Western Canadian Holiday
Giddy up! We’re fixin’ to have a Canadian-inspired cowboy Christmas. That’s why we’ve wrangled up five dishes - inspired by the Canadian West - that’ll have everyone at the dinner table hollerin’ for more.
1. Cowboy Boot Gingerbread Cookies
Cowboy boot gingerbread cookies are a Western holiday must-have. These boots were made for eatin’ with hot apple cider or egg nog. For added sweetness, use classically Canadian fancy molasses - you can add an extra tablespoon if you like your gingerbread on the softer side. Once cooled, decorate your boots with royal icing or leave them plain for a rustic, cowboy-ready look. Whether served on a platter for your holiday guests or nibbled straight from the cooling rack, these cookies bring a sweet and spicy Western twist to any holiday celebration.
2. Cowboy Butter Basted Turkey
Tip your hat to the star of the show. Infused with a smoky herbed butter blend that’ll have you saying, “yee haw,” this is a turkey dinner your guests won’t soon forget. With every baste of cowboy butter, the roast turkey turns more golden and juicy, creating a festive centrepiece made to wrangle up your hungry crowd. Tip: For the ultimate finishing touch, thicken the pan drippings with a little flour and broth to make a rich, cowboy butter–infused gravy.
3. Maple Butter Basted Canadian Cheddar Cornbread
We’re taking traditional cornbread to the next level this season. The secret? Pure Canadian Maple Syrup soaked into the bread. Baked with a golden crust and a tender, cheesy crumb, this cornbread is also made with aged Canadian cheddar. Served hot from the skillet, it's the ideal side to bring a little comfort (and a lot of Canadian pride) to your holiday feast.
4. Western Canadian Inspired BBQ Tater Tot Casserole
A bold and smoky twist on a classic comfort food for a cozy festive season at home, or on the range. This quick and easy casserole side dish means you spend less time cooking and more time savouring the season. Packed with lean ground beef, smoked sausage, and bell peppers, it's layered with baked beans and a mesquite BBQ sauce. The casserole is then topped with a blanket of tater tots, aged Canadian cheddar cheese, and smoked gouda cheese, and finished with crispy bacon and a sprinkle of green onions. Every bite is a balance of smoky, cheesy, and indulgent.
5. Western Canadian Inspired Green Bean Casserole
This ain’t your mama’s green bean casserole. Saucy and packed with a smoky mesquite flavour, this bold take on a classic holiday dinner staple will have you saddling up for seconds. Fresh green beans are blanched, then tossed with smoky sausage, crispy bacon, sautéed mushrooms, and a creamy mesquite-infused sauce. A topping of coarse rye breadcrumbs, smoked cheddar cheese, and more bacon adds a golden, crunchy finish. Baked until bubbly and fragrant, this casserole is a show-stopping side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal that calls for a little cowboy flair.