All about the cranberries

Quebec, the world's second largest producer and the leading producer of organic cranberries, cultivates this iconic little red fruit thanks to a favorable climate and a unique flooding harvest method, offering a wide variety of festive products. 

Cranberry production in Quebec 

Quebec occupies a remarkable position in this industry with 80 producers located mainly in the Centre-du-Quebec and Mauricie regions. The province ranks second in the world for total harvest volume, just behind the state of Wisconsin. This growing industry benefits from Quebec's particularly favorable climate, characterized by cold winters and temperate summers. Quebec even holds the title of world leader in organic cranberry production!

The harvesting process follows a well-established specialized method. Between late September and October, producers transform their fields into temporary ponds by flooding them completely. Thousands of small red berries then rise to the surface, creating a distinctive landscape. It is the flooding of the plants that causes the cranberries to rise to the surface due to their natural air pockets. Growers can then harvest the berries efficiently, just in time for our holiday meals!

Grandma's classic cranberry sauce 

“When you come from somewhere else, cranberry is an unfamiliar word. In Paris, for example, in a chic restaurant-bar on the Champs-Élysées, I asked for cranberry juice and the waiter, very confidently, replied, “We don't have that here, sir.” Oh dear! When I arrived in Quebec, my first encounter with this delicious little berry was at Toqué! Normand Laprise showcased it in both savory and sweet dishes. After asking the waiter what they were (ah, cranberries), I enriched my vocabulary and my culinary tastes. A wonderful discovery. Today, cranberries are in my kitchen: compote, sauce, crumble, savory dishes, and juice. Pure joy!" - Jean-Philippe Tastet, food critic