Cannons, Cookies & Coastal Charm

#30CanadianFoods: Culinary Time Travel Through British Columbia

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© Parks Canada

Welcome to British Columbia, where the Pacific whispers tales of explorers, soldiers, and settlers. While BC is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, it's also a treasure trove of history and heritage cuisine.

In this installment of the #30CanadianFoods series, we're delving into the province's storied past, exploring historic sites, and savouring recipes that have stood the test of time.

Explore the entire #30CanadianFoods series here.

🌲 A Tapestry of Cultures: The Rich History of British Columbia

British Columbia's history is a mosaic of Indigenous traditions, European exploration, and multicultural influences. The province's coastal regions were home to Indigenous communities for thousands of years before European contact. The arrival of explorers, fur traders, and settlers introduced new dynamics, leading to the establishment of forts, lighthouses, and railways that played pivotal roles in shaping the region.

🏰 Fort Rodd Hill National Historic Site

Guardian of the Coast

Perched on the southern tip of Vancouver Island, Fort Rodd Hill stands as a testament to Canada's coastal defence history. Active from 1895 to 1956, this coastal artillery fort was designed to protect Victoria and the Esquimalt Naval Base.

Visitors can explore well-preserved gun batteries, underground magazines, and military command posts. The site's strategic location offers panoramic views of the Juan de Fuca Strait, making it a favourite spot for history buffs and nature enthusiasts. 

Photo of cooks at Fort Rodd Hill. © Parks Canada

💡 Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Site

Guiding Light and Maritime Tales

Next to Fort Rodd Hill, the Fisgard Lighthouse has been a beacon for mariners since 1860. As the oldest lighthouse on Canada's west coast, it played a crucial role in guiding ships through the treacherous waters of the Strait of Juan de Fuca. 

Today, visitors can tour the lighthouse and its museum, which houses exhibits on shipwrecks, storms, and the lives of lighthouse keepers. The surrounding area, with its scenic trails and ocean views, adds to the site's allure.

🎃 The Ghostly Tales of Fisgard Lighthouse

Beyond its historical significance, Fisgard Lighthouse is also shrouded in mystery. Local legends speak of ghostly apparitions and unexplained phenomena within its walls. Visitors have reported flickering lights, eerie sounds, and the feeling of being watched. Whether you're a skeptic or a believer, the lighthouse's spectral stories add an intriguing layer to your visit.

🏛️ Other Heritage Sites & Museums to Explore

Looking for other interesting sites to explore if visiting B.C.? Check these out: 

• Royal BC Museum: Located in Victoria, this museum offers comprehensive exhibits on British Columbia's natural and human history. 
  

• BC Forest Discovery Centre: Situated in Duncan, this open-air museum showcases the province's forestry history with vintage logging equipment and train rides.
  

• Nikkei National Museum & Cultural Centre: Located in Burnaby, this center preserves and promotes the history and culture of Japanese Canadians.  

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🐟 Recipe: Granny Canning’s Finnan Haddie

Finnan haddie, a smoked haddock dish from Scotland, became popular in Canada through Scottish immigrants. This particular  Parks Canada recipe was provided and cherished by staff member Dave King, and evokes memories of traditional meals prepared at Fisgard Lighthouse.

Ingredients

• 1 large white onion, thinly sliced

• 1 lb | 450 g smoked haddock fillet

• 1½ tsp | 7.5 g mustard powder

• ½ tsp | 2.5 g ground black pepper

• 2⅔ cups | 650 ml milk

• 1 finely chopped syboe (green onion)

• 2 oz | 60 g salted butter

• 2 tsp |10 g sifted flour

• 1 bunch finely chopped parsley

Directions

1. Spread the sliced onion on the bottom of a medium-sized saucepan.

2. Flake the smoked haddock, removing bones, and layer over the onions.

3. Mix mustard powder and pepper into the milk, then pour over the fish and onions.

4. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then simmer covered for 6 minutes.

5. Uncover and simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

6. Transfer the fish to a warm serving dish.

7. Simmer the remaining sauce for another 5 minutes.

8. Gently whisk in butter and chopped syboe, then gradually add flour. Bring sauce back to a gentle boil stirring continually until the sauce thickens.

9. Ladle the sauce over the fish, garnish with parsley, and serve. 

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🍪 Recipe: Canadian Army Molasses Cookies

This molasses cookie recipe hails from the official 1946 Canadian Army Cook’s Manual, and is provided by Parks Canada. It was used extensively in military cookhouses, including those at Fort Rodd Hill. The portions here are designed for a large batch of hungry soldiers. You can half or quarter the measurements for a smaller batch. 

Ingredients

• 2¼ cups | 800 g molasses

• 2 ¼ cups | 500 g shortening

• 1¼ cups | 280 g sugar

• 2¼ cups | 560 ml sour milk

• 3½ tsp | 15 g baking soda

• 2 ½ tsp | 13 g salt

• 4 tsp | 20 ml finely grated ginger

• 2 tsp | 10 ml cinnamon

• 9 cups | 1.2 kg flour

Directions

1. Heat molasses and shortening together and cool.

2. Add remaining ingredients and mix thoroughly.

3. Form into rolls about 2” in diameter, wrap in waxed paper, and chill for 2-3 hours.

4. Slice and bake on a greased baking sheet in a medium oven (350°F | 180°C) for 15-20 minutes.

5. Let cool slightly then enjoy!

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🧭 Final Thoughts

British Columbia's historic sites offer more than just scenic views; they are gateways to understanding the province's rich tapestry of cultures and stories. By exploring these landmarks and recreating traditional recipes, we connect with the past in meaningful ways. So, don your apron, preheat the oven, and embark on your culinary time travel adventure.

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