My Favorite Discovery at TBEX

 The TBEX travel blogger conference always delivers great information and experiences. I always learn a lot but this year, my favorite discovery had nothing to do with blogging ( I'll list those in my next post) but symbolized contemporary Canadian culture. I was enjoying myself at the TBEX Toronto opening party when a blogger friend alerted me to the delicacy pictured above.

What is it? Well it seems, local chefs have taken classic Canadian ingredients and created something unforgettable.

I'm familiar with the tradition of pouring fresh maple syrup onto snow after it's just been tapped from the tree. Canada has a lot of snow and a lot of maple syrup but I've never seen the two come together quite like this. The chef drizzled pure maple syrup on layers of snow.

Then he speared a piece of local cheese (smoked Gouda, cheddar or blue cheese) and twirled the snow covered syrup around the cheese. I know, it sounds bizarre. I chose the Gouda and when I stuffed it into my mouth (the chef insisted it be consumed in one bite) the sensation was a heavenly blend of sweet, smoky and milky that I can only describe as Canadian nirvana. It was seriously the most memorable taste experience that I've had in awhile. I'm certain that the exact taste can never be replicated outside of Canada (besides Canadian maple syrup, you need Canadian snow!) so this quirky treat will always be a part of my TBEX and Toronto memories.