A roundup of favourites for International Women’s Day!
Despite it having been celebrated in many countries around the world since the early 1900s, I was naively unaware of International Women’s Day when I was growing up – I think Canada was a little late to this party. Created as a day intended to support and recognize women’s achievements, the day has become much more widely acknowledged in my beloved country than it was a few decades ago. Bolstered by its official recognition by the United Nations in 1977, International Women’s Day (March 8) continues to serve as a powerful rallying point for women in developed and developing countries alike. The Constantly Cooking team is proud to offer this first ever International Women’s Day showcase to not only highlight some delicious products we love, but also to celebrate the tenacity of some innovative Canadian female food entrepreneurs.
Nice Cans tinned seafood
Chef Charlotte Langley has an extensive culinary legacy in Ottawa and those who’ve enjoyed any of her amazing creations know she gives her all to every project. Her latest, the just-launched Nice Cans, delivers delicious, sustainable seafood and has been certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), for which she serves as Chef Ambassador for Canada. As Charlotte says, “we invite you to embrace life’s pleasures with simple, honest, and delicious bites that leave the drama where it belongs—inside the can.” To learn more or find out about stockists, contact Charlotte at langleyfoods.ca.
Oat-Eh pancake mix
For one of the most tasty, satisfying breakfasts ever, look no further than Oat-Eh pancake and waffle mix. Created by Ottawa native Anna Harman – an engineer, climate change consultant and sustainability leader – the wholesome mix embodies her passion for bringing people together through delicious, healthy food. Made with just five natural ingredients including gluten-free-friendly Canadian oats, the mix is a nutritious and convenient way to start your day (or to enjoy breakfast for dinner). Order online for Ottawa and Toronto deliveries at oateh.com.
Spyce Girlz seasoning blends
Imagine starting your own business at just 13 years of age, then nurturing it, one sale at a time, at farmers’ markets, popup and small retail stockists, all while going to high school. That’s the backstory of award-winning young entrepreneur, Lily Bond, whose Spyce Girlz seasoning blends can now be found on the shelves of numerous small shops as well as major retailers including Farm Boy locations across Ontario. The product line has grown to include 11 versatile, all-natural blends that are perfect for adding a big pop of flavour to almost any meal. Learn more or order online at spycegirlz.com.
Top Shelf Preserves
Sara Pishva decided to take a deep dive into the world of preserving in 2013. Today, she continues to leverage her Maritime roots to create impossibly delicious jams, jellies, pickles, chutneys and more in her Centretown, Ottawa shop. From supplying restaurants to participating in farmers’ markets and keeping dozens of Ontario shops stocked, her kitchen is a busy one, even more so given her penchant for coming up with new flavour combinations and switching things up seasonally. In addition to her storefront and the Ottawa Farmers’ Market, you can shop online at topshelfpreserves.ca.
Alicja Confections
She started her business in 2015 as a creative outlet and since then, Alicja Buchowicz has made a name for herself as a true innovator. As her website attests, “We use classic techniques of chocolate making, but … every chocolate is a new, weird, interesting, funky, delicious flavour you won’t normally find anywhere else.” Her decadent bonbons are stellar, but our favourites are her unique handmade ‘postcard’ chocolate bars that can actually be sent in the mail. Whether you’re a milk, white or dark chocolate fan, there’s lots to love here. To purchase, shop online at alicjaconfections.com or visit her Westboro, Ottawa store.
SuzyQ Doughnuts
Susan Hamer’s trajectory as our city’s beloved doughnut queen has been a steady rise built on hard work and fantastic flavour combinations. Founded in 2012, SuzyQ doughnuts now offers a rotating range of products at their three shops, including vegan options that don’t compromise one bit on taste or texture. From decadent glazes to toppings including sprinkles, bacon, cinnamon toast crunch cereal and so much more, every bite is a delight. Order online or find out about hours and locations at suzyq.ca.
Constantly Cooking with Paula Roy 