Support Food Sovereignty for National Indigenous History Month
By Avneet Takhar
Reconciliation for Indigenous peoples is something of a fairly new concept in Canada, for the suffering the communities have endured and racism that still affects those who rightfully own the lands we live on.
There’s a long way to go until trust and unity can go hand in hand after the arduous history, but honouring the food they make is one of the ways we can support their heritage and cultural traditions.
Here’s a list of places we recommend:
Salmon n’ Bannock
A firm favourite with the locals, this cozy South Granville spot is First Nations-owned and operated. Co-founder, Inez Cook of the Nuxalk Nation (who also happens to be a children’s author!) provides a family-style gathering nook that welcomes all. And there’s no question about who’s got game with the meaty menu she offers!
I tried the Game Sampler, a more exciting version of the usual charcuterie, featuring venison pâté, bison slices and thin, crunchy pieces of bannock accompanied with arugula and cheese slices.
Of course I had to try their Signature Bannock with butter and jam for a happy ending. And indeed it was! Super yummy.
Take a reflective read of Cook’s book, Sixties Scoop and drop in for a bite.
1128 W Broadway, Vancouver
Transit: The number 9 bus will take you to the W Broadway @ Spruce St stop, a 2 minute walk away.
Sriracha Revolver
There’s just something about Jordan’s sauces. Hand-crafted small batches that come in sizes 130 ml and 500 ml (trust me, you’ll want the bigger bottle), they are good enough to Put. On. Everything.
I’m a Habenero hot sauce girl myself, which works out rather well since part of the proceeds go towards Indigenous organizations with each batch, but I’m also a fan of the classic Chili Garlic and zingy Jalapeño Ginger too.
For those with milder tastes, go for the Clean Mango!
Order Sriracha Revolver online, or at these retailers.
Bangin’ Bannock
The name itself is spectacular, and the fact that it’s also women-owned and eco-friendly is a bonus! Kelsey and Destiny provide two classic Bannock dry mix bags for sweet and savoury options: OG Mix which is for Indigenous Frybread and the Cinnamon Snag Bag, designed to make bannock donuts!
And if you’re not a self-confessed chef, never fear as they have a recipes section on their website.
You can purchase them online, or find them in stores in New Westminster, East and North Vancouver.
Raven Rising
Chef Tammy Maki is from White Bear First Nation in Saskatchewan, with a background as an Executive Pastry Chef. Having branched into the indulgent world of chocolate using ethically sourced and sustainable methods, she gives a portion of the proceeds to Residential School and 60’s Scoop organizations.
Delightful chocolate art in the form of Truffle Sets, and beautifully designed slabs including the Peacock Set and Ruby Bars are available to be shipped to locations in Canada.
And with Father’s Day around the corner, the Handy Dad chocolate bar is a sure-fire hit to put a smile on his face. We predict a sell-out, so order before they’re gone!
Wabanakim Maple
Honestly, the sophisticated packaging is enough to want a bottle of this Canadian staple! FYI, for generations First Nations peoples have harvested savoury sap from maple trees; known for its healing and nourishing properties.
Available in 100ml, 200ml and 375ml quantities there’s a selection of classics such as Traditional Maple Syrup, along with Barrel Aged Whiskey Maple Syrup which pairs well with ice cream and corn bread and the buttery Barrel Aged Bourbon Maple Syrup, great with meats, scallops and a drop in your morning coffee.
To sweeten the deal, they even offer 10% off your first purchase!
Buy online, or from retailers including Spirit Bear in Port Coquitlam.
Louis Pasture Pork Crisps
These Paleo, Ketogenic & Preservative-Free Pork Crisps created on the Primal Sisters’ (Jennifer and Tamara) family farm are seriously divine. With 6 punchy flavours: the original Plain, Salt and Vinegar, Dilly, Gingey, Barbeque, Jalapeño Cheddar and White Cheddar there’s something for everyone.
We recommend stocking up and getting the 12-case pack to get free shipping within Canada!
Purchase online or pick up in-store within locations around West Vancouver, Burnaby and Surrey.
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