You’re wondering how Chinese fondue found its way into the land of poutine and sugar shacks? In this article, we invite you to delve into the deliciously interesting depths of fondue and its history in Quebec. Hold on to your fondue fork and get ready for a gastronomic adventure full of surprises!
The Mysterious Origins of Chinese Fondue in Quebec
Fondue as we know it today didn’t appear on our tables overnight (although we would have liked that!). Rather, it all began with the fondue bourguignonne of our French cousins, the first to land in Quebec. Then, in the middle of the 20th century, a Quebec City chef concocted the first local fondue recipe. Combining what he knew of fondue bourguignonne and traditional Chinese fondue — commonly known as “hot pot” — he concocted a broth with homegrown flavours.
Since Quebecers love to linger around the table and share a good meal with family and friends (and since we all find it hard to say no to good food), Chinese fondue was an instant hit. Ever attentive to the needs of food lovers, Lassonde launched the Canton brand to fill the gap in easy-to-find and easy-to-cook ingredients for a quick and delicious fondue. It’s because of the way the dish is eaten that the name “Chinese fondue” entered the vernacular, although Canton actually defined the dish in Quebec. By offering a healthier alternative to fondue bourguignonne (which requires frying in oil), backed by an effective marketing campaign, Canton broth quickly became a success in Quebec. And it’s still going strong today!
Advertising played a key role in making the product known, seducing consumers and generating buzz. The strategy first targeted butchers, who saw their meat sales increase as customers discovered Canton’s Original broth. Then, new flavours of fondue sauces and broths were added to the product line, confirming just how deeply rooted this tradition had become. For decades, our brand has brought people together around the table, and continues to innovate by offering great-tasting products that satisfy everyone’s tastes.
In short, for decades now, Canton has been synonymous with fondue all over Quebec!
Why do Quebecers love fondue?
Now that you know how Canton fondue arrived on our tables, you may be wondering why Quebecers have become so fond of it? Well, it goes beyond meatballs and soy sauce! Canton fondue has become a real phenomenon in Quebec thanks to its friendly nature. There’s nothing like an evening in good company, fighting over that last piece of beef cooking in the broth. What’s more, fondue is an excellent way to warm up during the long winter months. There’s no need for heaters when you’ve got a pot of broth simmering in front of you.
What to do when food falls off the fondue fork?
Psst! for all those daredevils who like to challenge the fork and stick several ingredients on it, don’t forget the challenges that often come along. Give a kiss to the left, give a kiss to the right, or no eating for 5 minutes, any rule is a good rule! And if you’re short of inspiration, Canton has thought of everything with our In Hot Broth Game, featuring over 50 challenges to liven up your evenings. Click here to discover this zany game created with the help of suggestions received from the many fans of Chinese fondue.
Now you know all about the intriguing history of fondue in Quebec! So, the next time you dip your fondue fork into the broth, remember that behind every bite lies a rich history — not to mention that if you drop food, you’ll be faced with a challenge! And don’t forget: fondue, like life, is best shared with the people you love!
