When you think of the vast country of Canada, what comes to mind are its white, snowy stretches of land, the biting cold, its short but intense summers, and the immensity of its territory.
Canada is home to a multitude of different cultures spread across the country. To the northeast of the American continent, you can find a Canadian province known for its warm people – people who like to make the most of life, but also to eat.
Indeed, food is an integral part of the Quebecois culture and way of life. Quebec’s inhabitants never stop innovating in this area and revisiting the most popular traditional specialties, creating new dishes every year.
So, here’s a list of the best typical Quebec dishes that you’ll be able to enjoy on your next trip to Montreal.
Tourtière (meat pie)
If you’ve done any research at all prior to your visit, you’ll most likely have heard of Quebec’s famous meat pie, called Tourtière.
There are many versions that can put a unique spin on this recipe, but the tourtière from Lac St-Jean is without a doubt the most widespread and most popular one. Also called “Cipâte”, the puff pastry that covers this dish gives it a crunchy texture.
Moreover, the different game meats that make up the tourtière will give you a fantastic overview of the flavors of Québec. So, if you visit this famous lake, don’t forget to try the local tourtière!
Maple ham
Of course, the main ingredient of this typical dish served in Quebec’s sugar shacks does not come from America. However, as the world’s largest producer of maple syrup, the Quebecois people couldn’t resist putting their own twist on it to give it an incomparable taste. Sweet and savory flavors mix perfectly to make this a delicious dish that will brighten up your sugar shack season dinners.
There are several sugar shacks around Montreal that will delight you with their famous maple syrup, but the Sucrerie de la Montagne, located in Rigaud on the outskirts of Montreal, will definitely satisfy your sweet tooth.
Smoked Meat sandwich
This traditional Quebecois dish is among the most popular creations to have come out of Montreal’s kitchens. This smoked beef dish is usually served between two slices of rye bread filled with Dijon mustard.
The secret ingredient of this specialty is the dill pickle planted on top of the sandwich that accentuates its taste. If your trip takes you to Montreal, make sure to stop at Lester’s Deli in Outremont, or at the Schwartz’s restaurant in the Saint-Laurent district.
These restaurants are renowned internationally, and will not fail to introduce you to the legendary taste of Montreal’s Smoked Meat.
Pork leg stew
Don’t be put off by its strange name that may make you raise an eyebrow. Quebec’s pork leg stew truly has its place among the most typical dishes the province has to offer, and trying it will give you a taste of authentic Quebec.
With its fully organic ingredients, its scrumptious pork fat juice, and its very tender meat, this Quebecois dish is sure to surprise you. The best place to get a taste of this dish around Montreal is, of course, Au Pied de Cochon, one of Quebec’s best-known restaurants.
Poutine
Finally, you can’t talk about Québec without thinking of trying out the dish that has put Quebec’s culinary culture on the international scene. Said to originate from Victoriaville, poutine is made of a portion of French fries covered with grated cheese and brown gravy sauce that mixes and warms it all.
High in calories but delicious, this dish is without hesitation the most famous one to have come out of Quebec. It comes in infinite variations, so you’re bound to find a poutine that meets your expectations. At the Ma’am Bolduc or at Poutineville restaurant, you will be served one of the very best poutines you can find. Don’t miss it: your taste buds will remember it for a long time.
Conclusion
Ultimately, Quebec has a lot more to offer than pristine white slopes and a unique climate. This province will also make a lasting impression on all of your other senses, including your taste buds. When thinking about Quebec, you should picture an incomparably warm welcome, friendly locals, but also original, tasty, and comforting culinary specialties.
From tourtière to poutine or pork leg stew, everybody will find something to fill their belly and delight their palate thanks to the multitude of typical dishes available.
So, if your travels bring you to our wonderful province, take the time to explore the local food culture. It will leave you with happy and fond memories. Make sure to bring some maple syrup home because it’s one of the best souvenirs to buy in Canada.
