Exploring the Differences between Bacon and Peameal Bacon in Canada
No, it’s not bacon; at least not the type you're accustomed to. In Canada, the distinctions between bacon and ham are crucial, and the way these foods are consumed can vary significantly depending on the location and the type of cut.
Types of Bacon in Canada
When it comes to bacon in Canada, you might encounter side bacon or streaky bacon, which is often referred to as Canadian bacon in the United States. This type of bacon is typically a smoked, cured loin cut very thin and then fried. It perfectly complements eggs and is also a fantastic addition to a roll, often known as a bacon burger. Although Americans call it ‘Canadian bacon,’ it’s important to clarify that it’s not a distinct form of bacon in Canada.
Peameal Bacon: A Unique Canadian Delicacy
Peameal bacon, on the other hand, is a different cut of pork that isn’t prepared the same way as what Americans call ‘Canadian bacon.’ Unlike ham, it doesn’t look like bologna and isn’t challenging to distinguish. Peameal bacon is not sold in flat packs like Oscar Mayer lunch meat either. The closest American analogue would be a really thinly sliced pork chop, which still falls short of the exact nature of peameal bacon.
Peameal bacon got its name from its traditional preparation method, where the cut of meat would be rolled in ground peas before being sliced and cooked. However, in modern times, it is more commonly rolled in cornmeal rather than peameal. Despite this change, its historical significance persists, and it remains a beloved choice in Canadian cuisine.
Ordering Peameal Bacon in Canada
In restaurants, you can find peameal bacon as an optional menu item that you can substitute for ham or regular bacon with your eggs during brunch. However, if you want peameal bacon, you must specify that you want it. When ordering a bacon sandwich, what you'll receive is typically regular strip bacon unless you specifically ask for peameal bacon.
The most common way to enjoy peameal bacon is in a peameal sandwich. This dish features several slices of peameal bacon piled up in a bun, topped with various ingredients such as onions, tomatoes, mustard, and more. Like with the bacon, if you want a peameal sandwich, you'll need to explicitly order it.
The Origin of “Canadian Bacon”
It’s a misconception that the term “Canadian bacon” was invented by Canadians. This moniker was actually coined by a couple of Americans who bought a pork loin in Toronto and prepared it in a way that differed enormously from what Canadians would do with pork loin. They named it ‘Canadian bacon’ simply because they bought the meat in Canada; however, its preparation had no connection to true Canadian culinary practices.
These regional differences in bacon and its various types reflect the rich and diverse culinary heritage of Canada, offering both locals and food enthusiasts a delightful variety of flavors and textures to savor.