Poutine

Poutine

Serves 4 564 kcal per serving Prep 20 min Cook 40 min

Ingredients

  • Dash Vegetable Oil
  • 1 Can Beef Gravy
  • 5 thin cut Potatoes
  • 2 cups Cheese Curds

Instructions

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy deep pan to about 185°C / 365°F.
  2. Warm the beef gravy gently in a saucepan or microwave until hot, without boiling.
  3. Carefully add the sliced potatoes to the hot oil and fry until lightly golden, maintaining an even oil temperature throughout.
  4. Lift the fries out with a slotted spoon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate.
  5. Arrange the hot fries on a serving dish and scatter the cheese curds evenly over the top.
  6. Spoon the hot gravy over the fries and cheese and serve immediately.

Tips

  • The gravy must be piping hot to slightly melt the cheese curds without completely dissolving them.
  • Double-fry the potatoes—once at 160°C to cook the inside and again at 190°C for a super-crispy exterior.
  • Only use fresh cheese curds that ‘squeak’ when you bite them for the most authentic experience.

Variations

  • Breakfast Poutine: Top with a fried egg and crumbled bacon.
  • Italian Poutine: Replace the brown gravy with a rich bolognese or marinara sauce.

Storage

Poutine should be eaten immediately. Once the gravy is added, the fries will become soggy within minutes. Components can be kept separately for 2 days.

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve in a shallow bowl or cardboard container for that classic snack-shack feel.
  • Pair with a local craft ale or a cold spruce beer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of curds?

You can, but it won’t be authentic poutine. Curds provide a unique texture that doesn’t melt away like shredded cheese.

What kind of gravy is best?

Traditionally, poutine uses a ‘velouté’ style gravy made from a mix of chicken and beef stock.

Why do the cheese curds squeak?

The squeak comes from the air trapped in the protein structure of very fresh cheese; as it ages, the structure breaks down and the squeak disappears.

instructions_source: editorial-classic