How to Make a Classic Canadian Poutine with Homemade Gravy
Poutine is one of Canada’s most famous comfort foods. It’s warm, delicious, and full of flavor. This dish is made with three key ingredients: crispy French fries, gooey cheese curds, and rich gravy. While some people order it at restaurants, you can also make it at home. Today, we’ll walk you through how to make a classic Canadian poutine featuring homemade gravy. The process is simple, and the results are worth it.
What is Poutine?
Poutine originated in Quebec, Canada, in the 1950s. It has grown in popularity and is now a popular dish across the country. The combination of crispy fries, squeaky cheese curds, and savory gravy makes it a hit with people of all ages. Perfect for parties, a snack, or even dinner, poutine is a dish you’ll want to learn to make at home.
Ingredients for Your Classic Poutine
To make delicious poutine, you need three components: crispy fries, cheese curds, and gravy. Here’s what you’ll need:
For the Fries:
- 4 large russet potatoes (or any starchy potato)
- Vegetable or canola oil (for frying)
- Salt (for seasoning)
For the Cheese Curds:
- 1 to 2 cups of fresh cheese curds (white or yellow, as per your preference)
For the Homemade Gravy:
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups beef or chicken broth
- ½ teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s break it down into easy steps:
Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes
Start by peeling and cutting your potatoes into thin, even slices for fries. You want them to be about the size you’d get from a fast-food restaurant. Once cut, soak the fries in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This removes excess starch and makes the fries extra crispy when cooked.
After soaking, drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a towel. This step is important to avoid extra moisture when frying.
Step 2: Fry the Potatoes
Heat your vegetable or canola oil to 325°F (around 160°C) in a deep fryer or a large pot. Fry the potatoes in small batches to avoid overcrowding. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, or until they’re slightly golden but not fully crispy. Remove the fries and let them rest on a paper towel.
Next, increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C). Fry the potatoes a second time for about 2 minutes, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. Double frying ensures your fries are crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside. Sprinkle salt on them while they’re still hot.
Step 3: Make the Homemade Gravy
While your fries are cooling, it’s time to make the gravy. Start by melting butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the flour and stir constantly for about 2 minutes to create a roux. The mixture will turn into a paste.
Slowly pour in the beef or chicken broth while whisking. Stir to dissolve any lumps. Let the gravy simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until it thickens. Add Worcestershire sauce, if desired, for extra flavor. Finally, season the gravy with salt and pepper to your taste.
Step 4: Assemble Your Poutine
Now comes the fun part: putting everything together! Start by placing your fries onto a large plate or bowl. Add a generous layer of cheese curds on top. Finally, pour the hot gravy over the fries and curds. The heat from the gravy will melt the cheese curds slightly, creating the ooey-gooey texture poutine is known for.
Tips for Perfect Poutine
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Use Fresh Cheese Curds: Fresh cheese curds are the best because they’re soft and squeaky. You can often find them at local farmers’ markets or specialty cheese stores.
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Double Fry Your Fries: Don’t skip the double frying process. It makes the fries extra crispy, which is important for holding up the gravy.
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Serve Immediately: Poutine tastes best when served hot. Enjoy it right after assembling to fully appreciate the melty cheese and crispy fries.
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Experiment with Add-Ons: Once you’ve mastered the classic poutine, you can try adding bacon bits, green onions, or even pulled pork for a twist!
Why Make Poutine at Home?
Sure, you can buy poutine at restaurants, but homemade poutine has its own charm. It’s more affordable, and you can adjust the flavors to your liking. Plus, it’s a fun way to bring a taste of Canada to your kitchen. Making it from scratch also lets you enjoy the process and impress your friends or family.
In Conclusion
Classic Canadian poutine is a comforting dish that’s easy to make at home. With crispy fries, cheese curds, and delicious homemade gravy, this recipe can be your go-to for a cozy meal or snack. Whether you’re hosting a party or treating yourself, poutine is sure to satisfy.
So why not give it a try? Gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and enjoy a taste of Canada in your own kitchen. Happy cooking!
