With the holiday season in full swing, Canadians are turning to Google to solve their dinner dilemmas.
Food experts at budget meal-box company, Chefs Plate, are here to answer the top trending holiday cooking questions, ensuring home cooks feel confident in the kitchen this festive season.
“Cooking for the holidays can be daunting, especially with packed schedules and tighter budgets,” says a spokesperson from Chefs Plate. “We’ve noticed a surge in searches for traditional and seasonal recipes, and we’re excited to offer practical advice and inspiration to make the season as stress-free as possible.”
From mastering a slow-cooker roast beef to cooking shrimp straight from the freezer, here’s how Chefs Plate is helping Canadians nail the most-searched holiday recipes of 2024:
How to cook melt-in-your-mouth roast beef in a slow cooker (+200% searches)
Transform a budget-friendly roast into a holiday showstopper. Sear the beef for added flavour, place it in a slow cooker with onions, carrots, and herbs, and cook on low for 8–10 hours. The result? Tender, juicy perfection.
How to cook a cottage roll (+100% searches)
A Canadian classic, the cottage roll (pickled pork shoulder) is a hearty holiday favourite. Simmer it in water with onions, bay leaves, and peppercorns for 2–3 hours, and serve with boiled vegetables for a nostalgic winter meal.
How to cook shrimp from frozen (+70% searches)
Save time with this simple method. Sauté frozen shrimp in olive oil with garlic and a pinch of salt for 3–5 minutes until pink and opaque. Perfect for holiday appetizers or quick pasta dishes.
How long to cook a ham in the oven (+70% searches)
Bake your ham at 325°F for 15–20 minutes per pound. For a festive touch, glaze with a mix of maple syrup, mustard, and orange juice during the final 30 minutes of cooking.
How to cook mussels (+60% searches)
Bring a taste of the coast to your table. Steam mussels in white wine with garlic and shallots for 5–7 minutes until they open. Serve with fresh bread for dipping.
How to cook bacon on the stove (+50% searches)
Achieve perfectly crispy bacon by cooking it slowly in a cold frying pan over medium heat. Drain on paper towels and serve as a side dish or in holiday recipes.
How to cook pea meal bacon (+40% searches)
Pan-fry thick slices of pea meal bacon for 3–4 minutes per side until golden. Serve as part of a traditional Canadian breakfast or on a holiday brunch platter.
As Canadians prepare to gather with family and friends, Chefs Plate is proud to support home cooks with easy, budget-conscious solutions for creating delicious holiday meals.
