Touton is a traditional Newfoundland and Labrador dish, often enjoyed as a breakfast or snack. It consists of pan-fried dough, sometimes topped with molasses or syrup, offering a sweet and savory flavor.
Touton is a beloved, traditional dish from Newfoundland, Canada. This simple yet delicious food is essentially a fried dough, often served with sweet or savory toppings. It’s typically enjoyed for breakfast or as a snack, making it a comforting and nostalgic dish for many Newfoundlanders. The dough is made from a basic combination of flour, sugar, salt, and yeast, which is then fried until golden brown and crispy on the outside, soft and warm on the inside.
The most common way to serve toutons is by drizzling them with molasses or syrup, which enhances their rich, slightly sweet flavor. In some variations, toutons are served with butter, creating a rich and indulgent treat that’s perfect with a cup of tea or coffee. For those looking for a savory twist, toutons can also be paired with bacon or other meats, though the sweet versions are by far the most popular.
This dish has deep roots in Newfoundland’s history and was originally made by the island’s early settlers using simple, readily available ingredients. It became an important part of the local diet, especially in rural areas where hearty, easy-to-make meals were essential. Toutons are often made in a pan on the stove, making them an accessible and quick option for a satisfying breakfast or afternoon snack.
Toutons can be enjoyed fresh from the pan or reheated later, making them a versatile dish for any time of day. Whether as a sweet indulgence or paired with savory accompaniments, toutons offer a comforting taste of Newfoundland’s culinary traditions.
Ingredients
- 1 cup all-purpose flour plus extra for dusting
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 2/3 cup water warm
- 2 tablespoons butter or margarine for frying
- to taste molasses or syrup, for serving
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, and baking powder.
- Gradually add warm water to the dry ingredients, stirring until a dough forms. If the dough is too sticky, add more flour as needed.
- Turn the dough onto a floured surface and knead it lightly until smooth, for about 1-2 minutes.
- Divide the dough into small, flat rounds, about the size of a palm.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Fry each dough round until golden brown on both sides, about 3-4 minutes per side.
- Serve hot, topped with molasses or syrup as desired.
Nutrition
