Peameal Bacon Sandwich
Toronto, Canada
A peameal bacon sandwich uses thick slices of wet-cured pork loin rolled in cornmeal and grilled before being served on a soft bun. The meat is savory and lean, with the cornmeal adding a lightly crisp surface; mustard or other toppings may provide acidity.
Why locals eat it
The sandwich is strongly associated with Toronto and St. Lawrence Market, but the underlying peameal bacon tradition belongs to Ontario’s broader pork-curing history. Its importance is local and practical: a hot, filling market meal that has become a city symbol without needing elaborate garnish.
Local tip
Ask whether the slices are grilled to order and start with mustard. The cornmeal coating is the defining difference from ordinary bacon, and a market portion can be more filling than it looks.
Typically made with
Peameal bacon, Kaiser roll, Mustard. Recipes vary — always check with the vendor if you have allergies.