The holidays are a time of inspiration for many of us. The gatherings and sharing of love among friends and neighbours brings out an intense interest and curiosity. The joy and festivities may inspire you to experiment with holiday baking and other homemade treats.
We hope these simple and timeless recipes will bring back happy memories of your childhood holidays. Make them with friends and family. Cherish the time you spend together and the memories that you’re making this year with those you care most about.
Have a wonderful holiday season and best wishes for the new year.
Quebec pea soup
Homemade hot and hearty pea soup is full of vitamins, minerals, and an excellent source of protein. You can make it with or without meat, depending on your diet. This recipe is a very simple, almost rustic, soup that makes a good base to explore your own version. Look for an unsmoked ham hock in the meat department of your supermarket. If you can’t find one, a smoked ham hock will work – just reduce the salt in the recipe. Serve with oven-warmed bread and butter. Get the full recipe.
Real French hot chocolate
In the 18th century, chocolate was reserved for the Spanish and French elites. Today you can enjoy authentic French-style hot chocolate anytime you like. The secret is to use real baker’s chocolate and light cream. Try this quick and easy recipe for a thick, satisfying hot chocolate. Gently heat light table cream (or a dairy-free substitute) until steaming hot but not scalded. Remove from the heat and stir in grated, unsweetened or bitter-sweet baking chocolate until melted. Keep adding chocolate until it reaches the desired viscosity. Add your favourite sweetener to taste. Some people enjoy it extra thick, almost like a hot pudding. Serve with whipped cream and some fine chocolate shavings as a garnish. For a more sophisticated version, flavour with mint, a shot of espresso, or dark brown sugar to sweeten.
Queen’s shortbread
This classic shortbread recipe was a cherished holiday staple in 18th century Canada. It has just three ingredients and has been called one of the best shortbread recipes ever. Cream one cup of butter with one cup of sugar, then mix in four cups of flour and a pinch of salt. Roll out to 1/2” thick and cut our shapes with your favourite cookie presses. Bake at 350° until the shortbread is pale brown.
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