Jack's Ovens Menu Classics: The Steak Canadian
A couple of weeks ago, we began this new 'Menu Classics' series of blog editions with a look at our amazing Monterey Jack cheeseburger. We're back to get your mouth watering and your taste buds tingling with the second installment, focusing on a tantalising treat that never fails to satisfy: our delicious Steak Canadian...
Superbly savoury, the Steak Canadian is nothing less than a gastronomic work of art, a prime example of how culinary traditions, techniques and ingredients can blend, fuse and result in what is indeed a menu classic.
Based on the name of the dish, you probably won't be surprised to learn that the Steak Canadian originates in Canada, specifically from the province of Quebec. This region of Canada is known for its extremely diverse history: its development over many centuries was influenced by various indigenous groups, settlers from France and British/Irish colonials, to name just some (see below for more details about how these disparate influences resulted in the modern Steak Canadian).
One of the key things to emerge from the amalgamation and integration of these numerous cultural influences was Quebecois cuisine, which is characterised by a unique fusion of culinary traditions from the Old World with ingredients from the New World.
- Indigenous Peoples. The cuisine of Quebec was heavily influenced by the ingredients that were staples in the diets of people belonging to indigenous communities. Such ingredients included fish, beans, corn, game animals and the now world-famous maple syrup.
- French Settlers. Often referred to as 'les Canadiens', early French settlers brought their culinary traditions with them when they came to Quebec. French gastronomy emphasises bold, punchy flavours and incorporates very meticulous methods of preparation. The simple ingredients of the indigenous peoples were transformed by such sensibilities, enhancing the sophistication of the Quebecois cuisine.
- British & Irish Colonials. Adding further scope for gastronomic fusion, these immigrants to Canada introduced novel menu items like stews, roasts, pies and puddings. This influx of new ideas and flavour profiles blended with existing indigenous ingredients and French techniques.
One dish that emerged from this three-way fusion was of course the Steak Canadian, which was so delicious that it has been around ever since. To create the dish, top-quality steak is sliced very thinly then marinated with various seasonings before being fried to perfection and served on fabulously-fresh bread. Fries are a popular side dish for those with a hearty appetite!
There comes a point at which the ability of mere words to describe a Steak Canadian reaches its limit and this is that point. To complete the experience, you of course have to use your sense of taste so head down to Jack's Ovens one lunchtime and let us transport you to new gastronomic heights...
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