!
Canadian Caesar Cocktail with Clamato Juice
Experience the classic flavors of Canada with this refreshing cocktail featuring Clamato Juice.
Ingredients:
• 1 1/2 oz vodka
• 4 oz Clamato Juice
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Salt, for rimming glass (optional)
• Tabasco sauce, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rim a highball glass with salt, if desired.
2. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
3. Add vodka and Clamato Juice to the shaker.
4. Shake well for about 15-20 seconds.
5. Strain the mixture into the prepared glass.
6. Squeeze a lime wedge over the drink and drop it in.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None, as this is a mixed cocktail!
Enjoy your delicious Canadian Caesar Cocktail!
Blueberry Grunt (Steamed Pudding with Berries)
This classic dessert combines the sweetness of blueberries with a moist, comforting pudding cake. Perfect for a cozy evening treat or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 cup fresh blueberries
– 1 tablespoon heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat steam basket or a steamer insert to high heat.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
4. Gradually add dry ingredients to wet ingredients; stir until smooth.
5. Pour mixture into a 1-quart baking dish or a heatproof cup.
6. Arrange blueberries on top of pudding mixture.
7. Steam for 40-45 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
8. Serve warm, topped with heavy cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Peameal Bacon on a Bun with Mustard
Savor the sweet and smoky flavors of peameal bacon, crispy buns, and tangy mustard in this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 slices peameal bacon
– 4 soft buns (hoagie or sandwich)
– 2 tbsp yellow mustard
– 1 tsp honey
– Lettuce leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Cook the peameal bacon for 3-4 minutes per side, or until crispy and golden brown.
3. Meanwhile, toast the buns on the grill or in a toaster.
4. Assemble the sandwich by spreading yellow mustard on each bun half.
5. Top with a slice of cooked peameal bacon, a drizzle of honey (optional), and some lettuce leaves if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Quebec-Style Yellow Pea Soup
Experience the warm comfort of Quebec’s countryside with this hearty and flavorful yellow pea soup recipe, a staple of Canadian cuisine. This classic dish is perfect for a chilly evening or as a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried yellow peas
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the dried yellow peas and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the soaked peas, then add them to a large pot with chicken broth, butter, onion, garlic, mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the peas are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree it to your desired consistency.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Lobster Poutine with Creamy Béchamel
Elevate your comfort food game with this decadent poutine recipe, featuring succulent lobster meat and a rich creamy béchamel sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb lobster meat (claw and body)
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cups all-purpose potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup cream
– 2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook potatoes in boiling water until tender, about 10-12 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add lobster meat and cook for 2-3 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Arrange cooked potatoes in a baking dish. Top with the lobster mixture and dot with butter.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Wild Rice and Mushroom Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with earthy mushrooms, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 8 minutes.
5. Stir in thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked wild rice, mushroom mixture, and cheddar cheese. Mix well.
7. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Maple Butter Tarts with Pecans
Maple Butter Tarts with Pecans: A Sweet and Nutty Treat
These buttery tarts are infused with the richness of maple syrup, the crunch of pecans, and the warmth of cinnamon. Perfect for a cozy afternoon or as a special treat any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a small bowl, mix together maple syrup, butter, sugar, and cinnamon until smooth.
4. Arrange pecans on the bottom of the tart shell, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Pour the maple mixture over the pecans.
6. Roll out the remaining pie crust to fit the top of the tart. Crimp edges to seal.
7. Cut a small slit in the center of the tart for steam to escape.
8. Brush with beaten egg and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until golden brown.
Canadian Apple Pie with Cheddar Crust
This beloved Canadian dessert gets a savory boost from a cheddar-infused crust, perfectly balancing sweet and sharp flavors. This recipe is sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
For the filling:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp nutmeg
For the crust:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine apple slices, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. Roll out the crust mixture to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
4. Place the apple filling in the center of the crust, leaving a 1-inch border.
5. Fold the crust over the apples, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush with ice-cold water and bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Ketchup Chips-Coated Chicken Tenders
Elevate your snack game with these crispy and flavorful chicken tenders coated in a sweet and tangy ketchup chips mixture!
Ingredients:
• 4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breast strips
• 1 cup Kettle Brand Ketchup Chips, crushed
• 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a shallow dish, mix together panko breadcrumbs and salt.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the breadcrumb mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place the coated chicken strips on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with black pepper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. While the chicken is baking, mix crushed ketchup chips with a pinch of salt in a separate bowl.
7. Remove the chicken from the oven and toss each strip into the ketchup chip mixture to coat evenly.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Pouding Chômeur (Poor Man’s Pudding)
This classic Québécois dessert is a humble yet indulgent treat that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence. With its rich, sweet, and creamy flavors, Pouding Chômeur is sure to satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/4 cup raisins
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine brown sugar, heavy cream, and salt. Stir until dissolved.
3. Add vanilla extract, raisins, and chopped walnuts (if using). Mix well.
4. Gradually add flour, stirring until smooth.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these 20 comforting Canadian recipes that are sure to warm your heart and belly. From classic poutine with homemade gravy and cheese curds, to butter tarts with flaky pastry, and Nanaimo bars with coconut and custard, there’s something for every taste bud. Other highlights include tourtière (French-Canadian meat pie), maple-glazed salmon, Canadian bacon and cheddar perogies, beavertails with cinnamon sugar, and split pea soup with ham hock. And don’t forget the indulgent treats like lobster poutine, wild rice and mushroom casserole, and Canadian apple pie with cheddar crust. These authentic recipes are sure to become new favorites in your kitchen.