Our cookbook this week explores Acadian cuisine so its fitting that we look at Jan Feduck’s Dining Out With History: At Atlantic Canada’s Historic Sites…an irresistible fusion of travel, culture, and cuisine. This book is more than just a guide—it’s a celebration of the communities and food traditions that shaped Atlantic Canada, all delivered with warmth and a storyteller’s flair.
Feduck takes readers on a road trip through 20 historic sites across Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland and Labrador. Each stop is more than a place—it’s a moment in time, brought to life through immersive storytelling and personal anecdotes. Whether it’s spearing eels in an ancient Mi’kmaq tradition at Eskasoni Cultural Journeys or preparing “Éclade de Moules” beside a French feast at Port-Royal, every chapter captures the spirit of the people who lived, cooked, and thrived in these places.
But what truly elevates the book is how Feduck uses food to deepen historical understanding. From the humble Four Cents Bread to the richly symbolic Order of Good Cheer, these recipes aren’t just culinary curiosities—they’re stories in themselves. Feduck’s blend of vivid narrative, hands-on experiences, and period recipes transforms the past into something tangible and delicious. Chives will be overtaking your garden soon so snatch up the blossoms and make Chive Blossom Vinegar found in our Recipe section.
The book also shines in its inclusivity—highlighting Mi’kmaq, Acadian, African, and European voices—painting a fuller, richer picture of Atlantic Canada’s diverse heritage. It’s an invitation to slow down, savor, and connect with history one bite at a time. Going on a road trip through the Maritimes? Grab a copy of this book at https://www.fitzhenry.ca/Detail/1554556279 or win this historical resource in our Giveaway section.
Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or armchair traveler, Dining Out With History offers a meaningful, mouth-watering experience. Settle in at the table—and prepare to dine with the past.
Contents and images used with permission by Fitzhenry & Whiteside Limited. https://www.fitzhenry.ca/Detail/1554556279
