Poutine

Poutine is a beloved Canadian dish that brings comfort food to a whole new level.

Originating from Quebec, this hearty dish features a magnificent combination of crispy French fries topped with cheese curds and smothered in rich brown gravy.

Perfect for cozy nights in or impressing friends at parties, poutine is surprisingly easy to make at home.

With just a few simple ingredients, you can create the perfect plate of indulgence that ensures every bite is filled with flavor.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Whether you’re a fan of classic French fries or a cheese lover, poutine hits all the right notes.

This dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience.

The contrast between the hot, crispy fries and the creamy cheese curds, combined with the savory gravy, makes every bite a delight.

Plus, making your own poutine allows you to customize it to your taste.

This is comfort food at its finest—satisfying, delicious, and oh-so-satisfying.

If you’ve never tried poutine before, you are in for a treat, and if you’re already a fan, then making it at home is about to change your life.

Ingredients

• 1 batch homemade French fries (click for recipe)
• 1 batch homemade brown beef gravy (click for recipe) or use a gravy packet
• 8 oz cheese curds at room temperature

How To Make Poutine

Step 1: Prepare the French Fries

Start by making your homemade French fries.

Begin by selecting the right potatoes—Russet potatoes work beautifully due to their high starch content, which yields a crispy exterior and a fluffy interior when fried.

Peel and cut the potatoes into even strips for consistent cooking.

Once cut, soak the fries in cold water for at least an hour to remove excess starch, then drain and dry them thoroughly with paper towels.

Step 2: Fry the Potatoes

For the frying process, you can use a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pot.

Fill it with enough oil to submerge the fries and heat it to 350°F (175°C).

Carefully add the fries in batches, avoiding overcrowding.

Fry them until golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.

Remove them from the oil and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.

Season with salt while they are still hot.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

If making homemade brown beef gravy, follow your favorite recipe, or for an easier option, prepare a packet of gravy according to the instructions on the package.

Whichever method you choose, ensure the gravy is hot and ready to pour over your fries when you assemble the dish.

Step 4: Assemble the Poutine

On a large plate or in a shallow bowl, begin layering your components.

Start with a generous portion of crispy French fries.

Next, sprinkle the cheese curds evenly over the fries, ensuring the warm fries melt the curds slightly, and then drizzle an ample amount of hot beef gravy over the top.

The heat of the fries and gravy will make the cheese curds gooey and delicious.

Expert Tips

• Use fresh cheese curds for the best flavor and texture. They should be squeaky when bitten into!
• For the crispiest fries, double fry them! Fry once until pale, remove, let them sit for a few minutes, and fry again until golden.
• If you’re short on time, opt for a store-bought gravy that you know you love. It can save time without sacrificing flavor.
• Experiment with different seasonings on your fries, such as garlic powder, paprika, or even Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Variations and Customizations

• For vegetarian poutine, substitute the beef gravy for mushroom gravy; this adds a lovely depth of flavor.
• Try adding toppings like sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or even crispy bacon for an extra layer of deliciousness.
• For a spicy twist, sprinkle some hot sauce or add jalapeños to your poutine.
• Make it a loaded poutine by adding pulled beef or shredded chicken on top of the fries before the gravy and cheese curds.

How to Store Leftovers

If you happen to have any poutine leftovers (which is rare!), store the fries, gravy, and cheese curds separately.

Place the fries in an airtight container in the fridge, and similarly, keep the gravy in a separate container.

Unfortunately, cheese curds do not typically hold up well for long periods but can last a day or two in the refrigerator if stored correctly.

To reheat, it’s best to use an oven to get the fries crispy again.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), spread the fries on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes or until they’re crispy again.

Warm the gravy in a saucepan over medium heat, and then assemble your poutine anew for a tasty second round.

FAQ

Can I use frozen fries for poutine?

Yes, frozen fries can be used in a pinch! Just cook them according to the package instructions before adding the cheese curds and gravy.

While homemade fries will give a fresher taste, frozen fries are a convenient alternative.

What type of cheese curds should I use?

Fresh cheese curds are ideal for poutine.

Look for white cheddar curds or cheese curds from local dairies for the best flavor and texture.

They should be at room temperature to ensure they melt slightly when served.

Can I make this dish in advance?

While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare some components in advance.

You can make the fries and gravy ahead of time, but they are best when served immediately together.

Reheating them can cause the fries to lose their crispiness.

What is the origin of poutine?

Poutine originated in rural Quebec in the late 1950s.

Various stories claim different origins, but the dish typically features fries, gravy, and cheese curds.

It has since become a staple in Canadian cuisine, loved by many across North America and beyond.

Conclusion

Poutine is more than just a dish; it’s an experience that captures the essence of indulgent comfort food.

With the crispy French fries, melty cheese curds, and rich gravy all coming together in perfect harmony, each bite is simply heavenly.

Making your own poutine at home gives you the flexibility to customize it to your taste, making it perfect for any occasion.

So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and prepare to enjoy a delightful plate of homemade poutine that is sure to impress family and friends alike!