Canadian foods are regional. Poutine is common across the country now, mostly because cheese curds are available, and tourtiere is popular because there is a large population of French Canadians outside of Quebec. Maritime Canada foods, on the other hand, are more difficult to find or even make at home in the West. It’s next […] Read more
Stories by Sarah Galvin, BSHEc

Mid-winter meal preparation can use a little inspiration
We all need inspiration from time to time, especially in mid-winter. I reached out to friends and family for their favourite meals, and this was the response — a few healthy, easy meals to break up the winter while we await the local, fresh garden produce in a few months. Thai red curry chicken If […] Read more

Diabetics can eat well while still watching their health
Refined carbohydrates are unhealthy for people with diabetes. Instead, choose whole grains, a variety of vegetables, low fat meats and dairy products to stay healthy. Our bodies break down carbohydrates into sugar. This raises blood sugar levels. Complex carbohydrates, such as whole grains, break down more slowly so they are preferred. A registered dietitian will […] Read more

Effort to eat healthier starts with the right food choices
It is a new year and resolutions aside, many of us feel a renewed commitment to healthy eating. Make vegetables, fruits and whole grains the focus of your diet. Include fish, legumes and nuts and use olive or canola oil instead of butter. Foods to avoid for a healthy heart include red meat, bacon, hot […] Read more

Salads add colour, freshness, nutrition to holiday meals
Whether it is for the turkey dinner or for another time during the holiday season, salads add colour to the table and freshness to the menu. They also add nutrients. These are a few winter salads that may pique your interest. Prosciutto, pear & burrata salad Burrata is a ball-shaped Italian cheese made from cow’s […] Read more

Tinned Fish
Tinned fish has made a big comeback. Once seen as an economical way to feed the family, tinned fish is showing up in gourmet markets. It is one of this year’s trendiest foods. Tinned fish is also healthy. It is a good source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential nutrients and […] Read more

Imaginative touch helps make Christmas giving special
Gifting is as much fun as receiving. I have brought together some ideas for the person who loves to be in the kitchen. Gift cards are always welcomed. They are offered everywhere — wine stores, kitchen shops and grocery stores. Clubs and subscriptions are also popular. Monthly or quarterly deliveries for cheese, coffee and baking, […] Read more

Pate a choux is a unique way to bake for the holidays
Christmas baking is wonderfully predictable. We love shortbread cookies, Nanaimo bars, butter tarts and fruitcakes. But if you have a hankering for something different think about making Pate a choux. The Christmas wreath is especially apt for the season. The choux puffs can be made in advance and frozen. Pull them out and crisp them […] Read more

There are lots of options when pumpkin season arrives
Choose a firm pumpkin with no soft spots. The orange-skinned, round pumpkins are better for carving and decorating rather than eating. Pie pumpkins and sugar pumpkins are the best choices for cooking. Smaller pumpkins are sweeter and more flavourful than larger carving pumpkins. Cut pumpkin in half lengthwise. Place cut side down on baking sheet. […] Read more

Many prairie communities continue fowl supper tradition
Fowl suppers were an annual event in the farming community where I grew up. It was a time for everyone to get together and socialize after the busy harvest. Tables were set in the basement of our small country church and the ladies served a full turkey dinner. Pies were made by the neighbours and […] Read more