Poutine is a super yummy Canadian dish from Quebec. It’s made with crispy fries, cheese curds, and hot gravy. It’s easy to make and so delicious! Follow this simple guide to cook poutine at home with basic ingredients.
What You Need
- Potatoes: 4 big russet potatoes (great for fries).
- Cheese Curds: 1 ½ cups fresh cheese curds (they squeak when you bite them).
- Gravy Ingredients: 2 cups beef or chicken broth, 2 tablespoons butter, 2 tablespoons flour.
- Oil: For frying (like vegetable oil, enough for a deep pot).
- Salt and Pepper: To make it tasty.
Tools
- Big pot or deep fryer
- Spoon with holes (to scoop fries)
- Small pot for gravy
- Knife or fry cutter
- Paper towels
Steps to Make Poutine
Step 1: Make the Fries
- Cut Potatoes: Peel the potatoes (if you want) and cut them into thin sticks, like fries.
- Soak Them: Put the cut potatoes in cold water for 1 hour. This makes them crispy.
- Dry Them: Take them out and dry them well with paper towels.
Step 2: Fry the Fries
- Heat Oil: Put oil in a big pot or fryer and heat it to medium-hot (350°F if you have a thermometer).
- Fry Once: Cook the potato sticks in small batches for 5-6 minutes until soft. Take them out and put them on paper towels.
- Fry Again: Heat the oil hotter (375°F) and fry the potatoes again for 2-3 minutes until crispy and golden. Sprinkle with salt.
Step 3: Make the Gravy
- Melt Butter: In a small pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add Flour: Stir in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Add Broth: Slowly pour in the broth while stirring so it’s smooth. Cook until it’s thick like gravy (about 5 minutes). Add salt and pepper.
Step 4: Put It Together
- Add Fries: Put hot fries on a plate.
- Add Cheese Curds: Sprinkle cheese curds on top of the fries.
- Pour Gravy: Pour hot gravy over everything. The cheese should get soft but not totally melt.
Tips for Great Poutine
- Cheese Curds: Use fresh ones that squeak. If you can’t find them, use mozzarella chunks, but not shredded cheese.
- Crispy Fries: Frying twice makes the fries stay crunchy under the gravy.
- Hot Gravy: Make sure the gravy is hot so it warms the cheese curds.
- Fun Extras: Try adding bacon, mushrooms, or shredded meat for a twist.
How to Serve
Eat poutine right away while it’s hot and gooey. It’s perfect with a cold drink like soda or beer. It’s messy but so worth it!
Why Poutine Is Special
Poutine is a big deal in Canada, especially in Quebec. It’s comfort food you find at diners, food trucks, and even fancy restaurants. Making it at home is fun and brings a taste of Canada to your kitchen.
Enjoy your homemade poutine! It’s simple, hearty, and full of flavor.
