Quebec is known for many things from beautiful scenery to historic buildings to culinary delights. When you say the word “Bagel” it can instantly be translated into one word, DELICIOUS! With so many other items of Quebec that can bring attention to the Province why does the bagel stand out from the crowd and not only bring Quebec top of mind, but the city of Montreal to mind?
If you’ve read previous blog posts you’ll know that poutine is one of my favourite foods from the region and the version “avec salad” is my all time favourite. I will drive 8 hours just to get that specific poutine version from a small town called Coleraine Quebec. If I had to choose my second fave food from the area the bagel would come up next and in my mind you can’t get a better bagel than in Montreal Quebec.
I am not sure why the French are so good at breads, but bagels, baguettes, and pizza are all top staples of French culture. Maybe it’s the French passion! When you look at the history of the bagel especially the Quebec and New York City varieties you will see that they were actually brought to the regions by Jewish Immigrants in the 20th century. Bagels have been synonymous with Montreal and there are even certain shops that are a must visit for the perfect bagel. Sure we get bagels here in Ontario of similar variety but they just don’t seem the same. When I return home and have a bagel from Quebec it just seems to melt in my mouth. Get one directly from the bakery while they are still warm and fresh and you have an extended treat that will live on in your mind forever.
So next time you are embarking on that road trip and heading through the Province of Quebec stop at a bagel show and treat yourself to one of the best culinary sensations of Quebec. If you would like to learn more about the history of the bagel in Quebec and even where to go and get the best ones in Montreal click on this link. I know you will enjoy it.
About the Author
Carmen Outridge is a Quebec born translation expert located in Ontario Canada. Outridge Translation offers translation services from English to French for the Quebec market. You can learn more about Outridge Translation Services at www.outridgetranslation.com
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