Canada, with its vast coastline, is a seafood lover’s paradise. The Atlantic Provinces and British Columbia’s West Coast offer exceptional seafood dishes that celebrate the country’s maritime heritage. In this showdown, we delve into the battle of flavours, exploring the best seafood dishes from each region and determining which coast reigns supreme.
Canada’s Atlantic Provinces:
Lobster Suppers (New Glasgow Lobster Suppers, Prince Edward Island): Prince Edward Island is renowned for its lobster suppers, a feast that showcases the region’s succulent lobsters. New Glasgow Lobster Suppers is a must-visit destination, serving perfectly cooked lobsters with a range of sides such as buttery potatoes, creamy coleslaw, and fresh rolls.
Fish and Brewis (Raymond’s, St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador): Fish and Brewis is a traditional Newfoundland dish that combines salted codfish with soaked hard bread (hardtack). Raymond’s in St. John’s offers a contemporary twist on this classic, presenting the dish with pan-seared salt cod, crispy salted beef, and flavorful local ingredients, resulting in a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.
Digby Scallops (The Canteen, Dartmouth, Nova Scotia): Digby scallops, sourced from the Bay of Fundy, are renowned for their plumpness and sweet flavour. The Canteen in Dartmouth showcases these delectable scallops in dishes such as seared scallops with citrus beurre blanc or bacon-wrapped scallops, tantalizing the palate with their succulence and delicate flavours.
British Columbia’s West Coast:
Pacific Halibut and Chips (Go Fish, Vancouver): Go Fish in Vancouver offers a delightful twist on the classic fish and chips, using sustainably caught Pacific Halibut. The fish is coated in a light batter, deep-fried to perfection, and served with hand-cut fries and tangy tartar sauce. The freshness and flakiness of the halibut make this a standout dish.
Spot Prawn Boil (The Fish Counter, Vancouver): Spot prawns, a prized delicacy, take center stage in this West Coast feast. The Fish Counter in Vancouver offers a spot prawn boil featuring plump and succulent prawns cooked with aromatic spices and served with butter, lemon, and dipping sauces. The interactive experience and exquisite flavours make this a favourite among seafood enthusiasts.
Pacific Salmon Sashimi (Blue Water Cafe, Vancouver): British Columbia’s West Coast is renowned for its exceptional salmon. Blue Water Cafe in Vancouver showcases the beauty of Pacific salmon through its exquisite sashimi platter. This dish highlights the region’s seafood excellence with its vibrant colours, buttery texture, and fresh flavours.
The Verdict:
While Canada’s Atlantic Provinces and British Columbia’s West Coast offer an impressive range of seafood dishes, determining which coast reigns supreme is a personal preference. The Atlantic Provinces boast succulent lobster and traditional delicacies like Fish and Brewis, while the West Coast dazzles with its fresh halibut, spot prawns, and Pacific salmon. Ultimately, the winner depends on individual tastes and the desire for specific culinary experiences.
Regarding seafood, Canada’s Atlantic Provinces and British Columbia’s West Coast present delightful flavours and culinary traditions. From lobster suppers and Digby scallops to Pacific halibut and spot prawn boils, each region offers a unique and unforgettable seafood experience. Whether you find yourself on the East Coast or the West Coast, prepare to indulge in the best that Canada’s rich coastal waters have to offer.
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