Poutine Cascades

Originating from rural Quebec in the late 1950s, poutine became a beloved Canadian dish known for its curious yet irresistibly delicious mix of flavors and textures. With crispy fries, squeaky cheese curds, and a rich brown gravy, poutine offers a perfect harmony of gooey, crispy, and savory elements. Not only is it a comfort food staple in Canada, poutine has transcended borders to become an internationally recognized dish.

Our take on the classic, the "Poutine Cascades," involves layering the ingredients in such a way that each bite flows seamlessly into the next, mirroring a cascade of flavors and sensations on your palate. Below, find our step-by-step guide to creating this culinary delight in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

• Russet potatoes - 6 large pieces
• Cheese curds - 2 cups
• Brown gravy - 2 cups
• Vegetable oil - 4 cups for frying
• Salt - to taste
• Pepper - to taste

Preparation

Preparing the Potatoes

1. Thoroughly wash and peel the potatoes.
2. Cut the potatoes into evenly sized strips to form fries.
3. Soak the cut potatoes in a bowl of cold water for at least an hour. This helps in removing excess starch and results in crispier fries.
4. Drain the water and pat the potato strips dry with a clean towel.

Preparing the Gravy

While the potatoes soak, start on the gravy. You can use store-bought gravy for convenience, but making it from scratch enhances the dish's flavor:

1. Heat a saucepan over medium heat and add a tablespoon of vegetable oil.
2. Add flour and whisk until it turns golden brown.
3. Slowly incorporate beef or chicken stock, continuing to whisk to avoid lumps.
4. Simmer until the gravy thickens.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Cooking Process

Frying the Fries

1. Preheat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or heavy pan over medium-high heat to 350°F (175°C).
2. Add the dried potato strips into the hot oil in batches. Fry for 4-5 minutes until golden and crispy.
3. Remove the fries using a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels. Sprinkle with salt while still hot.

Assembling the Poutine Cascade

1. Place a layer of crispy fries on a warm serving dish.
2. Top with a generous amount of cheese curds, spreading them evenly.
3. Spoon over hot gravy ensuring all the curds are slightly submerged to begin melting.
4. Repeat with another layer of fries, cheese curds, and then gravy, creating layers that cascade like a gentle waterfall merging all elements harmoniously.

Enjoying Your Poutine Cascade

Enjoy your Poutine Cascade immediately. The dish is best served hot, capitalizing on the contrast between the crispy texture of the fries and the squeaky, slightly melted cheese curds, all enveloped by the savory warmth of the gravy. This dish is perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying as a solo indulgence. Consider pairing with a light ale or cider to complement the rich flavors.