Recipe
Classic Canadian Poutine
Crisp fries, squeaky cheese curds and glossy beef gravy make this Canadian comfort-food classic. It is simple to assemble and best served straight away while the fries are still crunchy.
Ingredients
Method
10 mins prep25 mins cook35 mins total
Cook the oven fries according to the packet instructions until deeply golden and crisp.
Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 2 minutes to make a smooth roux.
Whisk in the beef stock a little at a time. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring, until thick enough to coat a spoon. Season with salt and pepper.
Pile the hot fries into warm bowls and scatter over the cheese curds.
Pour over the hot gravy and serve immediately, while the fries are crisp and the curds are just beginning to soften.
Notes
Keep the fries hot and the gravy bubbling gently, then assemble at the table so the curds soften while some texture remains.
About this recipe
Classic Canadian poutine is all about contrast: crisp fries, warm cheese curds and a savoury gravy that ties everything together. Making the gravy separately keeps the fries crisp until the last moment.
Use oven fries for an easy home-kitchen version, then pour over the gravy just before serving. The curds should soften under the heat without disappearing completely.
