What Is Poutine?

Originating in the province of Quebec, Canada, Poutine is a simple yet tasty dish made up of French fries and cheese curds, topped with a light brown gravy. A proper poutine is heavenly, and it has gained immense popularity over the decades; this Canadian classic can now be enjoyed all around the world.

History of Poutine

Poutine has a long and complex history; the first documented record of the dish dates back to 1957. According to legend, the dish was created in the small town of Warwick, Quebec at a small restaurant named Le Lutin Qui Rit. During that time, fries and curds were a popular combination amongst locals, but gravy was an untested addition. One day, a customer requested an order of fries, curds, and gravy, and the owner decided to give it a shot. The customer was so pleased with their newfound creation, that it quickly became a staple of the menu.

Over the years, poutine has experienced various incarnations, from the traditional recipe to a variety of variations, such as cheese steak, bacon, pulled pork, and vegetable poutine. As the dish became more and more popular with locals, it spread all across the country and eventually gained international recognition.

How to Make Poutine

Making poutine can seem intimidating, but at the end of the day, it is simple and straightforward. You will need French fries, cheese curds, and gravy. To make the gravy, you can either buy it pre-made from a store or make your own from scratch.

For the French fries, you can make them from scratch using potatoes, or use pre-cut frozen fries. If you are going to make them from scratch, make sure they are cut into similar sizes and fried until they are golden and crispy.

Next, you will need to gather cheese curds. These are tiny pieces of cheese that are made by separating curds and whey during the cheese making process. They usually have a soft and milky flavour, and they are essential for achieving the traditional taste of poutine.

To assemble the poutine, spread the fries on a plate, top with the cheese curds, and then pour on the gravy. You can also mix them together if you wish. Once everything is combined, you will have an amazing plate of poutine.

The Final Word

Poutine is a wonderfully tasty dish that originated in Quebec, Canada, and has spread all around the world. It is a simple yet indulgent meal that can be enjoyed by all. With French fries, cheese curds, and gravy as the main components, it is easy to make and even easier to eat. Whether you are looking for a unique way to enjoy fries, or just crave a delicious Canadian classic, poutine is always a delicious choice.