Prairie Blaze Poutine

Introduction to Prairie Blaze Poutine

Poutine is a quintessential Canadian dish that originated in Quebec in the late 1950s. Traditionally made with French fries, cheese curds, and gravy, this dish has become a symbol of Canadian cuisine. The Prairie Blaze Poutine adds a spicy twist to the classic recipe, incorporating fiery elements that pay tribute to the expansive and sometimes wild landscapes of Canada's prairies.

History of Poutine

The history of poutine is both legendary and disputed among culinary historians. The dish emerged in rural Quebec and was initially met with some skepticism. However, as its delicious combination of flavors was recognized, poutine rapidly gained popularity throughout Canada and beyond. It has since become a versatile dish with numerous variations, each representing different regions and their unique take on this classic.

Ingredients

To make the Prairie Blaze Poutine, ensure you have the following ingredients:

• French fries - 1 large bag or freshly cut potatoes
• Cheese curds - 2 cups, preferably white cheddar
• Gravy - 2 cups, preferably beef or vegetarian
• Hot sauce - 2 tablespoons, to taste
• Jalapenos - 1/4 cup, sliced
• Cayenne pepper - 1 teaspoon, for an extra kick
• Salt - to taste

Preparation

Before you start cooking, it is crucial to prepare all of your ingredients properly. Here’s how:

Preparing the French Fries

1. Wash and peel the potatoes if making fresh French fries.
2. Cut the potatoes into strips, ensuring they are of uniform size for even cooking.
3. Soak the potato strips in cold water for at least 30 minutes. This will help remove excess starch and make them crispier.
4. Drain the potatoes and pat them dry with paper towels.

Preparing the Cheese Curds

1. Ensure the cheese curds are fresh. If refrigerated, let them sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before use to soften slightly.

Preparing the Gravy

1. Heat the gravy in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the hot sauce and cayenne pepper to the gravy to infuse the spicy flavor.

Cooking Process

Frying the French Fries

1. Preheat the oil in a deep fryer or a deep, heavy-bottomed saucepan to 350°F (175°C).
2. Add the dried French fries in small batches, frying them until they are golden brown and crisp.
3. Remove the fries from the oil using a slotted spoon and drain them on paper towels. Sprinkle salt to taste.

Assembling the Poutine

1. Place a generous portion of the freshly cooked French fries on a serving plate.
2. Scatter a handful of cheese curds over the hot fries to allow them to begin melting.
3. Ladle the spicy gravy over the fries and cheese curds. The heat from the gravy will melt the cheese curds further.
4. Garnish with sliced jalapenos for an additional fiery kick.

How to Enjoy Prairie Blaze Poutine

Prairie Blaze Poutine is best served hot, with the cheese and gravy providing a perfect contrast to the crispy French fries. Pair it with a cold beverage such as a light beer or sparkling water to tone down the heat. This poutine variation is perfect for those who enjoy a bit of spice and are looking for an innovative twist on a classic Canadian dish. For the spice enthusiasts, you can adjust the level of hot sauce and cayenne pepper to suit your taste preferences. Whether enjoyed as a main dish or a savory side, Prairie Blaze Poutine is sure to ignite your taste buds and leave a lasting impression.