
Jiggs Dinner
Jiggs Dinner is a classic Canadian dish that holds a distinguished place in traditional cooking. Celebrated for its wholesome ingredients and time-honored preparation, this dish brings authentic regional character to the home kitchen.
Carefully prepared featuring Beef, Yellow Split Peas, Cabbage, Carrots, Turnips, Potatoes and Butter, the ingredients are simmered and seasoned to achieve a satisfying depth of flavor. The cooking process allows natural aromas to develop, ensuring each portion is both hearty and flavorful.
Serve hot alongside fresh bread, steamed grains, or a crisp seasonal salad for a well-rounded dining experience.
If you enjoy authentic Canadian cooking, be sure to also explore our recipe for Classic Tourtière.
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Ingredients
- Beef2 Lbs
- Yellow Split Peas1 cup
- Cabbage1 head
- Carrots6
- Turnips1 large
- Potatoes8
- Butter3 tablespoons
- Black PepperTo taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
13 stepsInteractive Cook Mode: Click any step or circle to check it off as you cook.
The night before, break salt beef into big chunks and soak in water overnight, at least 8-10 hours.
Put split peas into a bowl and cover with water to soak overnight.
Drain the salt beef and place it into a large stockpot.
Cover with fresh water, at least 6-7 litres.
Place the split peas into a pease pudding canvas bag or triple layer of cheesecloth and tie, making sure to leave room for peas to expand inside the bag.
Put the bag inside the pot, tying the strings to the outside handle so it doesn't stick to the bottom of the pot with the salt beef.
Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 2 hours.
Remove the peas pudding bag and empty contents into a bowl, mixing with butter and pepper for taste.
Set aside.
Add your cabbage to the pot and boil for 20 more minutes.
Then add turnip, carrots and potatoes then boil for 20 more, or until vegetables are tender.
Remove salt beef and vegetables from the pot and put them on a platter.
Use the cooking liquid in two ways; as a pot liquor which some people like to drink or reduce it to make a jus or gravy to pour over the meal.
👨🍳 Chef's Culinary Notes
Cultural Heritage
Jiggs Dinner carries a rich culinary tradition rooted in regional home cooking. Developed over generations, the recipe highlights wholesome local ingredients prepared with time-honored kitchen techniques.
Dietary Substitutions
For a richer sauce, replace a portion of the water with homemade bone broth, vegetable stock, or a splash of dry wine or red wine vinegar to cut through richness.
Chef Technique Tips
Take the time to thoroughly sear and brown beef in batches before adding the braising liquid. The caramelized fond deposited on the bottom of the pot dissolves into the stew, providing depth and body that cannot be rushed.
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