Description
This classic Canadian poutine recipe features crispy baked French fries smothered in a rich, savory beef gravy and topped with squeaky cheese curds. The homemade gravy is made by browning beef chuck, sautéing onions, creating a flavorful roux, and simmering with beef broth until thickened. Finished with optional fresh chives, this comforting dish is perfect for a hearty snack or meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Gravy
- 2 teaspoons vegetable oil
- 1 pound boneless beef chuck, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1 cup diced onions
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 pinch cayenne pepper
- 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 quart beef broth
Poutine Base
- 1 pound French fries (prepared according to package instructions)
- 3/4 cup cheese curds
- Chopped fresh chives (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Brown beef: Heat a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Drizzle in the vegetable oil and add the chopped beef chuck. Cook the beef, stirring occasionally, until it is well browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté onions: Reduce heat to medium. Add the unsalted butter to the pan, then stir in the diced onions. Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and a pinch of cayenne pepper. Cook the onions until they are soft and lightly golden, approximately 5 minutes.
- Add flour: Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the beef and onions. Stir continuously for 2 to 4 minutes, allowing the flour to cook and form a roux that smells nutty and has a light golden color.
- Simmer gravy: Gradually whisk in the beef broth, ensuring the mixture becomes smooth without lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gravy has thickened to your preferred consistency.
- Prepare fries: Preheat your oven to 450°F (232°C). Arrange the French fries in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 12 to 17 minutes until they are crispy and golden brown.
- Assemble poutine: Transfer the hot fries to a serving plate. Evenly scatter the cheese curds over the fries, then ladle the hot beef gravy generously on top. Garnish with chopped fresh chives if desired, and serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use fresh beef broth for enhanced flavor or substitute with low-sodium broth for a healthier option.
- Cheese curds are traditional, but fresh mozzarella chunks can be used if unavailable.
- Baking the fries instead of frying reduces oil use for a lighter dish.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper amount to control the spice level of the gravy.
- Serve immediately after assembly to prevent the fries from becoming soggy.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Canadian
Keywords: poutine, Canadian recipe, beef gravy, cheese curds, French fries, comfort food
