By: Taylor Tyczka
Montreal smoked meat (viande fumée) has become a staple food item that should be on everyone’s food bucket list! It is a hybrid of corned beef and pastrami. Typically, it is served on rye bread smothered in tangy mustard. In the early 1900s, Jewish delis developed this in Montreal; influenced by New York City’s famous pastrami, this heavenly sandwich is traditionally made by curing beef brisket with salts and spices. With smoky and savoury flavour combined with a peppery zing, it’s no wonder this traditional delicacy has made it’s way to Toronto over the years!
Photo taken from: www.tastetoronto.com
Along with bagels, smoked meat has been popular in Montreal since the 19th century and it has taken such strong root in the city that both Montrealers and non-Montrealers alike identify it as emblematic of the city’s cuisine. Schwartz’s, one of the most popular Montreal delis, is considered a melting pot for Montreal where all cultures converge and people of different classes can share tables when eating.
Photo taken from: www.foodandwine.com
Smoked meat has become well known far beyond its Jewish origins; the general population of Quebec has integrated smoked meat into popular French-Canadian dishes such as poutine. It is also found in Shanghai, New York, Chicago, and Toronto. Most delis and restaurant chains buy the main ingredients from meat processing plants for prepared beef briskets. The largest processing plant specializing in smoked meat is located on the island of Montreal is Levitts Foods in LaSalle, QC. Tourists and even current residents make a point of visiting smoked meat establishments within Toronto. In the city, Sid’s Deli, Peter’s on Eglinton and Wolfie’s Delicatessen Specialties come highly recommended as great places to try out this succulent masterpiece!
Photo taken from: http://www.fasken.com
Smoked meat sandwiches have been around for an extremely long time. They truly live up to the hype and tradition that surrounds this popular dish…. and deservingly so! I recommend for everyone to check out your local deli and grab a bite of this deliciousness!
Sources:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Montreal-style_smoked_meat
http://www.tastetoronto.ca/best-smoked-meat-sandwiches-in-toronto/
https://www.foodbloggersofcanada.com/montreal-smoked-meat-sandwich/
https://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/world/new-york-pastrami-v-montreal-smoked-meat/article4302539/
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