Explore the rich flavours of Newfoundland, an island province in eastern Canada, it boasts a unique culinary heritage that has been shaped by its rich history, rugged landscapes, and abundant coastal waters. Traditional foods in Newfoundland and Labrador include a mix of indigenous, Irish, English and Scottish Newfoundland traditional cuisine and offers a hearty and flavourful experience that is cherished by locals and visitors alike. In this blog post, we will explore 10 beloved local favourites that represent the essence of Newfoundland's culinary culture.
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THE MOST FAMOUS OF ALL FOR TRADITIONAL FOOD IS JIGGS DINNER
Jiggs Dinner- The Ultimate Scoff
Also known as "boiled dinner," Jiggs Dinner is a quintessential Newfoundland dish that is typically made with salt beef, root vegetables such as carrots, turnips, and cabbage, and served with peas pudding and savoury gravy. It is a comforting and filling meal that is often enjoyed on Sundays or for special occasions. In recent years, Newfoundlanders modified the dinner to call it Sunday dinner. Now, You could potentially have Sunday Dinner on Thursday for supper! This spread traditionally had chicken or pot roast, salt beef, root vegetables, molasses pudding and sometimes blueberry pudding. Traditional Jiggs dinner was not served with gravy or meat but Sunday dinner was! Another tradition is to make what we would call hash. Left overs would get mashed up and friend in a pan with butter. It was then served with mustard pickles and beets in our household! Jiggs' Dinner is a definite staple in the Newfoundland and Labrador kitchen.
Cod Tongues: Modern Day Delicacy
Newfoundland's long history of fishing is reflected in its love for cod tongues. These crispy and flavorful morsels are actually the muscle from the cod's throat and are typically breaded and fried until golden brown. They are often served as a delicious appetizer or snack. My fav way to enjoy this Newfoundland delicacy is fried with what us Newfoundlanders call Scrunchions, which is pork and onions! They are like really fancy Hors D'oeuvres and most often served with cocktails!
Fish and Brewis
This dish combines two staples of Newfoundland's culinary heritage - salt fish and hard tack, a type of hard bread. In the old days hard bread, as we called it, occupied the pantry of many households as the shelf life was long. Before refrigerators this was considered a staple as well. The salt fish is soaked overnight to remove excess salt and then boiled with the hard tack until tender. The dish is usually served with a scrunchion, which is fried salt pork, and a drizzle of molasses for a touch of sweetness. Personally I couldn't really take to the Fish and Breiwis as I prefer traditional pan fried codfish the best!
Toutons
A beloved breakfast treat in Newfoundland, toutons are made from dough that is fried in pork fat or butter until golden and crispy on the outside, but soft and doughy on the inside. They are often served with molasses or maple syrup, making them a deliciously satisfying morning meal. I love them with jam too or coated in cinnamon sugar! The best way to describe these would be like a Beavertail!
Bolongna
For many Newfoundlanders, bologna and Newfie steak are nostalgic foods that remind them of their upbringing and the simpler times when these dishes were a part of everyday life. It is important to note that while bologna, or "Newfie steak," has historical and cultural significance in Newfoundland, it's just one example of how the province's cuisine has evolved over the years. Today, Newfoundland cuisine has diversified, incorporating a wide range of ingredients and international influences. However, dishes like Newfie steak continue to hold a special place in the hearts and memories of Newfoundlanders as a symbol of their rich culinary heritage and resourceful spirit. There is even a cookbook with creative recipes for the infamous processed meat that graced the tables of many households in Newfoundland and Labrador in the past! The above photo is of a bologna burger, a thick slice BBQed and paired with a soft brioche bun topped with mustard pickles! It was actually really tasty. The ingredients of such a traditional food is not quite known which has always been intriguing to me. Me, I do not eat it often but when I do its a thick slab on me mudders homemade bread with mustard! Get in my belly....
Pea Soup with Dough Boys
Pea soup is a classic comfort food in Newfoundland, made with split peas, carrots, turnips and sometimes ham or salt beef for added flavour. It is often served with dough boys, which are dumplings made from flour, baking powder, and water, and boiled in the soup until they are light and fluffy. This is a personal fav of mine as well. My Mother makes a mean pot of Pea Soup and it reminds me of my childhood! Me, I only tried to made it twice and once it was runny and the other its was super thick, so I always resort to mamas or a local restaurant!
Fish Cakes
Fish cakes are a popular snack or side dish in Newfoundland, made with mashed potatoes, flaked fish, and seasonings such as onions, salt and pepper. The mixture is formed into patties and fried until crispy on the outside, while remaining moist and flavorful on the inside. Often served with mustard pickles or relish these are delightful! They are quite delish and they are totally a fav for both locals and travellers!
Moose Stew and Sausage
Moose hunting is a popular tradition in Newfoundland, and moose stew is a delicious way to enjoy this game meat. The stew is typically made with moose meat, potatoes, carrots, onions, and other vegetables, and slow-cooked until the meat is tender and the flavors have melded together. The traditional way to cook Moose would be to cook it in stew or pot roast style but in recent years this game meat has made it to creative new recipes for eggs benny and flavoured sausage! We enjoy the sausage mostly at breakfast time!
Lobster
Newfoundland's coastal waters are teeming with lobster, and this prized seafood is a favorite among locals. Lobsters are typically boiled or steamed and served with melted butter for dipping. The sweet and succulent meat is a delicacy that is often savored on special occasions. Nowadays seafood is a delicacy for sure, but years ago every table on the island served it almost daily. My Grandfather was a fisherman, we always had fish and seafood whenever we wanted. I totally took that for granted!
Blueberry Pudding
Newfoundland is known for its wild blueberries, and blueberry pudding is a beloved dessert that showcases this local ingredient. The pudding is made with fresh or frozen blueberries, sugar, and a simple batter, and is baked until bubbly and golden. It is often served with a dollop of whipped cream or Fussells cream....another Newfoundland favourite! There are many varieties of this recipe available in the province as well!
The Elusive Newfie Hors D"oeuvres
Every true Newfoundlander's childhood is incomplete without these legendary snacks! If you can master the art of skewering Vienna sausages, cheddar cheese cubes, and gherkins onto a toothpick, then you, my friend, are the hostess with the mostest! These lip-smacking snacks are a staple at family gatherings, especially during the yuletide season. Feeling adventurous? Take it up a notch by adding mini pickles, onions, ham, or even moose sausage to your platter! Trust us, it'll add that extra oomph of flavor that'll make your taste buds tingle with delight. Either way, these snacks have that special "jus nu say qua" that'll leave your guests asking for more! The Vienna sausage is kind of a mystery meat and the ingredients are not quite known! Whoops!!
Newfoundland has become a food lover's paradise, with culinary experiences that draw fans from all over Canada and beyond! The province's unique flavors and dining experiences have sparked a foodie revolution, where visitors can explore local cuisine and indulge in unforgettable culinary adventures. With a focus on presentation and ambiance, restaurants go all out to create stunning, Instagram-worthy dishes that showcase the natural beauty of the region. And the party never stops with food festivals like Roots Rants and Roars, Brigus Blueberry Festival, and Seafood, Stages and Songs popping up to give chefs a chance to strut their stuff and share their latest foodie trends. Come hungry and leave happy!
So what are you waiting for? Start your adventure in Newfoundland Labrador!
Start your Journey in St John's, Newfoundland Labrador. St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, is a city that captivates with its unique blend of history, vibrant culture, and stunning coastal landscapes. Nestled on the eastern tip of the Avalon Peninsula, it stands as the provincial capital and the easternmost city in North America. St. John's is renowned for its picturesque setting, characterized by colorful row houses adorning the hillsides, a lively waterfront, and dramatic cliffs overlooking the North Atlantic. Signal Hill offers panoramic views of the city and the iconic Cabot Tower, a symbol of communication history.
As one of North America's oldest cities, St. John's is steeped in maritime history. The historic Water Street, lined with charming shops and restaurants, narrates tales of centuries-old trade and seafaring adventures. The presence of Fort Amherst and the charming Battery neighborhood further echoes the city's military past.
The city is a vibrant cultural hub, hosting numerous festivals, live music events, and a thriving arts scene. George Street, known for having the most bars and pubs per square foot in North America, comes alive with music and merriment, making it a nightlife hotspot.
St. John's is home to warm and welcoming locals known for their friendliness and distinctive Newfoundland dialect. Engaging with the community provides a firsthand experience of the region's hospitality and unique sense of humor.
Surrounded by rugged coastline, St. John's offers access to an array of outdoor activities. From hiking the East Coast Trail to whale watching tours, the city provides an ideal base for exploring the natural wonders of Newfoundland and Labrador.
The city experiences a maritime climate with cool summers and mild winters. Fog often rolls in from the Atlantic, adding an ethereal quality to the coastal landscape. Come prepared for all four seasons!
In summary, St. John's is a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its charm and explore the rich tapestry of Newfoundland and Labrador's heritage.
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