Tracey PictorCanada is famously synonymous with hockey, cold weather and of course maple syrup.
But while the locals are exceptionally proud of their maple syrup – it can be found drizzled, smeared and baked onto almost anything – there are other Canadian foods (and drinks) you have to try.
1. Poutine
If you have never stepped foot into Canada you may have never heard of poutine. This gift to the comfort food world originated in Quebec and consists of French fries with cheese curds, slathered in gravy.
And then if poutine in its purist form wasn’t enough calories for you, you can add additional toppings like pulled pork, bacon, caramelised onions and nachos to name a few.
2. Caesar
via Edson Hong
Not the salad, but rather the cocktail originating from Calgary. It’s similar to a Bloody Mary but with the addition of Clamato (Clam broth) which adds a whole new level of complexity and body to it.
A Caesar’s defining feature is the garnish. Celery stalks and pickles are pretty standard but many bartenders have take it to the next level. Sometimes they almost pile an entire meal onto the rim, anything from lobster tails and salmon wedges to maple bacon and smoked oysters.
3. Beaver Tails
Think warm, flat donut pastry liberally covered with a topping of your choice – ranging from the classic cinnamon and sugar, cookie crumbs and icing to Nutella and Reese’s pieces. A chocoholic’s best friend and a dietitian’s worst nightmare.
4. Bagel
via Heidi De Vries
Not just any bagel – an authentic Montreal bagel. In contrast to the New York-style bagel, Montreal bagels have a homemade warmth to them.
They are smaller, thinner, sweeter and denser, baked in a wood-fired oven and commonly topped with sesame or poppy seeds. Many say nothing beats a Montreal bagel, not even New York’s – we’ll let you judge for yourself.
5. Tim Hortons Coffee
via Michael Gil
Timmy’s is an inexpensive, reliable diner and your average Canadian’s go-to coffee house. They can be spotted on every corner and highway stop. Tim Hortons is essentially Canada’s (less expensive) version of Starbucks.
Editor’s tip: Don’t forget to try a Tim Hortons donut while you’re there – they’re pretty divine!
6. Maple Taffy
What would any visit to Canada be without a dose of maple syrup? When the temperatures plummet and the country is blanketed in snow, sugar shacks are set up.
That is where maple syrup is poured over fresh snow and twirled onto a stick to create a maple popsicle. They are surprisingly – or perhaps unsurprisingly – delicious.
Have you tried any of these classic Canadian foods? Which is your favourite? Let us know in the comments below.
