Poutine, the beloved Canadian dish, is a harmonious blend of crispy fries, savoury gravy and squeaky cheese. Originating in Quebec, this comfort food has earned a global fanbase. Our exploration delves deep into the heart of Poutine, focusing on the star ingredient: cheese curds. Read on to find out what type of cheese is in Poutine.
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What is Poutine?
Poutine, a quintessential Canadian dish, is a glorious medley of crispy French fries, fresh cheese curds and brown gravy. Hailing from the province of Quebec, this indulgent comfort food has not only captured the hearts of Canadians but has also gained international acclaim for its irresistible combination of flavours and textures.
The history of Poutine
The origins of Poutine are as rich and diverse as the dish itself. This beloved Canadian comfort food has a storied history, rooted in the French-Canadian communities of Quebec.
While there are several legends surrounding its creation, one thing is certain: Poutine emerged from the creative culinary minds of Quebecois chefs. And it brings together humble ingredients in a harmonious, indulgent symphony.
The birthplace: Rural Quebec, 1950s
The most widely accepted origin story dates back to rural Quebec in the late 1950s. It is believed that a customer at a small diner in Warwick, Quebec, requested a side of cheese curds to be added to his fries and gravy.
The diner’s owner, Fernand Lachance, obliged, and the first known instance of Poutine was served. The term “Poutine”, a Quebecois slang word meaning “a mess”, perfectly described the dish – a delightful mess of flavours, textures and warmth.
Poutine gains popularity: 1960s-1970s
Throughout the 1960s and 1970s, Poutine steadily gained popularity in Quebec. It became a staple at diners, pubs and food stands, captivating the taste buds of locals and visitors alike.
Its appeal was not just in its delicious taste but also in its simplicity and affordability, making it accessible to people from all walks of life.
Spreading across Canada: 1980s and beyond
By the 1980s, Poutine had transcended its regional roots and started to appear on menus across Canada. Its reputation as a hearty, satisfying dish grew, and chefs began experimenting with different variations, incorporating diverse toppings and gourmet ingredients.
Poutine had become a symbol of Canadian cuisine, celebrated not only in its place of origin but also throughout the country.
Poutine goes global: 21st century
In the 21st century, Poutine’s popularity knew no bounds. Canadian expatriates and travellers introduced the dish to international audiences, sparking curiosity and admiration.
Moreover, Poutine-themed restaurants and food trucks began popping up in various parts of the world, offering locals a taste of this Canadian delight.
The components of a traditional Poutine
Let’s take a closer look at the individual components that made this dish.
French fries
The foundation of any good Poutine is a hearty serving of golden, crispy French fries. Ideally, they are thick-cut and fried to a perfect crispiness, providing a satisfying crunch in every bite.
Cheese curds
At the heart of Poutine are the cheese curds. These are small, fresh chunks of cheese, that have a distinctive squeak when you bite into them. The freshness of the cheese curds is essential; they should be enjoyed shortly after they are made to preserve their unique texture.
Brown gravy
To tie the dish together, Poutine is generously smothered in rich, flavourful gravy. The gravy is usually a savoury beef-based sauce, although there are variations with chicken, turkey or even vegetarian gravies..
The hot gravy works its magic, slightly melting the cheese curds and blending with the fries to create a gooey, satisfying mess of flavours.
Cheese curds: The quintessential ingredient in Poutine
At the heart of every delectable Poutine lies the star ingredient: cheese curds. Indeed, these small, fresh and slightly rubbery nuggets of cheese are integral to the authentic Poutine experience.
Their unique texture and mild, milky flavour are what set Poutine apart. Consequently, cheese curds are an essential component of this beloved Canadian dish.
The making of cheese curds
Cheese curds are made through the initial stages of cheesemaking. During the cheese production process, enzymes and cultures are added to milk, causing it to coagulate and form curds.
These curds are then cut into small pieces, releasing whey. The curds are separated, creating the distinct texture that characterises cheese curds. Unlike aged cheeses, cheese curds are not pressed, allowing them to maintain their moisture and squeaky texture.
The squeak factor
One of the most defining features of fresh cheese curds is their characteristic squeak when bitten into. This delightful sound, known as the “squeak factor”, is a testament to the curds’ freshness.
However, the squeakiness gradually diminishes as the curds age. Hence, biting into a squeaky curd is the ultimate audible confirmation of freshness.
Freshness is key
The quality of cheese curds is paramount in Poutine preparation. Ideally, cheese curds should be consumed within hours to a few days of their production. This ensures maximum freshness and the optimal squeakiness.
When added to hot, crispy fries and topped with piping hot gravy, the cheese curds slightly melt while still retaining their shape and squeak. As a result, they create a harmonious blend of textures and flavours in the dish.
Cheddar and other varieties
While Cheddar cheese curds are the most traditional choice for Poutine, there are variations available. Some cheese curds are flavoured with herbs, spices, or even infused with different types of cheese, adding unique dimensions to the classic dish.
However, Cheddar remains the most popular and widely used variety, appreciated for its mild taste and versatility.
Beyond Poutine
Of course, cheese curds are not limited to Poutine; they are enjoyed in various forms around the world.
In the United States, particularly in Wisconsin, cheese curds are a popular snack, often deep-fried for a crunchy exterior and gooey interior. Cheese curds are also a staple at farmers’ markets and artisanal cheese shops, where cheese enthusiasts savour their fresh, unaged taste.
How to assemble Poutine
The art of assembling Poutine lies in the layering.
A generous portion of hot, freshly cooked French fries forms the base. Next comes a liberal sprinkling of cheese curds, allowing their warmth to slightly soften them without losing their characteristic squeak.
Finally, the crowning glory is the piping hot gravy, poured over the fries and cheese curds. The heat from the gravy melts the cheese curds just enough, creating a delectable concoction of melted cheese, crispy fries and savoury sauce.
Modern variations of Poutine
As Poutine has evolved from its humble beginnings in rural Quebec, chefs and food enthusiasts worldwide have added their own touches of flair to the dish.
These modern interpretations reflect the diversity of culinary styles and cultural influences. and they push the boundaries of traditional Poutine while paying homage to its comforting essence.
Gourmet creations
Foie Gras Poutine: A luxurious variation, this Poutine is topped with slices of seared foie gras. Unsurprisingly, the foie gras adds a decadent and buttery flavour profile to the classic combination of fries, cheese curds and gravy.
Truffle Poutine: Truffle oil or shavings elevate Poutine to a gourmet level, imparting an earthy, indulgent aroma and taste. Truffle-infused gravy and Parmesan cheese often accompany this delicacy.
Healthy twists
Sweet Potato Poutine: A healthier alternative to regular fries, sweet potato fries are paired with cheese curds and a lighter gravy. This version of Poutine offers a slightly sweet and savoury contrast that appeals to health-conscious diners.
Zucchini or Cauliflower Poutine: For those seeking low-carb options, zucchini or cauliflower slices serve as the base, providing a crunchy texture similar to fries. These versions are often paired with vegetarian or vegan gravy and plant-based cheese alternatives.
Creative toppings
BBQ Pulled Pork Poutine: Tender shreds of BBQ pulled pork add smoky, savoury notes to Poutine. And complement the traditional ingredients to create a fusion of flavours.
Breakfast Poutine: Ideal for brunch, this variation includes toppings like bacon, fried eggs and sausage gravy, transforming Poutine into a hearty breakfast dish.
Sweet Poutine
Dessert Poutine: A sweet twist on the classic, Dessert Poutine features sweet potato fries or churros drizzled with chocolate or caramel sauce, topped with whipped cream, fruit compote and sometimes even ice cream.
These diverse interpretations ensure that Poutine remains a dynamic and exciting dish, constantly surprising and delighting food enthusiasts everywhere.
When do Canadians eat Poutine?
Canadians enjoy Poutine at various times and occasions, making it a versatile and beloved dish across the country.
Here are some common situations when Canadians might indulge in Poutine:
Late-night snacking
Poutine is a popular choice for late-night snacking, especially after a night out or during social gatherings. Indeed, many fast-food restaurants and food trucks stay open late to cater to those craving Poutine after hours.
During festivals and events
Poutine is often served at festivals, fairs and outdoor events across Canada. Its hearty nature makes it a favourite choice for attendees looking for a satisfying and filling meal while enjoying the festivities.
Sports games
Whether it’s hockey, baseball or any other sport, Poutine is a go-to snack for sports fans. Because of this, many sports stadiums and arenas offer Poutine as part of their concession stand menu.
Casual dining
Poutine is a staple menu item in many casual dining restaurants, pubs and diners throughout Canada. It’s commonly enjoyed as a main course or shared appetiser among friends and family during relaxed meals out.
Brunch or breakfast
Some restaurants offer breakfast Poutine, featuring ingredients like fried eggs, bacon or sausage gravy. This version of Poutine is a hearty brunch option for those craving a savoury morning meal.
Hangovers
Due to its comforting and filling qualities, Poutine is a popular choice for those recovering from a night of indulgence. The combination of carbs, cheese and gravy is believed by some to be a great remedy for a hangover.
Where to find the best Poutine in Quebec
Quebec is the birthplace of Poutine, so you can find excellent Poutine throughout the province. While tastes vary, here are some popular and well-regarded places to enjoy Poutine in Quebec:
1. La Banquise (Montreal)
La Banquise is an iconic 24-hour Poutine restaurant in Montreal. They offer a variety of Poutine options, from classic to creative toppings.
2. Chez Ashton (Quebec City)
Chez Ashton is a renowned fast-food chain in Quebec City, famous for its delicious Poutine. The chain offers a straightforward classic Poutine loved by locals and tourists alike.
3. Poutineville (Montreal and Quebec City)
Poutineville is a popular restaurant chain that allows customers to customise their Poutine with various toppings and cheese options. It’s a great place for those who enjoy experimenting with their Poutine.
4. Au Pied de Cochon (Montreal)
Au Pied de Cochon is a high-end restaurant in Montreal that serves a decadent version of Poutine featuring foie gras. This is a must-try for food enthusiasts looking for a unique and indulgent Poutine experience.
5. Le Roy Jucep (Drummondville)
Finally, Le Roy Jucep claims to be the birthplace of Poutine. Established in 1964, this restaurant serves a classic and delicious version of Poutine, making it a historical stop for Poutine enthusiasts.
Remember, the best place to enjoy Poutine can be a matter of personal preference. It’s worth exploring different restaurants and trying various styles to find your favourite.
Conclusion
In the delightful world of Poutine, where fries meet gravy in a culinary dance of flavours, cheese curds stand tall as the unsung heroes, elevating this dish to extraordinary heights.
As we conclude our exploration, it’s evident that the choice of cheese, particularly the iconic Cheddar curds, plays a pivotal role in the Poutine experience. Their squeaky freshness, their delightful melt under the warmth of gravy, and the rich, mild taste they impart are what make every bite a celebration of Canadian culinary ingenuity.
From the rustic diners of Quebec to gourmet restaurants around the world, Poutine continues to captivate hearts and palates. As you indulge in your next serving of Poutine, whether classic or creatively reinvented, take a moment to savour the cheesy charm that defines this Canadian classic.
It’s not just a dish; it’s a celebration of the simple joys of life, wrapped in the warm embrace of cheese, fries and gravy. Cheers to the cheesy delight that is Poutine!
Jonah is a a hipster, eco-warrior and slow food afficionado. Coming from a scientific background, Jonah has a particular interest in cheese science. And yes, he loves a good cheese pun!
