Countries with the Most Similar Food to Canada

The Country Food Similarity Index is a statistically-based attempt to quantify how similar the food in one country is relative to another. By comparing the weight of raw food ingredients used in each country, a score is assigned that reflects the degree of similarity between the respective countries. The methodology is exactly the same for each country studied. 

The Most Similar Cuisines to Canadian Food

Canada is celebrated for its diverse and multicultural culinary scene, heavily influenced by the country’s European immigrant population. As a result, the five nations with the most similar food to Canada also have a high percentage of people with European ancestry.

1. United Kingdom shares many similarities with Canadian food due to their shared history and cultural influences. The British colonized Canada and it was not completely independent until 1982. Both countries share a love for hearty comfort foods and savory pies. Dishes like steak and kidney pie, bangers and mash, and fish and chips are commonly eaten in both UK and Canada.
2. United States and Canada share many similarities when it comes to their cuisine because of their shared history, geography, and cultural influences. Both countries were colonized by Europeans and have a strong British influence on their culinary traditions. Burgers and French fries are popular in both countries. In fact, many of the same restaurants operate in both countries, such as Wendy’s, Taco Bell, and Pizza Hut.
3. Australia is another former British colony characterized by a large European immigrant population. As a result, despite being located on the opposite sides of the world, Canada and Australia have similar food. Burgers, sandwiches, and barbecues are some typical fair eaten in these countries. Due to their extensive coastlines, both nations have a love for seafood dishes.
4. Czech Republic shares some culinary traits with Canada. Both countries have a love for heartwarming dishes, rich stews, and comforting soups. Bread and potatoes are two of the main ingredients in their cuisines. In addition, both countries have a love for yogurt and cheese.
5. Germany and Canada also have similar food. Both countries adore a hearty morning meal, with eggs, bacon, and toast being commonly eaten at breakfast. However, a higher percentage of the meat eaten in Germany is pork, while beef and chicken are more popular in Canada.

Related: The 10 Most Similar Countries to Canada

The Least Similar Cuisines to Canadian Food

Unsurprisingly, the countries with the least similar food to Canada are all located in close proximity to the equator, so their climates are much hotter. This affects what type of crops are grown in these countries. These five countries are much less wealthy than Canada. Most of their people are farmers and they have few global chain restaurants.

1. Democratic Republic of Congo is a country in the middle of Africa. Cassava is the dominant staple food in the country. The most commonly eaten meat in Congo is freshwater fish, whereas chicken and beef are more popular in Canada. Furthermore, in contrast to Canada, their diet has little meat in it.
2. South Sudan is located to the northeast of Congo. It is another country where cassava is the staple food, however the country eats its share of sorghum as well. Porridge is one of the most popular dishes in the country. However, they are not completely different. Both Canada and South Sudan eat a significant amount of beef.
3. Solomon Islands is an archipelago located in the Pacific Ocean. Most of its people live near the coast, so seafood and coconuts are a huge part of the country’s diet. Unlike Canada, sweet potatoes, yams, and taro are all commonly eaten ingredients there. In addition, its people eat a variety of unique tropical fruits.
4. Chad is yet another African country on this list. Sorghum and millet are the two most commonly consumed grains there. These crops are well adapted to the Sahel’s harsh hot and arid climate. Peanuts and sesame seeds are also common parts of the country’s cuisine.
5. Cambodia has the least similar food to Canada in Asia. The Cambodian diet is heavily based in rice and cassava. Unlike in Canada, Cambodian cuisine makes use of a wide range of herbs and spices, including lemongrass, galangal, and kaffir lime leaves, to create a unique flavor profile. Furthermore, many of the country’s Buddhists avoid eating meat.

Related: The 10 Least Similar Countries to Canada

Full Food Similarity Ranking of Countries and Territories

Canada’s Most Common Food Ingredients

Protein: Chicken, Beef
Fruit: Banana, Apple
Vegetable: Carrot, Onion
Starch: Wheat, Potato

Primarily based on 2020 data from the Food and Agriculture Organization of the U.N.