Real Poutine

4.6
(83)

Poutine is an indulgence of crispy French fries, savory gravy, and melted cheese curds. Make this delicious Canadian specialty at home with this easy recipe!

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close up on a large bowl of real poutine, with gravy and cheese curds over french fries
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This indulgent poutine recipe is easy to make at home with just four ingredi

What Is Poutine? 

Poutine, which was invented in Quebec in the 1950s, is a Canadian dish composed of fries topped with cheese curds and hot gravy. "Poutine" is a Quebecois slang word that means "mess."

Learn more: What Is Poutine? 

Poutine Pronunciation

Poutine is pronounced “poo-teen.” 

How to Make Poutine

You'll find a detailed ingredient list and step-by-step instructions in the recipe below, but let's go over the basics:

What Is In Poutine? 

These are the four ingredients you’ll need to make this traditional poutine recipe: 

  • Oil: You’ll need a quart of vegetable oil for frying. 
  • Gravy: Use a store-bought can of beef gravy or make your own at home
  • Fries: Russet potatoes work well for French fries, as they’re extra starchy. 
  • Cheese curds: Cheese curds are key for authentic poutine. However, if you like, you can use shredded mozzarella cheese.

How to Make Homemade Poutine

Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect when you make homemade poutine: 

  1. Heat the oil to 365 degrees F. 
  2. Warm the gravy on the stove or in the microwave.
  3. Fry the French fries and drain on paper towels. 
  4. Place the fries on a serving platter, then top with curds and warm gravy. 

Recipe Tip

Make this poutine recipe your own with these fun and tasty variations: 

  • Add cut-up cooked chicken or hamburger.
  • Italian Poutine: Substitute marinara for gravy.
  • BBQ Poutine: Substitute a light BBQ sauce for gravy.

Allrecipes Community Tips and Praise

“After putting the cheese curds on the fries, put them in the oven for a short time under the broiler,” recommends NipsyLinz. “This melts the curds a bit. Then put the gravy on.”

“If you've never tried (or even heard of) poutine before, TRY THIS RECIPE,” says MaryG. “I live in Quebec and eat this very, very often.”

“This is delicious,” raves MIDNIGHTCAT. “Of course, it's not exactly good for you, but that's not the point. Finding cheese curds can be next to impossible in some parts of the United States, so take the time to order them online and do this recipe justice!”

Editorial contributions by Corey Williams

Real Poutine

(83)
close up on a large bowl of real poutine, with gravy and cheese curds over french fries
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
20 mins
Total Time:
30 mins
Servings:
4

Ingredients

  • 1 quart vegetable oil for frying

  • 1 (10.25 ounce) can beef gravy

  • 5 medium potatoes, cut into fries

  • 2 cups cheese curds

Directions

  1. Heat oil in a deep fryer or deep heavy skillet to 365 degrees F (185 degrees C).

    High angle shot of a pan with a thermometer inside next to a measuring cup with oil

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

  2. While the oil is heating, begin to warm gravy.

  3. Place fries into the hot oil, and cook until light brown, 8 to 10 minutes. Cook fries in batches if necessary to allow them room to move a little in the oil. Remove to a paper towel-lined plate to drain.

    Overhead shot of a baking dish lined with paper towels filled with French fries

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

  4. Place fries on a serving platter, and sprinkle cheese over them.

    Overhead shot of a bowl of French fries topped with cheese curds next to a pan of gravy for poutine

    Dotdash Meredith Food Studios

  5. Ladle warmed gravy over the fries and cheese, and serve immediately.

    close up on a large bowl of real poutine, with gravy and cheese curds over french fries

    DOTDASH MEREDITH FOOD STUDIOS 

Editor's Note:

We have determined the nutritional value of oil for frying based on a retention value of 10% after cooking. Amount will vary depending on cooking time and temperature, ingredient density, and specific type of oil used.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

708 Calories
46g Fat
51g Carbs
24g Protein
Nutrition Facts
Servings Per Recipe 4
Calories 708
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 46g 59%
Saturated Fat 18g 90%
Cholesterol 78mg 26%
Sodium 773mg 34%
Total Carbohydrate 51g 19%
Dietary Fiber 6g 21%
Total Sugars 4g
Protein 24g 48%
Vitamin C 53mg 58%
Calcium 529mg 41%
Iron 3mg 14%
Potassium 1189mg 25%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

(-) Information is not currently available for this nutrient. If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

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