As the days grow shorter and the nights grow cooler, there’s nothing quite like a warm, comforting bowl of goodness to cozy up with. And what better way to do so than with a taste of French Canada? From classic tourtière to decadent pouding chômeur, our beloved neighbors to the north have perfected the art of hearty, homestyle cooking that warms the soul.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the regions and traditions of French Canada, highlighting 19 must-try recipes that are sure to become new favorites. From comforting main courses like pea soup and beef stew, to sweet treats like maple butter tarts and blueberry galette, we’ve got you covered for all your cozy night needs.
So grab a cup of coffee, settle in, and get ready to be transported to the charming world of French Canadian cuisine.
Classic Tourtière with Spiced Ground Pork
This traditional French-Canadian dish is a staple of Christmas celebrations, and our recipe adds a warm and aromatic twist with the addition of ground pork. The result is a hearty, comforting pie that’s perfect for a cold winter’s night.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tbsp butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine ground pork, chopped onion, minced garlic, thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Add flour, melted butter, and beaten egg to the mixture. Mix until just combined.
4. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with pork mixture and smooth top.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until crust is golden brown and filling is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Poutine with Homemade Gravy and Cheese Curds
Get ready to elevate your comfort food game with this mouthwatering poutine recipe featuring homemade gravy and squeaky cheese curds. This Canadian classic is a staple for a reason – the combination of crispy fries, rich gravy, and melted cheese is unbeatable.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cut into fry shapes
– Vegetable oil for frying
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups beef broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese (or a combination of cheddar and mozzarella)
– 1 cup cheese curds
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 350°F. Fry potatoes in batches until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Drain excess oil.
2. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute. Gradually add beef broth, whisking continuously. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
3. Assemble poutine by placing fries on a plate, topping with cheese curds, and drizzling with homemade gravy. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple-Glazed Salmon with Dill Butter
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this flavorful Maple-Glazed Salmon recipe, paired with a bright and tangy Dill Butter. Perfect for a quick yet impressive meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, garlic, and lemon zest.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the glaze evenly over each fillet.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix softened butter with chopped dill. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve glazed salmon with dollops of Dill Butter on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Traditional Pea Soup with Smoked Ham Hock
Classic pea soup gets a rich and savory twist with the addition of smoked ham hocks, making this comforting bowl perfect for chilly days. This recipe yields a creamy, flavorful broth packed with tender peas and infused with the deep smokiness of the ham.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried split peas
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 2 smoked ham hocks
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the broth, peas, ham hocks, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
4. Remove the ham hocks and let cool. Once cooled enough to handle, remove the meat from the bones and return it to the pot.
5. Simmer an additional 30 minutes or until peas are tender. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2 hours
Quebec-Style Split Pea Soup
This classic Québécois soup is a staple of Canadian cuisine, made with simple ingredients and a rich flavor profile. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried split peas
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 ham hock (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the split peas and soak them in water for at least 8 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the peas again.
3. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add the split peas, chicken broth, water, and ham hock (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-50 minutes or until the peas are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Creton (French Canadian Pork Spread)
This classic Creton recipe is a staple of French-Canadian cuisine, made with slow-cooked pork shoulder, onions, and spices. Serve it on crackers or toast for a satisfying snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon mustard seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, combine pork, onion, garlic, brown sugar, mustard seeds, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven.
4. Cook for 2-3 hours, or until the pork is tender and falls apart easily.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
6. Use a fork to shred the pork into bite-sized pieces.
7. Serve warm on crackers or toast.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Baked Beans with Maple Syrup and Bacon
This recipe takes classic baked beans to the next level by adding a hint of sweetness from maple syrup and a smoky depth from crispy bacon. The result is a deliciously complex flavor profile that’s perfect for accompanying grilled meats, vegetables, or as a standalone 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 brown sugar
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
– 1 teaspoon ground mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 250°F (120°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine soaked navy beans, chopped onion, minced garlic, ketchup, maple syrup, brown sugar, crumbled bacon, and ground mustard.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the bean mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 6-8 hours or until beans are tender.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours, plus 30 minutes uncovered
Montreal-Style Bagels with Sesame Seeds
Experience the iconic taste of Montreal’s Jewish delis with this simple recipe for traditional bagels, topped with a generous sprinkle of sesame seeds. Perfect for breakfast or as a snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 tablespoons sugar
– 4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Sesame seeds, for topping (about 1/4 cup)
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, yeast, and sugar. Let it sit for 5-7 minutes until frothy.
2. Add flour, salt, and oil to the mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough for 10 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until doubled in size.
5. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.
6. Divide the dough into 8-10 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a ball and then stretch into a bagel shape, making sure the hole is not too large.
7. Place the shaped bagels onto the prepared baking sheets, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
8. Brush the tops with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with 1 tablespoon water) and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
9. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Pouding Chômeur (Poor Man’s Pudding)
This classic Québécois dessert is a comforting treat that’s easy to make and requires minimal ingredients. Perfect for a cold winter’s night, this pudding is sure to warm your heart and belly!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon butter, melted
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1/2 cup raisins
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, beaten eggs, and raisins; whisk until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the top.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until pudding is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Grand-Pères in Maple Syrup (Dumplings)
These tender dumplings are smothered in a rich maple syrup sauce, perfect for a cozy breakfast or brunch. This classic Quebecois recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg, beaten
– Maple syrup, for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, cornstarch, sugar, salt, and baking powder.
2. Gradually add milk and beaten egg to the dry ingredients. Mix until a smooth batter forms.
3. Heat about 2 inches of water in a large saucepan over medium heat. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and cook dumplings for 10-12 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
5. Remove from water with a slotted spoon and serve hot with maple syrup drizzled on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tarte au Sucre (Sugar Pie)
This rich and creamy sugar pie is a staple of French patisserie, perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create this decadent dessert that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg yolk
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together sugar, flour, and salt.
3. Add melted butter, egg yolk, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a 9-inch pie dish lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the filling is set and the edges are golden brown.
6. Allow the pie to cool before serving.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Ragoût de Boulettes (Meatball Stew)
A hearty and flavorful stew originating from France, Ragoût de Boulettes is a comforting dish perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines tender meatballs with aromatic vegetables and rich beef broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 celery stalk, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups beef broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, carrot, and celery in a bowl.
3. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
4. In a large pot, combine diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
5. Add the cooked meatballs to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: approximately 45-50 minutes
Tourtière du Lac-Saint-Jean (Layered Meat Pie)
This classic Quebecois dish is a hearty and flavorful meat pie that’s perfect for cold winter nights. Layers of ground beef, pork, and vegetables are wrapped in flaky pastry, creating a rich and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1/2 pound ground pork
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, peas)
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef and pork over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, mixed vegetables, salt, pepper, and nutmeg to the skillet. Cook until the mixture is heated through.
4. Roll out the pie crust to fit a 9×13-inch baking dish. Place half of the meat mixture in the bottom of the crust, followed by a layer of pastry. Repeat the layers, finishing with a top layer of pastry.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the crust is golden brown and the filling is hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beef and Beer Stew with Root Vegetables
This comforting stew is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion. A rich beef broth, flavorful beer, and tender root vegetables come together to create a satisfying and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and sliced
– 1 cup beer (dark or amber)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven, brown the beef cubes over medium-high heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, carrots, potatoes, parsnip, beer, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Cover the pot and transfer it to the preheated oven. Cook for 2-1/2 hours or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 2-1/2 hours
Maple Butter Tarts with Walnuts
These classic Canadian tarts get a boost of flavor from the addition of maple butter and crunchy walnuts. Perfect for a sweet treat or dessert, these bite-sized treats are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 package frozen puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/4 cup pure Canadian maple syrup
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 1 egg, beaten (for brushing pastry)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Cut into 12 equal squares.
3. In a small bowl, mix together butter, maple syrup, and sugar until smooth. Spoon a small amount onto each pastry square, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle chopped walnuts over the butter mixture.
5. Fold the pastry squares in half diagonally to form triangles. Press edges together to seal.
6. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
7. Place tarts on prepared baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Fèves au Lard (Quebec-Style Baked Beans)
This traditional Quebecois recipe has been passed down through generations, and its rich flavors will transport you to the heart of French-Canadian cuisine. Fèves au Lard is a hearty, comforting side dish that’s perfect for family gatherings or special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1/4 cup lard (or vegetable oil)
– 2 onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. In a large Dutch oven or casserole dish, combine the soaked navy beans, lard, onions, garlic, ground mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 6-8 hours, or until the beans are tender.
4. Remove the foil and stir in the maple syrup.
5. Return to oven and bake for an additional 30 minutes, or until the beans are caramelized.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (plus 30 minutes)
Rillettes de Canard (Duck Rillettes)
Rillettes de Canard, or duck rillettes, is a classic French spread made from slow-cooked duck confit, which is then blended with cream and flavored with herbs. This rich and creamy spread is perfect for serving on crackers or toast points.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound duck confit (or substitute with pork belly or chicken)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F (135°C).
2. Remove the meat from the duck confit, and shred it into bite-sized pieces.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shredded duck and cook until heated through.
4. Stir in the heavy cream and chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 30 minutes or until the rillettes has thickened slightly.
6. Remove from the oven and let cool to room temperature.
7. Serve at room temperature, garnished with additional parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Blueberry Galette with Maple Whipped Cream
This rustic blueberry galette is a perfect summer treat, featuring fresh blueberries and a hint of maple sweetness. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream for a delightful dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 2 cups fresh blueberries
– 2 tablespoons granulated sugar
– 1 tablespoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a bowl, mix blueberries with granulated sugar, cornstarch, and salt.
4. Arrange blueberry mixture in the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Fold edges of pastry up over berries, pressing gently to seal.
6. Brush pastry with maple syrup and bake for 40-45 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Whip heavy cream with confectioners’ sugar until stiff peaks form.
8. Serve warm galette with a dollop of whipped cream.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Tourtière aux Fruits de Mer (Seafood Pie)
Tourtière aux Fruits de Mer (Seafood Pie) Recipe
This traditional Quebecois dish is a hearty seafood pie filled with a medley of ocean delicacies, perfect for a special occasion or cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 pound mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, mussels, clams)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
3. Add mixed seafood; cook until shells are open and seafood is opaque.
4. Stir in flour to coat seafood evenly. Gradually add heavy cream; bring to a simmer.
5. Roll out puff pastry on a lightly floured surface. Place mixture onto center of pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
6. Fold pastry over filling, pressing edges to seal. Brush with egg wash (beaten egg mixed with water).
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get cozy with these heartwarming French Canadian recipes! From classic tourtière to poutine, pea soup, and more, discover the rich culinary heritage of Quebec. Try your hand at making homemade gravy and cheese curds for a delicious poutine, or indulge in maple-glazed salmon with dill butter. Savor traditional dishes like split pea soup, creton (French Canadian pork spread), and baked beans with maple syrup and bacon. These comforting recipes are sure to become new family favorites.
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