Discovering Newfoundland and Labrador, One Bite at a Time

#30CanadianFoods: Soft, fried bread treats & a delicious traditional meal from the Atlantic coast.

There’s something exciting about a challenge, especially when it involves food and proudly waving the Canadian flag. Welcome to the #30CanadianFoods challenge; a coast-to-coast culinary adventure where we’re highlighting unique foods from every province and territory in Canada. (For a more detailed intro to this project, check out the original post here.)

We’re kicking off in Newfoundland and Labrador, a place where rugged coastlines meet vibrant culture, and where food traditions are as hearty as the people. Supporting Canadian businesses means putting our dollars where our hearts are—in our communities—and discovering new companies, products, and tastes that make our country unique. Plus, it’s a great way to say a big, proud “no thanks” to U.S. imports while celebrating what’s grown, made, and crafted here at home.

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Contents

1. Newfoundland and Labrador: An Unforgettable First Stop

   1. The Distinct Culture of Newfoundland and Labrador

   2. Fun Newfoundland and Labrador Trivia

   3. If You Visit

2. Two Recipes, One Province, Two Cultures

   1. Newfoundland Toutons

   2. Fisherman’s Brewis

3. Stay Tuned for Prince Edward Island!

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1 } Newfoundland and Labrador: An Unforgettable First Stop

Newfoundland and Labrador is Canada’s easternmost province, made up of the island of Newfoundland and mainland Labrador. It’s where the Atlantic Ocean meets the rugged cliffs and colourful houses of St. John’s—the oldest city in North America. Life here is shaped by the sea, the wind, and a fierce sense of community.

Did you know? Newfoundland has its own time zone, half an hour ahead of Atlantic Time. Also, Labrador is home to the Torngat Mountains, one of the wildest, most untamed places in the country. 

Whether it’s the puffins, icebergs, or the ever-present sound of the ocean, there’s something magical about this place. You’ll also find the world’s largest population of humpback whales here, and the friendly, resilient spirit of the locals will make you feel right at home.

A harbour sunset photographed in St. Johns, Newfoundland by Jeff Smith on Unsplash

The Distinct Culture of Newfoundland and Labrador

What sets Newfoundland and Labrador apart from the rest of Canada is the province’s fiercely independent spirit. The people here are known for their hospitality, quick wit, and unshakeable pride in their heritage. They speak with a unique accent, shaped by centuries of isolation and a blend of English, Irish, French, and Indigenous influences. When someone greets you with a hearty “How’s she goin’?” you know you’re in for a chat.

Newfoundlanders are famous for their storytelling traditions, often sharing tales of their ancestors, fishing exploits, and local legends. 

In Labrador, the culture is deeply rooted in Indigenous traditions and connections to the land. Whether you’re attending a lively kitchen party or a community gathering, expect to hear plenty of stories, music, and maybe even a few tall tales.

Fun Newfoundland and Labrador Trivia

• The province’s floral emblem is the pitcher plant, a carnivorous species that thrives in boggy areas.

• St. John’s is not only the oldest city in North America but also one of the foggiest!

• Labrador tea, a traditional ingredient, has been used by Indigenous communities for centuries and is known for its earthy, calming flavour.

If You Visit

If you’re planning a trip to Newfoundland and Labrador, here are three must-visit spots:

1. St. John’s: Explore the vibrant capital, with its jellybean row houses and the stunning views from Signal Hill. Dive into the rich arts scene, with local music and storytelling taking centre stage in cozy pubs.

2. Gros Morne National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage site with fjords, mountains, and coastal pathways. The park is a hiker’s paradise and a geologist’s dream.

3. L’Anse aux Meadows: The site of the first known European settlement in North America. Imagine walking in the footsteps of the Vikings, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.

For a unique culinary experience:

• Mallard Cottage in St. John’s: A rustic spot known for its locally sourced dishes, housed in one of the oldest wooden buildings in North America.

• The Norseman Restaurant in L’Anse aux Meadows: A taste of the land and sea, inspired by Viking history, featuring fresh seafood and local ingredients.

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2} Two Recipes, One Province, Two Cultures

Newfoundland and Labrador might be one province, but it has two distinct cultural vibes. That’s why we’re giving you not one but two recipes—one from each region! (If you’re looking to order ingredients, check out the links through this post for products.)

Newfoundland Toutons

Toutons (rhymes with 'pout-ens') are soft, fried bread treats with a crispy outside and a tender, slightly chewy inside. Traditionally a breakfast or brunch item, they’re served warm with butter and a drizzle of molasses.

Prep Time: 5 minutes Cook Time: 10 minutes Total Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 pound of leftover white bread dough

• Canola oil for frying

Directions

1. Form dough into 2-ounce balls and flatten into 3-4 inch rounds (about 1/2 inch thick).

2. Let rest on a well floured surface for 15-20 minutes to rise a little. 

3. Heat 1/2 inch of canola oil over medium-low heat to about 275°F in a large skillet.

4. Fry toutons slowly until golden on each side (about 4-5 minutes per side).

5. Keep warm in a 250°F oven for 10 minutes if needed.

6. Serve with butter and a drizzle of molasses.

Newfie Lifestyle shows you how it's done.

Fisherman’s Brewis

Fisherman’s Brewis is a classic dish made from fresh cod, hard bread (hardtack), and crispy scrunchions (salted pork fat). When served with scrunchions on top or on the side, it’s called Fish and Brewis. Mixed together, it’s Fisherman’s Brewis.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs fresh cod fillets

• 5 cakes Purity Hard Bread (hardtack)

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 cups water

• 1 to 2 cups diced salt fat back pork

• Pepper to taste

• Scrunchions:

  • ½ cup salt fat back pork, diced

  • 1 large onion, diced

    
    

Directions

1. Soak the hardtack in water overnight.

2. Cook fish in salted water for about 20 minutes.

3. Heat the soaked bread thoroughly, use the water it was soaked in, and add salt. 

4. Remove from heat and drain, then mash with the cooked fish.

5. Fry the pork and onions until crispy and tender. Pour over the Fisherman’s Brewis and mix.

6. Serve hot. 

For an extra taste of the east coast, add some mustard pickles on the side. These ones are particularly popular.

Julie Hyde of Beauty and the Bay shows you how to make this dish.

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Stay Tuned for Prince Edward Island!

We’re just getting started! Next up, we’ll be diving into the culinary traditions of Prince Edward Island. If you’re feeling inspired, give one of these recipes a try and enjoy it with your friends.

Spread the word and help us celebrate Canadian food; share this post and join the  #30CanadianFoods challenge by posting your favourite Canadian dish, product, or recipe a day for 30 days; don't forget the #30CanadianFoods tag. Follow me on BlueSky for the next daily post.

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