Poutine

Poutine, a famous Canadian dish, consists of crispy fried potatoes topped with savory cheese curds and smothered in gravy. This unique combination of flavors, its comforting nature, and ease of preparation have turned poutine into a beloved option for homemade cooking. - Preparation Time: Approximately 30 minutes.

About Poutine

Poutine is a popular Canadian dish that originated in Quebec. It typically consists of three main components: crispy french fries, cheese curds, and rich gravy. The dish is known for its indulgent and savory flavor. The fries are cooked until golden and crispy, then topped with cheese curds, which are chunks of fresh cheese with a slightly salty and squeaky texture. Lastly, hot gravy is poured over the fries and cheese curds, causing the cheese to melt and create a deliciously gooey and satisfying combination. Poutine has gained popularity beyond Canada and is enjoyed as a comforting and hearty dish worldwide.

POUTINE (FRIES WITH GRAVY AND CHEESE) — POUTINE RECIPE

Ingredients for Poutine (4 servings)

4 large russet potatoes

Vegetable oil, for frying

2 cups cheese curds

2 cups beef or chicken gravy, hot

Instructions:

1. Peel the potatoes and cut them into medium-sized fries, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick.

2. Rinse the cut potatoes under cold water to remove excess starch. Then, place them in a bowl of cold water and let them soak for about 30 minutes. This step helps to remove more starch and results in crispier fries.

3. Drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a kitchen towel or paper towels.

4. Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to approximately 325°F (165°C). Ensure there is enough oil to fully submerge the fries.

5. In batches, fry the potatoes for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are cooked through but still pale in color. They should be tender but not browned.

6. Remove the partially cooked fries from the oil and place them on a wire rack or paper towels to drain excess oil.

7. Increase the oil temperature to approximately 375°F (190°C).

8. Return the partially cooked fries to the hot oil in batches and fry for an additional 2-4 minutes, or until they turn golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning.

9. Once cooked, transfer the fries to a serving dish or individual plates.

10. While the fries are still hot, sprinkle them generously with cheese curds, allowing the curds to melt slightly.

11. Pour the hot gravy over the fries and cheese curds, ensuring that the gravy covers the ingredients evenly.

12. Serve the poutine immediately while it’s hot and enjoy the delicious combination of crispy fries, melted cheese curds, and savory gravy.

Tips and notes:

1. Potato selection: Choose starchy potatoes like russet potatoes for the best results. They have a higher starch content, which helps to achieve crispy fries.

2. Soaking the potatoes: Soaking the cut potatoes in cold water helps to remove excess starch, resulting in crispier fries. It’s an optional step but can make a difference in texture.

3. Double frying method: The double frying method helps to achieve crispy fries with a fluffy interior. The first round of frying at a lower temperature cooks the potatoes, while the second round at a higher temperature crisps them up.

4. Oil temperature: It’s important to maintain the oil temperature consistently. Use a thermometer to monitor the oil and adjust the heat as needed to keep it within the recommended range.

5. Cheese curds: Authentic poutine uses fresh cheese curds, which have a unique texture and flavor. Look for them in specialty cheese shops or substitute with mozzarella or another meltable cheese if curds are not available.

6. Gravy: You can use store-bought beef or chicken gravy for convenience, or prepare your own homemade gravy for a more personalized touch. Ensure the gravy is hot when pouring it over the fries and cheese curds to help melt the cheese.

7. Serving size: Poutine is typically enjoyed as a hearty and indulgent dish. However, you can adjust the serving size and quantities of ingredients to suit your preferences and dietary needs.

8. Variations: Poutine is a versatile dish, and you can customize it to your liking. Consider adding toppings like crispy bacon, caramelized onions, mushrooms, or even pulled pork for added flavor and variety.

9. Eating it promptly: Poutine is best enjoyed immediately after assembling, while the fries are still hot and crispy. This helps to maintain the ideal texture and ensures that the cheese curds melt slightly from the heat of the gravy.