Food in Quebec is influenced by early French-Canadian settlers. It is a mix of traditional and contemporary recipes reflecting the heritage of these Canadian regions.
History
Quebec cuisine is influenced by French and aboriginal people; both of these groups cultivated recipes and food preparation. Areas of Quebec produce specialty food products like maple syrup and smoked meats.
Significance
Traditional French-Canadian dishes use pork for flavor and offer many ways it can be used in recipes. A popular Christmas dish, meat pie called Quebecois, combines pork and beef; veal can be substituted for pork in this recipe. Another traditional French recipe is called creton, a spread made of peas and salt pork that is eaten on crackers.
Function
Quebec manufactures maple syrup and maple sugar in sugar shacks, using both in many dishes. Breakfast dishes, like eggs, baked beans and bacon, are served with a generous topping of maple syrup. Maple sugar pie is one of the many desserts made with maple sugar.
Types
Contemporary cuisines blend old and new techniques. A popular fast food restaurant meal is poutine, made of french fries, fresh cheese curds and different gravies depending on the recipe---some use a meat sauce adding smoked meats and pineapple.
Features
Quebec is known for its wide range of restaurants, bistros, delis and international cuisines, which provide variety for residents and visitors. The rural environment is excellent for hunting and fishing, resulting in many seafood and meat dishes to choose from. Apples and berries are popular fruits from this region.
Tags: maple syrup, Food Quebec, smoked meats