As the snowflakes gently fall outside, there’s nothing quite like gathering around the dinner table with loved ones to warm up and indulge in a hearty, comforting meal. And what better way to do so than with a taste of Canada’s rich culinary heritage? From coast to coast, our great nation is home to a diverse array of delicious dishes that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates.
In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouth-watering Canadian recipes that are perfect for cozy nights in. Whether you’re a fan of classic comfort foods like poutine and butter tarts, or more adventurous dishes like caribou stew and lobster poutine, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab a cup of hot cocoa, get cozy by the fire, and let’s dive into the world of Canadian cuisine!
Poutine with Homemade Gravy and Cheese Curds
Get ready to taste a quintessential Canadian dish! This recipe combines crispy fries, gooey cheese curds, and rich homemade gravy for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds Russet potatoes, peeled and cut into long strips
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cheese curds (fresh or frozen)
– Optional: chopped fresh chives or parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat vegetable oil in a deep frying pan to 350°F.
2. Fry potato strips in batches until golden, about 3-4 minutes. Drain on paper towels.
3. In a saucepan, whisk together half-and-half, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low and let gravy thicken, stirring occasionally (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Assemble poutine by placing fries in a bowl, topping with cheese curds, and drizzling with homemade gravy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Butter Tarts with Flaky Pastry
These classic Canadian treats are a staple of any baking repertoire. With a buttery, flaky crust and a gooey filling, they’re sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup light corn syrup
– 1/4 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 cold butter. Use a pastry blender or fingers to work the butter into the flour until it resembles coarse crumbs.
3. Gradually add ice-cold water, stirring with a fork until dough comes together in a ball.
4. Roll out dough on a lightly floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
5. Cut into squares and spoon a small amount of sugar mixture onto one half of each square. Fold the other half over to form a triangle, pressing edges to seal.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple-Glazed Salmon with Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your dinner game with this sweet and savory recipe that combines the richness of maple-glazed salmon with a medley of roasted vegetables. This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Assorted vegetables (such as Brussels sprouts, carrots, sweet potatoes, and red onions)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine maple syrup, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and Dijon mustard. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the glaze evenly over the fish.
4. Roast vegetables of your choice on a separate baking sheet with 1-2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper until tender (about 20-25 minutes).
5. Bake salmon for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve salmon with roasted vegetables and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tourtière (French-Canadian Meat Pie)
A classic French-Canadian dish, Tourtière is a hearty meat pie filled with ground pork, beef, and vegetables. Perfect for a cold winter’s night or as a special occasion meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1/2 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 2 cups puff pastry, thawed
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground pork and beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, peas and carrots, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in the flour and melted butter to combine.
5. Roll out one sheet of puff pastry on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness.
6. Spoon the meat mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
7. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling and press the edges to seal.
8. Brush the top with a little water and bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Nanaimo Bars with Chocolate and Coconut
Nanaimo bars are a beloved Canadian dessert that combines the richness of chocolate, the crunch of toasted coconut, and the simplicity of graham cracker crust. This classic recipe gets an extra boost from added chocolate and toasted coconut for an irresistible treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 cups confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsweetened shredded coconut, toasted
– 1/2 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix graham cracker crumbs and sugar. Stir in melted butter until combined.
3. Press crust mixture into prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 10 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. Allow crust to cool completely. Top with confectioners’ sugar, toasted coconut, and chocolate chips.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Canadian Bacon and Cheddar Quiche
A classic quiche recipe with a twist, this dish combines the savory flavors of Canadian bacon and cheddar cheese for a delicious breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 6 slices Canadian bacon, diced
– 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a skillet, cook Canadian bacon until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
4. In a bowl, whisk together heavy cream, egg, salt, and pepper.
5. Sprinkle cooked Canadian bacon and shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the pie crust.
6. Pour the cream mixture over the filling.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is golden brown and set.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
BeaverTails (Fried Dough Pastry with Toppings)
Satisfy your cravings with this classic Canadian treat! BeaverTails are crispy, golden fried dough pastries topped with sweet and savory delights.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Toppings of your choice (e.g., cinnamon sugar, chocolate chips, caramel sauce, nuts)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, and warm water to form a dough.
2. Knead the dough on a floured surface until smooth and elastic.
3. Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. Roll out the dough to desired thickness (about 1/8 inch).
5. Fry the dough for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
7. Top with your preferred toppings and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes total (including frying time).
Split Pea Soup with Ham Hock
This classic split pea soup recipe is a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for a chilly day. The addition of a ham hock adds a rich, smoky flavor to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried split peas
– 2 pounds smoked ham hock
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the split peas and pick out any debris.
2. Place the ham hock in a large pot or Dutch oven with the chopped onion and minced garlic.
3. Add the chicken broth, split peas, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
5. Remove the ham hock and let it cool. Once cooled, chop the meat into bite-sized pieces and return it to the pot.
6. Continue to simmer for another 30 minutes, or until the peas are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Montreal-Style Smoked Meat Sandwich
Experience the iconic flavors of Montreal with this classic smoked meat sandwich recipe, featuring tender and savory cured beef, crispy rye bread, and a hint of mustard.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Montreal-style smoked meat (or similar cured beef)
– 4 slices of rye bread
– 2 tablespoons of yellow mustard
– 2 tablespoons of pickle slices
– Lettuce leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Slice the smoked meat thinly against the grain.
2. Lay a slice of rye bread on a flat surface.
3. Place 2-3 slices of the smoked meat on the bread.
4. Spread 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard on top of the meat.
5. Add a few pickle slices and some lettuce leaves (if using).
6. Top with another slice of rye bread to complete the sandwich.
7. Repeat for each sandwich.
Cooking Time: None required, as this is an assembly-only recipe!
Enjoy your delicious Montreal-Style Smoked Meat Sandwich!
Blueberry Grunt (Steamed Pudding with Berries)
This traditional dessert, also known as steamed pudding with berries, is a comforting treat that’s easy to make and sure to please. The combination of warm, fluffy pudding topped with sweet and tangy blueberries is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs
– 2 cups fresh or frozen blueberries
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat your steamer basket over boiling water.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, heavy cream, and eggs.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and stir until smooth.
5. Pour the mixture into a heatproof cup or ramekin.
6. Place the cup in the steamer basket and steam for 25-30 minutes, or until the pudding is cooked through.
7. Remove from heat and top with blueberries and melted butter.
8. Serve warm, garnished with additional blueberries if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Bannock (Traditional Indigenous Fry Bread)
A traditional fry bread recipe that’s a staple in many Indigenous communities, bannock is a delicious and easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for snacking or serving as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 1 cup warm water
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add in the warm water, stirring with a fork until the dough forms.
3. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for 5-7 minutes, or until smooth and elastic.
4. Divide the dough into 2-3 equal portions, depending on how large you want your bannocks to be.
5. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
6. Roll out each portion of dough into a ball, then flatten it slightly into a disk shape.
7. Place the disks into the hot oil and fry for 1-2 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes per bannock
Caesar Cocktail with Clamato Juice
Experience the bold flavors of a traditional Caesar cocktail infused with the tangy essence of Clamato juice. This refreshing twist on a classic is perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 2 oz gin
– 1 oz vodka
– 4 oz Clamato juice
– 1/2 oz freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 dash Worcestershire sauce
– 1 dash hot sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Lime wedge, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add gin, vodka, Clamato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce (if using).
3. Shake vigorously for 15-20 seconds.
4. Strain into a chilled glass filled with ice.
5. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with a lime wedge.
Cooking Time: None
Peameal Bacon on a Bun
Experience the perfect combination of crispy bacon, sweet onions, and melted cheddar cheese on a toasted bun. This classic Canadian treat is easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices peameal bacon
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 hamburger buns
– 2 slices cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Cook the peameal bacon for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until crispy.
3. Meanwhile, toast the hamburger buns by placing them on the skillet or griddle for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
4. In the same skillet or griddle, cook the sliced onions in butter until caramelized and golden brown (about 10-12 minutes).
5. Assemble the sandwiches by placing a slice of peameal bacon, some caramelized onions, and a slice of cheddar cheese on each toasted bun.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Canadian Butter Tart Squares
These rich and buttery squares are a twist on the classic Canadian butter tart. Perfect for a sweet treat or dessert, they’re easy to make and sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– 1 tablespoon milk
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking pan with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and salt. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
3. Press half of the dough into the prepared pan.
4. In a small bowl, mix together granulated sugar, brown sugar, and chopped pecans (if using). Sprinkle evenly over the dough.
5. Roll out remaining dough to fit the top of the pan. Place on top of the filling and press edges to seal.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Wild Rice and Mushroom Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the earthy taste of sautéed mushrooms, perfect for a comforting meal. With its satisfying texture and bold flavors, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), 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 (190°C).
2. Cook wild rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and mushrooms; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Combine cooked wild rice, mushroom mixture, thyme, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with grated cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Maple Baked Beans with Molasses
Elevate your baked bean game with the rich flavors of maple syrup and molasses! These sweet and smoky beans are perfect for a crowd or as a comforting side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons molasses
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or bean pot, combine beans, onion, garlic, ketchup, maple syrup, molasses, mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover the pot with a lid and bake for 6-8 hours, or until the beans are tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
4. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Lobster Poutine with Creamy Sauce
Elevate your poutine game with this luxurious twist featuring succulent lobster and a rich, creamy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup lobster meat (fresh or frozen)
– 2 cups cheese curds
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to low and let cool slightly.
4. Arrange cheese curds in a single layer on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes or until melted and golden.
5. Meanwhile, warm lobster meat by microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. To assemble the poutine, place cooked curds in a serving dish, followed by warmed lobster meat.
7. Pour cooled creamy sauce over the top and garnish with chopped chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Caribou Stew with Root Vegetables
Warm up on a chilly day with this hearty Caribou Stew, featuring tender chunks of caribou and a medley of roasted root vegetables. This comforting stew is perfect for a cozy night in or as a special occasion meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless caribou shoulder or beef chuck, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 large red potato, peeled and chopped
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or pot, brown the caribou in batches over medium-high heat.
3. Add chopped onion, garlic, carrots, parsnips, and potato to the pot. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add beef broth and thyme; bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and let stew cook for 2 hours or until caribou is tender.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Canadian Apple Pie with Cheddar Crust
A classic Canadian twist on traditional apple pie, this recipe combines the sweetness of apples with the savory flavor of cheddar cheese to create a unique and delicious dessert.
Ingredients:
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Roll out the cheddar crust dough to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Place the apple mixture in the center of the dough, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
4. Fold the edges of the dough up over the apples, pressing gently to seal.
5. Brush the egg wash over the crust and sprinkle with additional cheddar cheese if desired.
6. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Ketchup Chips-Crusted Chicken Tenders
Get ready for a flavor explosion with these addictive chicken tenders coated in crunchy ketchup chips! This easy recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
– 1 cup Ketchup Chips (any flavor)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together Ketchup Chips and panko breadcrumbs.
3. Dip each chicken strip into the chip mixture, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Place coated tenders on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until cooked through and crispy.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these hearty Canadian recipes perfect for cold winter nights. From comforting classics like poutine with homemade gravy and cheese curds, to indulgent treats like butter tarts and Nanaimo bars, there’s something for everyone. Try your hand at making a traditional French-Canadian meat pie or a decadent maple-glazed salmon dish. Or, satisfy your sweet tooth with a batch of blueberry grunt or Canadian apple pie. These recipes will warm your belly and your home, just like a cozy night in Canada.
