Straight from Quebec, poutine combines French fries, cheddar cheese, and gravy in a simple yet irresistible dish. Perfect for four people in just 45 minutes, here’s how to prepare it and why it continues to win hearts.
Information
Time: 45 min
Servings: 4
Difficulty: Easy
Type: Fries / Fast Food
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients
10 large potatoes
2 tbsp flour
2 cups beef broth
2 tbsp butter
250 g cheddar cheese
Salt
Water
Oil for frying
Preparation
French Fries:
Cut the potatoes into strips.
Heat oil over high heat and fry the potatoes in batches (2-4 min).
Drain on paper towels and set aside.
Gravy:
4. Melt the butter in a pan over medium-high heat.
5. Before it fully melts, add the flour and stir until golden.
6. Gradually pour in the broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
7. Cook over medium-low heat until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
Assembly:
8. Serve the fries and season with salt to taste.
9. Add chunks of cheddar cheese (large or small, your choice).
10. Pour hot gravy over the top. Enjoy!
What Is Poutine?
Born in Quebec in the 1950s, this snack combines fries, cheddar cheese, and gravy. “It’s an icon of Canadian fast food,” says the article. Its origin is debated—perhaps a “mess” created by Fernand Lachance or an evolution of pudding—but today, it’s recognized in the Merriam-Webster Dictionary and loved worldwide.
5 Key Tips
Rinse potatoes in cold water to remove starch.
Leave the skin on for extra texture.
Try baking instead of frying.
Add herbs to the gravy for extra flavor.
Use cheese curds (traditional) if available.
Why Love It in 2025?
On today this poutine remains “the best fries you’ll ever try.” Easy, quick, and with a combination of crispy, creamy, and salty flavors, it’s perfect for impressing at home. Make it and bring a piece of Canada to your table.
