Quebec, Canada 4/12/2024
If you have ever had the fortune of traveling to Quebec City, you could not miss walking the “Plains of Abraham” just outside “La Citadelle” or fortress of Quebec . Quebec City is a historic city on the St. Lawrence River in Quebec and is one of the only completely walled cities remaining in North America.
Between 1754 and 1763, the French and English also fought for dominance in North America. While the wars raged in Europe, the war in North America was between the French and their Indian allies and the British and their Indian allies. The war was later called the “French and Indian war”. The Fields of Abraham in Quebec City mark the spot where the English under General Wolfe defeated the French on September 13, 1759. Although the war continued until 1763, the loss of Quebec City marked the end for the French. At the end of the war, the French ceded all its remaining North American territories to the English. Although the English were victorious, the State of Quebec and the City bearing it name, retained French culture and language.
If you have an opportunity to walk the Plains of Abraham, you will notice a battery of field artillery on a path near the La Citadel. These German guns were captured by Canadian forces during World War One. Considering they were built before 1918, served in combat and remained outside since, they are in remarkably good condition. Some of the pieces look as if a little polishing could make them ready to fire again. The guns serve as a reminder of the important role Canadians played in WW1 and the quality of the field artillery in use at the time. The Plains of Abraham are a perfect place for history buffs to explore or just a casual scenic walk in this historic park.
There are many more sites to take in during a tour of Quebec City. The City offers a rich culinary heritage… some iconic Quebec foods are a must try and these include:
Poutine:
Perhaps the most famous Quebec food, poutine consists of crispy fries topped with savory gravy and cheese curds. It’s a comforting and indulgent dish that you’ll find everywhere, from fast food joints to gourmet restaurants.
Tourtière:
Tourtière is a classic meat pie, often filled with seasoned minced beef, pork, or game meats. Wrapped in a flaky pastry crust, it’s a staple during Quebec Christmas festivities and is also enjoyed for breakfast or brunch.
Montreal Smoked Meat (Viande Fumée):
A cousin to New York’s pastrami, Montreal smoked meat is a flavorful, slow-cooked beef brisket sandwich. It’s typically served on rye bread with mustard.
Maple Baked Beans (Fèves au Lard):
Quebec’s love affair with maple syrup extends to its baked beans. These sweet and savory beans are slow-cooked with maple syrup, molasses, and sometimes bacon.
Pea Soup (Soupe aux Pois):
Hearty and warming, pea soup is a Quebec favorite. Made with split peas, vegetables, and often ham or smoked meat, it’s perfect for cold winters.
Hot Chocolate (Chocolat Chaud):
Quebec winters call for rich and velvety hot chocolate. Look for variations with whipped cream or a dash of maple syrup.
Tarte au Sucre:
Also known as sugar pie, this dessert features a buttery crust filled with a gooey mixture of brown sugar, cream, and eggs. It’s sweet, decadent, and utterly delicious.
Pouding Chômeur:
Translated as “unemployed person’s pudding,” this dessert is made from simple ingredients like cake batter and brown sugar. It’s a comforting treat that originated during the Great Depression.
Maple Taffy (Tire sur la Neige):
During maple syrup season (spring), hot maple syrup is poured onto fresh snow, creating a chewy, sweet taffy. It’s a fun and seasonal treat.
French-Canadian Crêpes:
Quebec’s version of crêpes, known as “crêpes bretonnes,” are thin pancakes filled with various sweet or savory fillings.
Chemac Inc. travels to many destinations visiting customers and clients and enjoys sharing travel tips for unique spots. Quebec City is one of the destinations we recommend stopping in and experiencing. From the “old town”, historical treasures to culinary experiences, this city is worth a visit.
