La Poutine du Lac
Introduction to Poutine
Poutine is a classic Canadian dish that originated in the province of Quebec in the late 1950s. It consists of fries, cheese curds, and gravy. Over the years, poutine has evolved into a culinary staple beloved by many across the world.
La Poutine du Lac is a special version that brings a local twist from the Lake region of Quebec, incorporating fresh local ingredients and a unique preparation style.
Ingredients
- Potatoes - 4 large
- Cheese Curds - 2 cups
- Butter - 1/4 cup
- Flour - 1/4 cup
- Beef Broth - 2 cups
- Cornstarch - 1 tablespoon
- Water - 1 tablespoon
- Salt - to taste
- Pepper - to taste
- Vegetable Oil - for frying
Preparation
Preparing the Potatoes
Begin by washing the potatoes thoroughly under running water. Peel them and cut them into thick, even strips. Soak them in cold water for at least 30 minutes to remove excess starch. This helps in making the fries crispy.
Making the Gravy
While the potatoes are soaking, start preparing the gravy. In a saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk continuously until the mixture turns a golden brown, taking care not to burn it.
Slowly add the beef broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring it to a gentle boil. In a small bowl, mix cornstarch with water to make a slurry and add it to the simmering gravy, stirring until it thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep the gravy warm.
Frying the Fries
Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or a large pot to 350°F (175°C). Drain the potatoes and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
For best results, double fry the potatoes. Fry them in batches for about 4-5 minutes until they are pale and limp. Remove them onto a tray lined with paper towels to drain off excess oil. Raise the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C) and fry the potatoes again for another 3-4 minutes until they are golden and crispy.
Assembling La Poutine du Lac
Place a portion of hot, freshly cooked fries onto a serving plate. Immediately scatter the cheese curds over the fries. Pour the hot gravy over the top, ensuring the cheese curds begin to melt slightly from the heat of the fries and gravy.
Enjoying La Poutine du Lac
- Serving Size: Serve hot to ensure the fries are crispy and the cheese curds are melty.
- Accompaniments: Enjoy with a chilled lager or a refreshing local cider for an authentic Quebecois experience.
- Garnish: For an extra kick, feel free to add freshly chopped chives or crispy bacon bits.
- Tip: Use a timer to ensure fries are cooked to perfection.
La Poutine du Lac is best enjoyed straight from the plate, allowing the comfort of this iconic meal to truly be savored.