The Northwest Territories in Canada's far north offer a unique culinary offering that is shaped by the wilderness, the traditions of the indigenous people and the countless local ingredients.
The indigenous communities of the Northwest Territories play an important role in shaping the culinary offerings. Traditional dishes focus on ingredients such as game meat (caribou, musk ox, bison), fish (trout, sea char), wild berries (blueberries, cloudberries, cranberries and crow berries) and collected plants. The remote location of the Northwest Territories offers unique dining experiences with arctic delights. These include char caviar, arctic prawns and arctic herbs. These delicacies offer an unmistakable taste of the northern region and are often made into gourmet dishes in upscale restaurants.
Northwest Territories are committed to sustainable hunting and fishing practices. The food industry is focused on promoting sustainable crops and supporting local hunters and fishermen who play an important role in feeding the indigenous community.
Traditionally, indigenous communities in the Northwest Territories live off what the land and the waters surrounding them offer. A common type of fish is the char, a migratory fish that is native to both fresh water and seawater. In our Taste of Canada recipe booklet, you'll find the matching recipe: Baked char in lemon-thyme crust. We hope you enjoy cooking it. Bon appétit!