I’m tired of the posts that seem to come up every month or so, calling out iconic Canadian foods as weird. They’re almost exclusively perpetrated by Brits and Americans. And the Americans, at least, should know better. Towit…
Another one popped up earlier this week. And sister Erin passed it on to me, as any dutiful food news researcher would. But this time, she also passed on her opinion that it was time I debunked the abiding myths surrounding such articles.
Case studies in silliness…
As a Canadian – one who’s come into contact with many Brits and Americans along life’s way – I can personally and authoritatively attest that many of authentically Canadian foods ridiculed by outside critics are the exact opposite – iconic creations beloved even beyond out Great White borders…
Ketchup Chips
Here, there’s a distinct dichotomy of opinion among non-Canadians. Some Brits say the sweet-tart red chips are yucky. Some Americans report coming north specifically to get them. Ditto, All-Dressed Chips. But I will allow that, even here in Canada, the two flavours under consideration are cult favourites, not mainstream choices.
Beavertail Pastries
This one is near and dear to my heart. The Beavertail hails from my town, Ottawa, the nation’s capital. And it’s been a symbol of Ottawa’s annual festivals, not to mention an anchor attraction at our world-famous Byward Market, for decades.
I always marvel at how American ‘reviewer’s make fun of the Beavertail, when they praise their own Funnel Cake. The two are actually remarkably similar, even if they are made in markedly different ways.
Coffee Crisp Bars
It’s a wafer-sandwich bar that’s stuffed with sweet coffee-flavoured cream, and coated in rich milk chocolate. It may well be unique among coffee-themed confections. I can personally attest that I’ve met not one, but two American visitors to my country who say they always pick up a case of Coffee Crisp to take home, anytime they’re here. Case closed.
Butter Tarts
My fave mini-pie, ever! My Aunt Dorothy made the best ones in the universe. Their unique flavour depends on achieving just the right balance between corn syrup, brown sugar and butter. Variations include additions or raisins and/or walnuts or pecans. These tarts are also unique, I believe, in that nobody makes a full sized pie with the same filling. They’re definitely not weird. More like a culinary masterpiece!
See also Maple Syrup Pie, which is a direct descendant of the Butter Tart, and may, in fact, be even more enticing…
I could go on and on…
We’ve already spotlighted other All-Canadian creations in this space: Tourtière, Nanaimo Bars, Bannock, ‘Canadian’ Pizza, Cherry Blossom Chocolates… And of course, that world-renowned Canadian classic, Poutine!
So remember… Next time someone tells you a traditional Canadian food is weird – wait until you try it before forming your own opinion!
~ Maggie J.