Quebec Sugar Pie | A Tradition Worth Keeping

Quebec Sugar Pie | A Tradition Worth Keeping

Richelle Fortin
Comfort Food, Crowd Pleasers, Desserts, Holidays, Homemade, Laura Secord Cookbook, making memories, Old Recipes, Thanksgiving, Thanksgiving make-ahead, Xmas, Christmas Holiday

"Quebec Sugar Pie has as many versions as cooks, but tradition demands that the filling be somewhat thin in consistency and, because of its richness, that the depth of the filling be much less than for pies in general." - Laura Secord Canadian Cookbook

This quote perfectly encapsulates how I've experienced sugar pie my entire life. These pies are a staple at every family gathering during the winter, especially during the holidays and Sugaring-Off season (maple syrup making season). For the longest time, I let my aunts handle the sugar pie making, but now it's our turn to carry on these beloved family traditions.

Sugar Shack Maple Roasted Ham

Sugar Shack Maple Roasted Ham

Richelle Fortin
Comfort Food, Laura Secord Cookbook, Old Recipes, Cabane è Sucre

Sugar shack ham is a Quebec classic, especially during maple syrup season. Inspired by the legendary Laura Secord Canadian Cookbook, this dish combines the sweetness of maple syrup with the richness of traditional flavors for a comforting meal.

Why you will love this recipe:

  • Effortless Elegance: This recipe requires minimal effort while delivering maximum flavor.

  • Maple Magic: The combination of maple syrup and ham creates a truly unique and delicious flavor profile.

  • Perfect for any occasion: This dish is versatile and suitable for a variety of occasions, from family gatherings to special dinners.

  • Nostalgic Appeal: This recipe evokes the warm and cozy atmosphere of a traditional Quebec sugar shack.

Spaghetti Sauce (Ragu) For a Crowd

Spaghetti Sauce (Ragu) For a Crowd

Richelle Fortin

Making spaghetti sauce from scratch can feel like a labor of love, but the payoff is so worth it! Store-bought sauces are convenient, but there’s something magical about simmering a pot of rich, hearty sauce filled with bold flavors and your favorite ingredients. This recipe has been perfected to feed a crowd and deliver compliments every time.

The secret ingredients? A little ketchup and Worcestershire sauce. This is from a recipe my mon used when making spaghetti sauce for 50, I do not remember from which book, but it had the Worcestershire sauce and ketchup and it stuck to me. You might think it’s odd, but trust me—they add a touch of umami and balance that makes this sauce unforgettable.

Zesty Lemon Garlic Chicken with Smoky Paprika and Polenta

Zesty Lemon Garlic Chicken with Smoky Paprika and Polenta

Richelle Fortin
Comfort Food, entree

Looking for a simple, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing dish? This Lemon Garlic Chicken with Roasted Vegetables is a recipe I’ve been making for years, and it never fails to impress! Juicy chicken thighs are seasoned with smoky paprika and paired with bright lemons, sweet peppers, and savory garlic to create a vibrant, Mediterranean-inspired meal.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can prepare it ahead of time, let the flavors meld during a slow cook, or whip it up quickly for a weeknight dinner. It’s a dish that feels special but requires minimal effort. Perfect for feeding a family or entertaining guests, this recipe is a keeper!

Bone Marrow Tomato Sauce Recipe: Rich & Flavorful Pasta Sauce

Bone Marrow Tomato Sauce Recipe: Rich & Flavorful Pasta Sauce

Richelle Fortin
Pasta, main meal

When the weather turns chilly, nothing warms the soul like a rich and hearty tomato sauce. This Bone Marrow Tomato Sauce is an unctuous, velvety recipe perfect for cozy winter days. Infused with the depth of roasted bone marrow and the brightness of quality tomatoes, it’s a versatile sauce you’ll turn to again and again. Whether served over veal parmesan, spooned onto cheese ravioli, or used as the base for a luxurious ragu or vodka sauce, this recipe will elevate any dish it accompanies.

While I recommend using high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor—like Hunt’s boxed tomato sauces or Italian market brands—you can still achieve incredible results with budget-friendly options. The addition of bone marrow takes this sauce to another level, adding richness, depth, and authentic Italian ragu vibes. Buon appetito!

Soft and Chewy Homemade Naan Recipe | Perfect for Curries & Dips

Soft and Chewy Homemade Naan Recipe | Perfect for Curries & Dips

Richelle Fortin
Breads, Comfort Food

Soft, pillowy, and irresistibly chewy, naan is the perfect companion to curries, dips, and grilled meats. Originating from Central and South Asia, with influences from the Middle East, naan has become a beloved staple in kitchens around the world. Interestingly, the word "naan" itself means bread, so calling it "naan bread" is a bit redundant — much like saying "chai tea" or "table mesa."

Easy Red Lentil Curry – Vegan, Flavourful & Healthy

Easy Red Lentil Curry – Vegan, Flavourful & Healthy

Richelle Fortin
main meal, Comfort Food

Bring warmth and bold flavors to your table with this easy and comforting Red Lentil Curry. Packed with nutrient-rich ingredients and aromatic spices like turmeric, cumin, and ginger, this curry is not only bursting with flavor but also offers incredible health benefits. Turmeric, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, makes this dish as good for your body as it is for your taste buds.

Goat Cheese Appetizer Log with Pistachios, Cranberries and Caramelized Shallots

Goat Cheese Appetizer Log with Pistachios, Cranberries and Caramelized Shallots

Richelle Fortin
Appetizer, Gluten Free, Homemade, Goat Cheese

I absolutely love a good charcuterie board – and honestly, who doesn’t? There’s always something for everyone. One of my favorite additions to a spread is a non-dairy cheese option, and goat cheese fits the bill perfectly. I’m especially fond of Le Cendrillon™, an ash-covered, soft-ripened goat cheese. Drizzled with local honey and paired with a crisp cracker (sometimes even one made from my own sourdough discard, speckled with sesame seeds and herbs), it's an elegant and flavorful bite.

Spelt Flour Brownies with Fresh Strawberries and Chocolate Ganache

Spelt Flour Brownies with Fresh Strawberries and Chocolate Ganache

Richelle Fortin
Desserts, Comfort Food, Brownies

If you're looking for a brownie that's indulgent yet wholesome, this spelt flour brownie recipe will become your new favorite. Spelt, an ancient grain known for its rich, nutty flavor and nutritional benefits, takes these brownies to the next level—dense, moist, and deeply chocolatey. The combination of silky ganache and fresh summer strawberries adds a burst of sweetness that perfectly complements the earthy tones of the spelt.

Citrus Holiday Biscotti – A Festive Recipe for Every Occasion.

Citrus Holiday Biscotti – A Festive Recipe for Every Occasion.

Richelle Fortin
Biscotti, Christmas, Desserts

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Festive and Flavorful: The combination of lemon, orange zest, and Cognac captures the spirit of the season in every bite.

  • Perfect for Gifting: Beautifully glazed and packed with holiday charm, these biscotti are a wonderful edible gift.

  • Versatile Treat: Great with morning coffee, as a mid-day snack, or as a dessert with a glass of wine.

  • Make-Ahead Friendly: Biscotti stay fresh for weeks, making them ideal for holiday prep.

  • Simple Yet Sophisticated: This recipe is easy to follow, yet yields a professional-quality treat.

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