Embarking on a journey to a new country is exciting, an adventure filled with anticipation and discovery. Among the many aspects of life awaiting you, the culinary landscape stands out as being especially thrilling.
As you prepare to move to Canada, a country known for its diverse culture and rich culinary heritage, you might find yourself wondering what awaits you on the dining front. From traditional dishes to modern favourites, dining etiquette to grocery shopping, we have taken a look at the world of Canadian cuisine.
An Introduction to Canadian Cuisine
There’s a lot that goes into organising removals to Canada, but the delicious food that you’ll have access to when you arrive is a huge payoff. Canadian cuisine is as diverse as its landscape, drawing influences from indigenous traditions, immigrant communities and regional specialties.
When you move to Canada, you can expect to encounter classic dishes like poutine – a beloved concoction of fries, cheese curds, and gravy – as well as butter tarts – a sweet treat with a gooey centre – and much, much more. Of course, there’s also the iconic Canadian maple syrup, harvested from the abundant maple trees that dot the countryside. From hearty comfort foods to fresh seafood delicacies, there’s something for every palate in Canada.
Popular Canadian Dishes
Poutine
Originating from Quebec, poutine is a beloved Canadian dish consisting of crispy chips topped with cheese curds and covered in gravy. It’s a comforting and indulgent treat that can be found across the country, with variations that include additional toppings such as pulled pork or bacon. There are a number of theories for where the word ‘poutine’ comes from, but many agree that it stems from the French word for pudding, and is slang for ‘mess’ in Quebec.
Nanaimo Bars
Named after the city of Nanaimo in British Columbia, Nanaimo bars are a layered dessert consisting of a crumbly chocolate base, a creamy custard filling and a smooth chocolate ganache topping. These ‘no bake’ bars are a favourite at potlucks and festive gatherings across Canada.
Montreal Bagels
Montreal-style bagels are distinct from their New York counterparts, with a smaller size, denser texture and larger hole. They’re boiled in sweetened water before being baked in a wood fired oven, resulting in a chewy interior and slightly sweet flavour. These bagels are often enjoyed toasted with cream cheese or smoked salmon.
Beaver Tails
Beaver Tails are a Canadian pastry resembling the shape of a beaver’s tail, hence the name. Made from stretched dough that is deep fried until golden brown, Beaver Tails are then topped with sweet ingredients like cinnamon sugar, chocolate hazelnut spread or maple butter. They’re a popular Canadian treat, especially at winter festivals and ski resorts.
Tourtière
Tourtière is a traditional French-Canadian meat pie that is typically served during the festive season. The filling is made with ground meat – such as pork, beef or game – seasoned with spices like cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg. The pie crust is flaky and golden, making it a comforting and hearty dish for cold winter nights.
Butter Tarts
Butter tarts are a quintessentially Canadian dessert made with a filling consisting of butter, sugar and eggs, all baked in a flaky pastry shell. The filling can sometimes include additions like raisins, pecans or walnuts, adding texture and flavour to this delicious treat.
Atlantic Lobster
Canada is home to some of the world’s best lobster, particularly in the Atlantic provinces such as Nova Scotia and New Brunswick. Atlantic lobster is known for its sweet and succulent meat, which is often boiled or steamed and served with melted butter. It’s a luxurious seafood delicacy enjoyed by locals and visitors alike. Of course, it’s not just Atlantic lobster that ticks the ‘seafood’ box in Canada. There’s also a rich history of seafood chowder in Nova Scotia, a dish that can now be found around the country.
What to Expect from Canadian Cuisine
Fast Food and Casual Dining
Similarly to the type of food that you can expect in the USA, fast food and casual dining can be found in Canada. In fact, fast food is a key part of the culinary scene. You’ll find international chains, such as Tim Hortons and McDonald’s alongside homegrown favourites, such Harvey’s and Swiss Chalet. These establishments offer convenient and affordable options for grabbing a quick bite on the go, and they can be found throughout the country.
When it comes to casual dining experiences, you’re sure to enjoy exploring the diverse range of eateries offering everything from Canadian comfort food to global cuisine. Though a lot of the fast food and casual dining options are similar to those found elsewhere, there are some elements that stand out as being specific to Canada. For example, depending on where you are, there’s likely to be local specialties available. This includes Montreal-style bagels, smoked meat sandwiches and seafood chowder.
Bakery and Desserts
Canada boasts a rich tradition of bakery and dessert offerings that cater to a wide range of tastes. From classic pastries like butter tarts and Nanaimo bars, to French-inspired treats like croissants and macarons, there’s something to satisfy every sweet tooth. Whether you’re exploring local bakeries or enjoying desserts at restaurants and cafes, Canada’s bakery scene promises delightful discoveries at every turn.
Dairy and Cheese
With its lush farmland and dairy producing regions, Canada is renowned for its high quality dairy products and artisanal cheeses. From creamy Canadian cheddar to tangy Quebecois cheese curds, there’s a diverse array of cheese options to explore. If you are a cheese lover, sample local specialties like Oka – a semi soft cheese with a distinct flavour – and St. Albert’s cheese curds, which are perfect for making traditional poutine. Canadian ice cream is also popular, as it’s made with fresh dairy and often features unique flavours inspired by local ingredients.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Canada’s culinary landscape is increasingly embracing vegetarian and vegan options, catering to the growing demand for plant based dining experiences. From trendy vegan cafes to ‘farm to table’ restaurants, you will find a wealth of meat free dishes that celebrate the abundance of seasonal produce and local ingredients. You’ll even be able to find classic Canadian dishes that cater to vegan and veterinary diets, such as vegan poutine made with mushroom gravy and dairy free cheese curds.
Coffee Culture
Canada’s coffee culture is thriving, with an abundance of cafes and roasteries serving up expertly crafted brews to satisfy every coffee connoisseur. From bustling urban hubs to quaint small town cafes, you’ll find a diverse array of coffee shops wherever you go in Canada. To put it simply, Canadians really enjoy coffee. You’ll find coffee shops offering everything from single origin pour overs to velvety lattes, and even indulgent espresso drinks. This is a country that boasts friendly baristas and cosy atmospheres, creating the perfect backdrop for enjoying a warm drink.
Alcoholic Beverages
Canada’s rich brewing and distilling heritage is reflected in its diverse array of alcoholic beverages. From craft beers and ciders, to award winning wines and spirits, Canada has it all.
When you move to Canada, you can explore the local craft beer scene, with microbreweries and brewpubs offering a wide range of innovative and flavourful brews that showcase the best of local ingredients and brewing techniques.
Wine enthusiasts can indulge in tastings at vineyards and wineries across the country, sampling varieties ranging from crisp whites to full bodied reds. For those seeking something stronger, Canada’s burgeoning craft distillery scene offers an array of artisanal spirits, including vodka, gin and whiskey, with a whole host of unique flavours to choose from.
Eating Out and Tipping Etiquette
When you are eating out in Canada, tipping is customary and expected, and tipping between 15 and 20% of the total bill is considered to be standard for good service. It’s important to remember that taxes are not usually included in menu prices, so be prepared for the final bill to be slightly higher than expected. In terms of etiquette, it’s customary to wait to be seated at restaurants, and reservations are often recommended, especially at popular establishments.
Supermarkets and Grocery Shopping
Navigating Canadian supermarkets can be an adventure in itself, with a wide array of products and brands to choose from. There are a number of national chains like Loblaws, Sobeys and Metro, as well as regional favourites such as Save-On-Foods in Western Canada and Atlantic Superstore in the Maritimes.
Fresh produce, dairy products and locally sourced goods are readily available in Canadian supermarkets, and many supermarkets offer online ordering and home delivery services for added convenience.
Food Festivals and Culinary Events
Canada’s rich culinary landscape is celebrated throughout the year with a diverse array of food festivals and culinary events. From coast to coast, these gatherings showcase the country’s vibrant food culture, diverse culinary traditions and innovative chefs.
Taste of Toronto
Held annually in the heart of Toronto, Taste of Toronto is a culinary event that brings together the city’s top chefs, restaurants and food artisans. Visitors can sample a wide range of gourmet dishes, attend cooking demonstrations and masterclasses, and enjoy live entertainment in a vibrant festival atmosphere. From fine dining to street food, Taste of Toronto offers a taste of the city’s diverse culinary scene all in one place.
Vancouver Food and Wine Festival
Known for its stunning scenery and vibrant dining scene, Vancouver hosts an annual fFood and wine festival that celebrates the best of West Coast cuisine. The festival features tastings, seminars and special events showcasing local chefs, wineries, breweries and distilleries. You can explore the city’s culinary diversity while enjoying breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and surrounding mountains.
Halifax Oyster Festival
For seafood lovers, the Halifax Oyster Festival is a ‘must do’ event celebrating the region’s renowned oysters and maritime cuisine. Held in the historic port city of Halifax, this festival features oyster shucking competitions, tasting sessions and culinary demonstrations by leading chefs.
Montréal en Lumière
Montreal’s annual winter festival is a celebration of gastronomy, culture and entertainment. The festival features a gourmet section showcasing the city’s diverse culinary scene, with top restaurants offering special menus and themed events. You can indulge in culinary tours, wine tastings and food themed workshops, as well as outdoor activities and live performances throughout the city.
Where to Find Your Favourite British Foods in Canada
As an expat in Canada, one of the greatest joys is discovering places where you can indulge in the comforting flavours of home. Fortunately, Canada boasts a diverse range of speciality shops. These shops stock a wide range of British groceries, including pantry staples like tea, biscuits, and canned goods, as well as iconic British brands and delicacies that can be hard to find elsewhere. Whether you’re in search of Heinz baked beans, Branston pickle or Cadbury’s chocolate, these shops have you covered.
British pubs and restaurants are also relatively easy to find in Canada, and they offer a taste of home. From traditional pub grub, including bangers and mash and shepherd’s pie, to hearty Sunday roasts and savoury pies, these establishments serve up classic dishes that are sure to satisfy your expat cravings.
Explore Food and Cuisine in Canada When You Make Your Big Move
When you relocate to Canada, you can look forward to exploring the diverse culinary offerings, ranging from local delicacies and specialities to global favourites. Whether dining at renowned restaurants or sampling fast food from a chain restaurant, there is no shortage of exciting culinary adventures awaiting you in Canada.
But, before you can enjoy everything that Canadian cuisine has to offer, you need to organise your big move. This is where United International Removals comes in. With our expert team and our in-depth understanding of the international removal process, you can look forward to a simple and straightforward experience. Get in touch to find out more.