Jigg's dinner

Jiggs' Dinner is a traditional meal commonly prepared and eaten on Sundays in many regions across Newfoundland and Labrador, a province in Canada. The dish is named after the comic strip character Jiggs, from the popular American comic strip Bringing Up Father, who had a strong affinity for corned beef and cabbage.

History

The origins of Jiggs' Dinner can be traced back to the early settlers of Newfoundland and Labrador, who relied on preserved foods during the long winter months. The meal is a reflection of the province's British and Irish heritage, with its main components being similar to the boiled dinners common in those countries.

Components

The main components of a traditional Jiggs' Dinner include salt beef, cabbage, potatoes, carrots, and turnips. These ingredients are all boiled together in a single pot, with the salt beef being soaked overnight to remove excess salt.

In addition to these main components, a variety of other ingredients may also be included depending on personal preference and regional variations. These can include pease pudding, a dish made from yellow split peas; doughboys, which are dumplings made from flour; and figgy duff, a type of raisin pudding.

Preparation

The preparation of Jiggs' Dinner involves boiling the salt beef in a large pot of water. The vegetables are then added to the pot and cooked until tender. If pease pudding is being included, the split peas are typically tied in a cloth bag and boiled in the same pot. Doughboys and figgy duff are also cooked in the pot, with the doughboys being dropped in as dumplings and the figgy duff being steamed in a cloth bag.

Cultural Significance

Jiggs' Dinner holds a significant place in the culture of Newfoundland and Labrador. It is often served at large family gatherings, community events, and during holiday celebrations. The meal is also commonly associated with Jiggs and Maggie, the main characters from the Bringing Up Father comic strip, who are often depicted enjoying a hearty boiled dinner.