Most people associate Canada with maple leaves, ice hockey, and cozy winter cottages. But if you ask any local, you’ll quickly learn that Canada’s food culture is no less exciting than any of its popular tourist attractions. The best part is that you won’t have to gain weight while visiting Canada since not every classic Canadian food comes with extra calories (luckily for us foodies).
In fact, Canada offers so many healthy traditional food options that you might even make them a part of your everyday diet.
In this article, we will talk about 5 of these healthy foods found in Canada that can support your health goals.
1. Maple Syrup
It is probably not a big surprise that the number one item on the list is maple syrup, considering it is basically the symbol of the whole country. Maple syrup is a natural sweetener that does not contain any refined sugar. That’s why it’s almost a crime to leave Canada without trying this delicious treat. While we can’t say that it’s completely healthy (yes, it’s still sugar), it’s a far better option compared to processed syrups if you use it in moderation.
That’s probably why local people tend to pour this syrup over as much food as possible. They think of it as the holy gift from nature. Some even believe that it brings extra luck to their everyday activities. For example, if any Canadian wants to win money while browsing Ohio sports betting promos, they might add a drizzle of maple syrup in their breakfast to boost their chances.
2. Manoomin (Wild Rice)
The plant of Manoomin, also called wild rice, is a popular Canadian food and can be sourced in Ontario. The word “Manoomin” translates as “the good berry” in Ojibwe. It is not actual rice but a grass that produces grains, so it might seem a bit strange. It has major cultural importance and is a part of a lot of traditional ceremonies. Besides, it has a very high nutritional value.
Manoomin stands out with its high amount of protein. It is also rich in fiber and antioxidants, and it is low in calories. More importantly, wild rice is gluten-free, so it is a perfect option for those who don’t eat gluten.
3. Canadian Wild Berries
Canada offers various types of berries that can only be found there. These include huckleberries, highbush cranberries, saskatoon berries, chokecherries, wild strawberries, and many more. You definitely will not get bored with exploring them and will not even gain weight.
Wild berries here are often used as sweeteners in meals or just as a quick, sweet, healthy snack, too. The real superpower of this fruit is that it is naturally very sweet, does not contain a high amount of calories, and is full of vitamins and fiber. If you want to add something sweet but healthy to your diet, Canadian berries are surely one of the best choices.
4. Three Sisters Stew
We have to admit: Three Sisters Stew is actually a North American national dish. However, it’s an important item in Canadian cuisine and has the meaning of balance, unity, and nourishment. The main ingredients that symbolize “the three sisters” are beans, corn, and squash. Each of them makes the dish absolutely suitable to fit into your healthy meal plans.
The stew contains plant-based protein, which means it is a vegetarian and vegan-friendly meal. It is also full of fiber and vitamins like A, B, and C, plus iron and magnesium, so it is a great option for those who suffer from iron deficiency as well.
5. Game Meats
To most people, the word combination “game meats” might sound strange, but it is actually food that you will come across in Canada. They include the meat of wild animals. Hunting is a very common activity in this country. In some households, especially in rural regions, it’s usual to hunt wild animals like deer, ducks, rabbits, moose, and very rarely even bears. These people consider eating the meat of these animals important for their health and try to make the most of its nutritional value.
Game meats are higher in protein than any other regular meat and richer in zinc, iron, and B vitamins. They are also popular for their distinctive taste, so you should definitely not miss out on them.
Bottom Line
Visiting countries like Canada can be a real adventure, not just for exploring nature and culture, but for its healthy food as well. This country has various food items that are absolutely worth trying. You don’t even have to worry about losing your shape and can even include these foods in your regular healthy diet.
If you’re visiting Canada and have trouble choosing what to eat that’s healthy, after reading this article, you know where to start. These five foods will surely make an impact on your diet.
Leave a Reply