National Canadian Bacon Day

A smiling chef holding a platter of perfectly cooked Canadian bacon, wearing a chef hat and apron, in a cozy kitchen setting.. — National canadian bacon day illustration

Welcome to the delicious world of National Canadian Bacon Day! It's a day dedicated to celebrating that glorious, mouthwatering meat that is the pride of Canada. So grab your griddles and get ready for a sizzling adventure into the history and tasty delights of this special day.

When is Canadian Bacon Day?

It's national canadian bacon day on the 3rd March.

The sizzling history

Did you know that Canadian bacon is not actually called 'Canadian' bacon in Canada? It's true! In Canada, it's referred to as 'back bacon.' The origins of this delectable meat date back to the early 19th century when British settlers brought their love for bacon to Canada. They introduced a method of curing pork loin by rolling it in peameal, which is ground yellow cornmeal.

Over time, this unique curing process became popular among Canadians, and the term 'Canadian bacon' was born. Now, it's enjoyed not only in Canada but also around the world as a delicious breakfast staple.

A favorite on breakfast plates

One of the most popular ways to enjoy Canadian bacon is in a classic breakfast sandwich. Picture a perfectly toasted English muffin with a golden, runny egg, a slice of melted cheese, and, of course, a thick and juicy slice of Canadian bacon. It's the kind of morning treat that can turn any frown upside down!

But Canadian bacon isn't limited to breakfast alone. Its versatility makes it a favorite ingredient in pizzas, salads, and even pasta dishes. Whether you're a die-hard bacon lover or just someone who appreciates its savory goodness, National Canadian Bacon Day is the perfect excuse to indulge in this tasty delight.

A celebration of sizzling goodness

On National Canadian Bacon Day, people across the country celebrate by cooking up all sorts of delicious dishes featuring this savory meat. From hearty breakfast feasts to mouthwatering lunch and dinner creations, the possibilities are endless!

So, gather your loved ones around the table, fire up the stove, and let the aroma of sizzling Canadian bacon fill your home. It's a day to appreciate the simple joy that comes from sharing a delicious meal and savoring every mouthful.

History behind the term 'Canadian Bacon'

1850

Introduction of peameal bacon to Canada

In 1850, peameal bacon was introduced to Canada by Irish immigrants. This type of bacon is made from pork loin, which is trimmed, cured, and rolled in cornmeal. The cornmeal coating gives the bacon a yellowish color and a slightly sweet taste.

1950

Renaming of peameal bacon to Canadian bacon

In the 1950s, peameal bacon started to be referred to as Canadian bacon outside of Canada. This name change was likely influenced by the fact that the bacon was commonly associated with Canadian cuisine. It gained popularity in the United States, where it was often served as a topping on pizza or in breakfast dishes.

1975

Appearance of Canadian bacon in the movie 'National Lampoon's Animal House'

In 1975, Canadian bacon received a significant boost in recognition when it appeared in the iconic movie 'National Lampoon's Animal House.' The movie portrayed the character played by John Belushi starting a food fight by throwing a slice of Canadian bacon at a fellow student. This scene further cemented the association of Canadian bacon with American popular culture.

1989

Canadian bacon debate in US-Canada relations

The term 'Canadian bacon' became the subject of a trade dispute between the United States and Canada in 1989. The US implemented a rule that defined Canadian bacon to be a specific cut of pork, causing controversy in Canada as it did not align with their traditional understanding of the term. This dispute highlighted the cultural differences and culinary interpretations between the two countries.

Present

International popularity and variations of Canadian bacon

Today, Canadian bacon is widely recognized and enjoyed outside of Canada. It is commonly found in various international cuisines and is often used as a topping for hamburgers, in breakfast sandwiches, and as a complement to eggs Benedict. Different countries have their own variations, such as the British-style back bacon and the Irish-style rashers, which further showcase the cultural impact and culinary adaptations of Canadian bacon.

Did you know?

Did you know that Canadian bacon is also a popular topping choice for Hawaiian-style pizzas? That's right, that unique combination of sweet pineapple and savory Canadian bacon has won the hearts (and taste buds) of pizza lovers around the world.