Moose Poutine Soup
The Heritage of Poutine and Moose
Moose Poutine Soup is a fusion dish that combines two of Canada's iconic culinary elements: the decadent poutine and the gamey flavor of moose meat. The story of poutine originates from rural Quebec in Canada during the 1950s. Traditionally, poutine consists of French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. Meanwhile, moose meat has been a staple in the diets of Indigenous peoples in Canada for centuries due to its availability and nutritional value. This soup integrates the rustic heartiness of poutine with the rich protein of moose, resulting in a satisfying dish that embodies the spirit of the Canadian wilderness.
Ingredients
- Moose meat (1 lb, diced)
- Potatoes (3 large, diced)
- Cheese Curds (1 cup)
- Onion (1 large, chopped)
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
- Beef Broth (4 cups)
- Mixed Vegetables (2 cups)
- Butter (2 tablespoons)
- Flour (2 tablespoons)
- Salt and Pepper (to taste)
- Thyme (1 teaspoon)
- Bay Leaf (1)
- Oil (for browning)
Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, ensure all your ingredients such as moose meat, potatoes, onion, and garlic are prepped and ready. This includes dicing, chopping, and mincing according to the ingredient list provided.
Cooking Instructions
Brown the Moose
In a large pot, heat a small amount of oil. Add the moose meat and brown on all sides, approximately 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, melt butter. Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft and fragrant.
Create the Base
Sprinkle flour over the cooked onion and garlic, stirring to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the beef broth until smooth.
Add Remaining Ingredients
Return the browned moose to the pot. Stir in potatoes, mixed vegetables, thyme, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Simmer the Soup
Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour until the moose is tender. Refer to a cooking timer to keep track.
Final Touches
Before serving, remove the bay leaf. Stir in the cheese curds until melted and incorporated.
Enjoying Moose Poutine Soup
Serve your Moose Poutine Soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh thyme on top. This hearty soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread and a fresh salad. Its robust flavors evoke a sense of adventure and embrace the essence of Canadian comfort food.