10 Recipes to Celebrate Saint-Jean-Baptiste

Saint Jean-Baptiste, celebrated on June 24th, is Quebec's national holiday. It is a day to celebrate Quebec pride, French-Canadian culture, and local traditions. It is also a time for families, friends, and neighbors to gather, often around a shared outdoor meal. Fireworks, shows, music, and festive food are an integral part of this day. Here are 10 perfect recipes to mark the occasion with flavors from here.

1. Classic Homemade Poutine
   It's impossible to have a Quebec meal without poutine. For a homemade version, all you need are crispy fries, fresh grated cheese, and brown gravy. A dish that pleases everyone and embodies the culinary spirit of Quebec.
2. Individual Pork and Veal Tourtière
   Although associated with Christmas, tourtière is also suitable for summer celebrations when served in a mini format. Perfect to take for a picnic or outdoor meal, it reminds us of the family roots of Quebec.
3. Quebec-Style Steam Whistle Hot Dogs
   The famous "steamé", soft bread, well-cooked sausage, yellow mustard, cabbage and onions. Simple, effective, and always appreciated, especially when entertaining a group.
4. Old Fashioned Macaroni Salad
   A classic of any good Quebec buffet. With pasta, mayonnaise, celery, shredded carrots and sweet pickles. Refreshing and comforting.
5. Maple and Mustard Marinated Pork Skewers
   Marinated in a mixture of maple syrup, Dijon mustard and garlic, these skewers cook quickly on the grill and release a typically Quebec scent.
6. Pork Chops with Apples and Maple Syrup
   Another typical match from the region. Apples and maple syrup caramelize the pork chops while keeping them tender. Served with mashed potatoes, it's a true delight.
7. Grilled Fresh Trout with Fine Herbs
   Fresh water fish is a local treasure. A fresh trout, simply grilled with lemon, thyme and a little butter, highlights the products of Quebec.
8. Grilled Corn on the Cob with Garlic Butter
   In season, corn is king. Grilled on the BBQ, then brushed with garlic-scented butter and herbs, it's an accompaniment that smells like a Quebec summer.
9. Traditional Sugar Pie
   Dense, sweet, creamy, sugar pie is an icon. Served cold or slightly warm, it concludes the meal beautifully with a typically Quebec flavor.
10. Homemade Beaver Tail
    This fried dough pastry in an oval shape, filled with sugar, cinnamon or cream cheese spread, is a dessert for festive occasions. Easy to make at home, it evokes the kiosks of summer Quebec events.

Saint Jean-Baptiste is more than just a public holiday, it's a moment to reconnect with our roots, our culture and our taste for sharing. These recipes are a delicious way to highlight our love for our corner of the country. Whether around a BBQ, on a checkered tablecloth or as a family on the balcony, what matters is celebrating together.

Why is Saint Jean-Baptiste celebrated on June 24th?

June 24th corresponds to the traditional date of birth of Saint John the Baptist, six months before that of Jesus, celebrated at Christmas.

Is June 24th a public holiday in Canada?

No, it is not a public holiday across Canada, but it is an official public holiday in Quebec, recognized as the national holiday.

What is the symbol of Saint Jean-Baptiste?

The symbol associated with Saint John the Baptist is often the lamb, in reference to his role as a forerunner of Jesus. In Quebec, the white lily is also an emblem of the national holiday.

Is Saint Jean-Baptiste a national holiday in Quebec?

Yes, since 1977, Saint John the Baptist has been Quebec's national holiday, celebrated every year with cultural events, fireworks and festivities throughout the province.

What happened on June 24th in history?

Historically, the date of June 24th has been associated with various pagan summer solstice celebrations. It was later Christianized in honor of Saint John the Baptist. In Quebec, it became a patriotic festival in the 19th century.

What is the story of Saint Jean-Baptiste?

Saint John the Baptist is a biblical prophet, known for baptizing Jesus Christ. He preached repentance and lived as an ascetic in the desert. He is considered the last prophet before Jesus.

Where did Saint Jean-Baptiste live?

He lived in the Judaean Desert, near the Jordan River, where he baptized believers.

Why is John Baptist called John Baptist?

The name John Baptist is given in honor of the prophet who baptized Jesus. John is his name, and Baptist refers to his role in baptism.

Wishing a happy Saint Jean-Baptiste to all those who celebrate Quebec culture.