Winter in Canada is truly something special.
Once the snow starts falling, we know what starts to follow—yes, the cravings for comfort food. You start yearning for something warm and comfortable.
In this blog, we’ll dive into the top 10 winter comfort foods. You will know these aren’t just meals that fill your stomach. They also bring a cozy warmth that helps you feel snug, even when it’s freezing outside.
Winter Comfort Food #1: Poutine
Poutine is a Canadian favorite.
This internationally loved dish usually makes its presence known at outdoor events. So, what makes it a good comfort choice for winter?
The answer is in the hot gravy over cheese curds and crispy fries. This combo is perfect for winter days for a few reasons. The fries are satisfying on their own, but the rich sauce and gooey cheese warm you up like no other. This comforting warmth not only makes a chilly day feel much better, but also provides a good energy boost, which is especially useful in winter.
Plus, you can easily make it at home or grab it from a local spot.
Winter Comfort Food #2: Grilled Cheese & Tomato Soup
This is a simple but classic duo. Grilled cheese with tomato soup is the ultimate cozy meal. The crunchy bread paired with the smooth soup creates a delightful, easy meal that’s just so comforting.
You can easily swap out the cheese or add herbs to the soup for something new. Plus, you can enjoy it alone or with friends, making it great for any meal.
Together, they’re a quick, comforting meal. And they bring back memories of cozy family dinners by the fire on chilly nights.
Winter Comfort Food #3: Perogies
From classic combos, we move to another comforting favorite: Perogies.
These little dumplings are best served hot. They’re usually stuffed with potatoes, cheese, or meat and provide a good mix of carbs, fats, and protein to keep you full and energized in winter.
You can boil them, fry them, or even bake them. Customization isn’t much of a problem either; you can also add different toppings, like sour cream or onions, to mix things up.
Perogies are also a big part of holiday gatherings and family meals.
Winter Comfort Food #4: Jiggs Dinner
Continuing with hearty comfort, let’s talk about Jiggs Dinner.
This Newfoundland classic has salted beef, root vegetables, and cabbage. Cooked slowly in one pot, it mixes the flavors into a rich dish.
The long simmer fills your home with cozy, savory smells. Jiggs Dinner is great for winter holidays and family gatherings, adding a special touch to the season. Its tender meat and vegetables make it a perfect cold-weather meal.
Winter Comfort Food #5: Nanaimo bars
Nanaimo bars might be a sweet treat, but they’re perfect for winter.
They have layers of rich chocolate and creamy custard that make them super satisfying. Even a small piece is enough to hit the spot. The mix of chocolate, butter, and sugar creates a dense, sweet treat that’s great for cold nights.
They’re also great for prepping ahead and storing in the fridge for whenever you need a little pick-me-up.
Winter Comfort Food #6: Beaver Tails
Since we are talking about sweet treats, let’s talk about a winter treat that’s hard to beat. Beaver Tails—no, not the tails of the animal — are freshly fried dough topped with sweet goodies like cinnamon sugar, and they’re perfect for cold weather.
These doughy delights are warm and filling, making them ideal for a day of winter fun, whether you’re skating or hitting the slopes. You can usually find Beaver Tails at winter festivals. But if you fail to find them, don’t worry. They’re easy to whip up at home if you’re craving something delicious and comforting.
Winter Comfort Food #7: Spaghetti & Meatballs
Okay, we have talked about enough sweets. Let’s switch from sweet treats to something hot—spaghetti and meatballs!
The pasta and meatballs make for a filling meal, perfect for a long winter night. The rich tomato sauce, combined with savory meatballs and pasta, warms you up from the inside. This dish provides a satisfying mix of flavors and keeps you full.
You can easily prepare it in large batches, which is great for feeding a family during colder months. While it’s not originally Canadian, spaghetti and meatballs have become a winter favorite.
Winter Comfort Food #8: Chili
Spicy, hearty, and filling, chili is a go-to for winter. The combination of beans, meat, and spices creates a thick stew that’s packed with flavor.
The mix of meat, beans, and tomatoes creates a thick, hearty stew that keeps you full and warm. Plus, it’s easy to make in large quantities, making chili great for meal prep in winter. It even tastes better than leftovers.
That’s why chili is a go-to for winter potlucks, tailgates, or just a cozy night by the fire.
Winter Comfort Food #9: Bannock
Historians believe this warm and dense dish came to Canada from Scottish fur traders in the 18th or 19th centuries.
Bannock is a versatile, fry bread that pairs well with soups and stews. We know soups and stews are a must — especially in the winter days. Bannock may have a heavy history, but it’s made from pretty light ingredients, it’s easy to prepare and fills you up without a doubt. Whether baked or fried, it’s a comforting side to any winter meal.
Plus, its Indigenous origins make it a unique part of Canada’s food culture.
Winter Comfort Food #10: Mashed Potatoes
Seriously, who doesn’t love mashed potatoes? This is the perfect dish to wrap things up. They are crispy on the outside, creamy in the middle, and packed with warmth and comfort we all could use on a cold day.
It is easily the perfect side dish for any winter feast. Easy to make in large amounts, mashed potatoes shine during holiday dinners or cozy family meals.
Potatoes are hearty and starchy, making them a filling base for any winter meal. When you mix butter, cream, and potatoes, you get a smooth, rich dish that’s both comforting and delicious.
They’re easy to prepare in large amounts, making them perfect for winter meals like roasts or stews. Mashed potatoes also shine during holiday meals and family gatherings, adding a comforting touch to the table.
Conclusion
Winter comfort foods in Canada aren’t just for filling you up—they’re like a warm hug on a cold day.
Whether it’s something savory like poutine or sweet like Nanaimo bars, these dishes bring a cozy warmth that goes beyond eating. So, when the temperatures drop, don’t forget to grab your favorite dish and enjoy the comfort that winter food brings.
But if you’re not in the mood to cook but still want to learn about food, our blogs will definitely get your taste buds excited.
