As the summer season draws to a close, comfort food is back on the menu, and one traditional dish is making a significant comeback. According to new research by food box company, Chefs Plate, data reveals a staggering 2,000% increase in searches for “hodge podge recipe” in Canada over the past month.
Hodge Podge, a traditional East Coast dish, is a hearty vegetable stew that has long been a staple in Nova Scotian households. Typically made with fresh, in-season vegetables like potatoes, carrots, beans, and peas, and often cooked in a creamy broth, this dish is a perfect embodiment of farm-to-table eating.
As Canadians prepare for the cooler months, it’s clear that the demand for nostalgic and warming dishes is on the rise.
How to create the perfect Hodge Podge
For those eager to try their hand at making Hodge Podge, experts at Chefs Plate recommend starting with the freshest produce available. The dish traditionally includes:
- New potatoes – small, tender potatoes that hold their shape well
- Carrots and turnips – for sweetness and heartiness
- Green and yellow beans – offering a tender crunch
- Fresh peas – to add a pop of sweetness and texture
- These vegetables are gently simmered in a light cream or milk-based broth, seasoned with butter, salt, and pepper. Some recipes suggest adding a splash of vinegar or a pinch of sugar to enhance the flavours, while others may incorporate a bit of bacon or ham for extra richness.
A spokesperson for Chefs Plate said: “With its combination of comfort, nutrition, and affordability, Hodge Podge is set to become a staple in Canadian kitchens this fall. Whether you’re looking to reconnect with your roots or simply seeking a new way to enjoy the season’s bounty, this traditional dish offers the perfect solution.
“Alongside Hodge Podge, Canadians are also turning to other budget-friendly comfort foods to prepare for the fall. These recipes, much like Hodge Podge, make use of seasonal ingredients and are perfect for feeding the whole family on a budget.”
Recipes to try
- Italian Ciambotta Stew with White Beans and Garlic Ciabatta. Ciambotta, a traditional southern Italian vegetable stew, will delight your senses and soothe your soul. Filled with fresh veggies, a rich tomato broth and fresh basil, this dish will transport you to Italy’s beautiful coast.
- Spanish Chorizo, Bean, and Potato Stew with Garlicky Sour Cream. This chunky stew is loaded with bold Spanish flavours. Chorizo sausage is simmered in a rich, smoky tomato broth with black beans and potatoes, then topped with garlicky sour cream.
- Tunisian-Style Chickpea Stew with Jewelled Couscous. This warming, Tunisian-inspired chickpea stew features sautéed onions, a dash of ground cumin, garlic, and vibrant harissa spices. Served on top of a bed of couscous, jewelled with dried cranberries, and garnished with toasted almonds, comfort is in your kitchen tonight.
- Tex-Mex Spiced Bean Stew with Rice, Cheese, and Sour Cream. Smoky and rich, this steaming black bean stew doles out serious Tex-Mex flavour into your bowl. Sweet potatoes and creamy beans simmer with Mexican-style spices and peppers, and don’t forget the sour cream!
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