Alberta Fun Facts
The capital of Alberta
Edmonton
Why does Alberta Beef taste different?
The use of barley and rye in cattle feed also contributes to the rich taste, even fat distribution, and consistent quality of Alberta beef. The high-quality feed results in marbled meat with a more intense beef flavor. Alberta beef is known for its consistency and is sought after by chefs and consumers alike
What is a chuckwagon?
"The original food truck"
A wagon with cooking facilities providing food on a ranch, worksite, or campsite.
What is the main difference between Beef and Bison meat?
Bison is leaner than beef and may be a healthier choice if you're looking to reduce your calorie or fat intake. It has nearly 25% fewer calories than beef and is lower in total and saturated fat. Additionally, due to its lower fat content, bison has finer fat marbling, yielding softer and more tender meat.
What is the dry heat method of cooking meat and give an example?
Dry-heat cooking methods involve the circulation of hot air or direct contact to fat to transfer heat. . A dry heat cooking method that uses high temperatures to cook solid foods for a crispy brown exterior and a juicy interior.
ie: baking, broiling, grilling
How much of Alberta's land is unsuitable for agriculture purposes?
7% of land is unsuitable for agriculture purposes (lowest figure in the country)
What is a Chuck?
Cut from the chest; ideal for slow cooking and barbecuing, known for its tenderness when cooked properly.
What was the purpose of the chuckwagon?
The chuckwagon was kitchen, dining room, social center and home to cowboys moving a herd of cattle or riding in a round up.
What is Bannock?
"Fried Bread" The early Scottish Fur traders taught aboriginal peoples how to make bannock. Traditional survival bread enjoyed across the country. When food was scarce and rations were low, this bread could be made with almost anything.
What is the moist heat method of cooking meat and give an example.
“Good for less tender cuts- heat and steam break down connective tissue”
ie: stewing, braising, pot roast
What is the main food Alberta known for?
Beef and chuck wagon cuisine (generous portions of stew or BBQ, baked beans, wild rice and fresh bread.)
What is a Shank?
Cut from the leg; tough and full of connective tissue, best suited for soups and stews.
What were some traditional foods served on the Chuckwagon?
Foods that were easy to prepare and preserve-Flap jacks and sausages, biscuits, beans and rice, chili, salted meats, canned goods, coffee
Name 5 foods grown and raised in Alberta.
Beef, bison, canola, honey, Red Fife Wheat, root vegetables and saskatoon berries, canola, barley, Mustard, Pulses,
Define Broiling and give an example of the best type of meat to broil
- Definition: Cooking meat under direct heat from above.
- Example: Broiling steak in the oven to achieve a nice crust while keeping the inside juicy.
The best selling North American Cereal is made from whole grain oats grown in Alberta
Cherrios
Name one factor influencing the tenderness of meat
Period of aging- enzymes in meat break down connective tissue
Age of animal- the younger the animal = more tender
Location of the cut- more exercise=more connective tissue (stronger and tougher))
Why were the cooks the most important person to the cowboys?
- cooked all meals rain or shine
- helped guide the direction of the drive by tracking the North star- made sure chuckwagon was turned in right direction
- serviced the chuckwagon and made sure it was in working order
- was seen as the camp "counsellor" often would counsel the cowboys after a long day.
Which 3 popular root vegetables grow well in Alberta and why?
Beets, carrots, potatoes- because of the colder climate, there are fewer pests in the soil
Define Sautéing and give an example of best type meat to saute
- Definition: Cooking meat quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over high heat.
- Example: Sautéing strips of beef for stir-fry dishes.
What are the two products that Alberta exports that are considered "liquid gold"
Canola and honey
Name three things to consider when buying meat from the store.
What is the nickname for the camp cook?
"Cookie"
What is pemmican?
Pemmican is a unique food product often made by Indigenous peoples made from three primary ingredients: dried meat, dried berries, and rendered fat.
Describe stewing and give an example of a type of meat that benefits from this cooking method
- Definition: Cooking small pieces of meat slowly in liquid over low heat.
- Example: Making a beef stew with carrots and potatoes.