Tourtière

Tourtière is a traditional spiced meat pie that is often prepared between Christmas and New Year's Eve, but since it is so savory and fragrant, it doesn't stay on the menu for too long. Usually made with pork, it sometimes also includes beef for a different texture and flavor.

The meat is additionally enhanced with lots of onions, diced or mashed potatoes, and spices such as cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and allspice. The mixture of meat, herbs, and vegetables is served under a lid of golden, flaky pastry dough, making it an ideal winter meal.

Some sources say that the meat pies came to Canada with French immigrants in the 17th century, while some locals claim that it is a Québécois invention, originally using game meat instead of beef and pork. The dish takes its name from the round tin mould in which both sweet and savory tarts are traditionally baked.

Today, this festive twist on a classic Christmas pie is usually served with cranberry sauce, pickled beets, or anything sweet and sour with a kick, pairing nicely with the spicy meat and the flaky crust.