While many are excited about Thanksgiving in November, notably Canadians observe their Thanksgiving a month earlier, on October 14th. Reigniting the traditions of gathering with family and feasting on mouth-watering meals, the Canadian Thanksgiving is a special occasion indeed.
Notably, Canadian Thanksgiving, having its cultural root and historical commencement from 1879, bears some resemblance to the American Thanksgiving yet retains its own charm. Initially observed by the Protestant clergy leaders in 1777 for praising the fall harvest, it gradually transformed from a religious festival to a national holiday fostering unity and gratitude. It’s now marked every second Monday of October and cherished as a three-day long weekend across the country except for Atlantic provinces such as Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, Prince Edward Island, which consider it an optional holiday.
Thanksgiving, be it in Canada or America, has always been synonymous with delightful dishes, gathering friends and family over the dinner table. The prime dish of the Thanksgiving meal largely remains the same – a fortifying roast turkey, rich gravy, sumptuous mashed potatoes, and nutrition-packed stuffing. An interesting side note to mention here is the distinctive approach of Newfoundland and Labrador provinces toward Thanksgiving dinner. They serve the unique “Jiggs’ Dinner” comprising corned beef, root, and split peas.
As Thanksgiving winds down toward the end, it’s time for dessert as the cherry on top of the lavish meal. Pumpkin pie, a common dessert during American Thanksgiving, too, has a special place in Canadian Thanksgiving. What differentiates the Canadian version is its more spiced flavor created by merging cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cloves. In addition, Sugar Pie and Butter Tarts add sweetness to the dessert spread in many Canadian homes, crowning the sophisticated meal with their luscious taste.
Revealing a Canadian Thanksgiving’s taste can best be done through some traditional recipes. Here’s an aromatic and sweet pumpkin pie recipe from Canadian Food Focus Blog to give you a real taste of Canadian Thanksgiving. Notably, the recipe and video emphasize preparing the pie crust from scratch. However, we will focus on the key steps for preparing the pie filling and baking the pie.
To prepare the aromatic filling and bake the pie, preheat the oven to 425°F with the rack in the lowest position. In a bowl, blend the eggs until whipped and then whisk in pumpkin. Gradually add granulated sugar, brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, ginger, and cloves, and whisk until mixed. Add half-and-half gradually. Pour the blend into pie shells, dividing equally, and then grate fresh nutmeg over the top.
Bake in the oven for 15 minutes. Then reduce the temperature to 350°F and bake for about 40 to 50 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean. Note that the baking time may vary depending on the type of pie plate used – a metal pie plate usually takes less time compared to a glass pie plate. Allow the pies to cool completely on a wire rack before serving. Serve the pie with whipped cream and unlock the essence of traditional Canadian Thanksgiving. The pies can be stored, loosely covered with foil, at room temperature for up to a day. Refrigerate leftovers for up to two days longer for later delight.
Offering a refreshing blend of unity, gratitude, and culinary delights, the Canadian Thanksgiving, with its rich history, unique dishes, and traditions, is indeed a festival to experience.
