10 Food Dishes That Are Absolute Symbols of Canada

Are you thinking about taking a trip to Canada? As the second largest country in the world, Canada is a beautiful place to visit with family and friends. From inviting cities to stunning scenery at places like Banff National Park, Canada offers plenty for locals and visitors to enjoy. As you plan your trip, don’t forget to think about traveling for Canadian cuisine. Plan out your meals to ensure you get a taste of the food dishes that are symbols of Canada. Read on for some inspiration! 

#1. Poutine

If you’re trying to get the Canadian culinary experience, start your journey with poutine. This iconic Canadian meal originated in Quebec, and people enjoy it around the world today. There is nothing better than French fries topped with cheese curds and savory gravy. Poutine is simple yet comforting and is one of the food dishes that are symbols of Canada.

#2. Maple Syrup

Canadians prefer to call maple syrup “liquid gold” because it is one of the food dishes that are symbols of Canada. Maple syrup comes from the maple tree and is often the star of Canadian cuisine. In fact, the Canadian flag proudly boasts the maple leaf. While maple is a popular flavor in many Canadian dishes, the preferred way to enjoy the sweet treat is just how you would expect — on a tall stack of pancakes!

#3. Beavertails

Created in Ontario, beavertails are sweet Canadian pastries shaped like a flat beaver’s tail. This authentic treat is fried and topped with butter and different toppings. It was trademarked in 1978 and is still a staple dessert in Canada today.

#4. Montreal-style bagel

If you’re looking for authentic Canadian cuisine, travel to Montreal for a locally-made bagel. While the shape and look are similar to a bagel from New York City, Montreal-style bagels are sweeter and thinner with a dense texture. Also, bakers coat this style of bagel with seeds or salt, and it can be enjoyed in a cozy cafe during your travels.

#5. Hawaiian Pizza

While many people believe Hawaiian pizza originates from Hawaii, it is actually from Canada. This classic pie is topped with ham and pineapple. Pineapple is a traditional Hawaiian fruit, which prompted the confusion regarding this delicious pizza’s title. Hawaiian actually refers to the pineapple brand the creator, Sam Panopoulos, used. Regardless of where it came from, the question remains. Does pineapple belong on pizza?

#6. Tourtière

If you’re searching for Canadian comfort food, treat yourself to a piece of tourtière. Typically filled with beef, pork, or veal, this traditional meat pie originated in Quebec. In fact, tourtière is an iconic Canadian dish served at a New Year’s dinner.

#7. Montreal-style smoked meat

This famous deli meat sandwich originated in Montreal. The flavor comes from the smoked brisket, which resembles corned beef or pastrami on a sandwich. Indulge in this Canadian staple served on rye bread coated in yellow mustard.

#8. Sugar Pie

A popular dessert in Canada, sugar pie came to the country when French people immigrated from France. It is a classic, open pie with simple flavors. Maple syrup is a common sweetener in this dish. Sugar pie is also an iconic dessert to serve during holidays.

#9. Peameal Bacon

While many people refer to it as Canadian bacon, Peameal bacon is a Canadian culinary staple. Made with lean, boneless pork, Peameal bacon is a popular Canadian meat served during breakfast. It’s easy to find at delis, cafes, and local markets during your travels.

#10. Maple Taffy

You can’t visit Canada without tasting this classic sweet treat. Maple taffy originated in Quebec and is the perfect snack during a snowy day. It is traditionally made by pouring boiling maple syrup in the snow so it hardens immediately on impact. From there, roll the sticky syrup onto a popsicle stick and enjoy.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Marc Bruxelle/iStock via Getty Images