John Myers
Introduction: Canadian Cuisine
Canadian cuisine is a rich tapestry of traditional dishes and international influences that have been adapted to local ingredients and cooking techniques. While many people associate Canadian food with maple syrup and poutine, there is much more to explore in terms of side dishes that can accompany any meal. From French Canadian classics to Indigenous-inspired recipes, there are endless options to discover and savour.
Traditional Canadian Side Dishes
When it comes to traditional Canadian side dishes, there are a few staples that are popular across the country. These include baked beans, coleslaw, and potato salad. Baked beans are a slow-cooked mixture of navy beans, molasses, brown sugar, and spices that are often served with ham, sausages, or barbecue fare. Coleslaw is a refreshing salad made with shredded cabbage, carrots, and a creamy dressing that can be savoury or sweet. Potato salad is a hearty dish made with boiled potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, mayonnaise, and mustard, often seasoned with herbs and spices.
French Canadian Favourites
French Canadian cuisine is renowned for its hearty and flavourful dishes, and the side dishes are no exception. Tourtiere is a meat pie made with ground pork, beef, or veal, onions, and spices, served with a side of cranberry sauce. Poutine is a Quebecois dish made with French fries, cheese curds, and gravy that is popular across Canada. Pea soup is a thick and savoury soup made with split peas, ham hocks, and vegetables, often served with a slice of buttered bread.
Indigenous-Inspired Dishes
Indigenous cuisine is one of the oldest and most diverse culinary traditions in Canada, and many of the side dishes are based on local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Bannock is a type of bread that is often served as a side dish with stews, soups, or roasted meats. Three sisters salad is a salad made with corn, beans, and squash, which are three crops that are traditionally grown together. Wild rice is a nutty and flavourful grain that can be used in salads, stuffing, or pilafs.
Regional Specialties
Canada is a vast and diverse country, and each region has its own unique dishes and flavours. In Atlantic Canada, seafood is a staple, and side dishes often include boiled new potatoes, corn on the cob, and coleslaw. In the Prairies, perogies are a popular side dish made with boiled or fried dough filled with cheese, potatoes, or meat. In British Columbia, yam fries are a popular alternative to regular French fries, often served with a garlic aioli dipping sauce.
Fusion Flavours to Try
Canada is a melting pot of cultures, and many chefs and home cooks have embraced the fusion of different cuisines and flavours. Kimchi poutine is a twist on the classic Quebecois dish, adding a spicy and tangy kick to the cheese and gravy. Butter chicken poutine is another fusion dish that combines the Indian flavours of butter chicken with the Canadian favourite of poutine. Tacos made with bannock dough instead of tortillas are a creative way to incorporate Indigenous ingredients into a Mexican-inspired dish.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
For those who follow a vegetarian or vegan diet, there are many Canadian side dishes that are meat-free and plant-based. Lentil soup is a hearty and flavourful soup made with lentils, vegetables, and spices. Grilled vegetables such as zucchini, eggplant, and peppers are a healthy and colourful side dish that can be seasoned with herbs and a drizzle of olive oil. Quinoa salad is a light and refreshing salad made with quinoa, fresh herbs, and a citrusy dressing.
Pairing Wine and Beer with Sides
Pairing wine and beer with side dishes can enhance the flavours and create a more enjoyable dining experience. Light and crisp white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pair well with seafood and salads. Full-bodied red wines such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot pair well with meat dishes and rich stews. Blonde or amber beers pair well with spicy or fried foods, while darker beers such as stouts or porters pair well with roasted meats and hearty dishes.
Cooking Tips and Techniques
When preparing Canadian side dishes, there are a few tips and techniques to keep in mind. For baked beans, soaking the beans overnight before cooking can help them cook more evenly and reduce the cooking time. For coleslaw, shredding the cabbage and carrots by hand rather than using a food processor can give the salad a better texture. For potato salad, boiling the potatoes with the skins on can help them retain their shape and flavour.
Conclusion: Culinary Souvenirs
Exploring Canadian side dishes is a culinary journey that can lead to new flavours, ingredients, and cooking techniques. Whether you’re looking for traditional dishes or fusion flavours, there is something for everyone to try. So the next time you’re planning a meal or trying a new restaurant, consider exploring the rich and diverse world of Canadian side dishes. Who knows, you may even discover a new favourite that will become a culinary souvenir of your journey.
