Canada Day was never something that I celebrated (or even heard of, actually) until I became a Buff Boy and worked for a Canadian. He's not super patriotic but I definitely know more about our neighbors to the north than I ever had -- and that includes the interesting foods they eat.
I think most Americans have had cheese fries before. It's increasingly popular at fast-food restaurants instead of the usual french fries. Lately, however, us Yankees hear more and more about a Canadian staple: poutine. It's generally on late-night shows when the hosts reference Canada or on a reality dating show where a Canadian contestant is, let's be honest, mocked by the stereotypes from Americans trying to be funny.
So, I'm bringing out the cheese curds for Canada Day this year! And maybe some other Canadian stereotypes for added measure: maple and bacon. But, I'm doing it as a tribute and not to be funny!
This recipe takes the classic poutine – crispy fries, squeaky cheese curds and rich gravy – and elevates it with the sweet and savory addition of maple-glazed bacon. Trust me, it's a flavor (uh, flavour?) explosion you won't soon forget.
Here's everything you'll need:
For the Fries: Your favorite/favourite frozen fries (or homemade, if you're feeling ambitious!)
For the Gravy: 2 tbsp butter, 2 tbsp all-purpose flour, 2 cups beef broth, 1 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce, salt and pepper to taste
For the Maple Bacon: 1 lb. bacon, 1/4 cup maple syrup
The Essentials: Fresh cheese curds
Let's get cooking!
Fry Time: Cook your fries according to the package directions. Aim for crispy and golden brown. (Seriously, make your own fries for the true experience.)
Gravy Goodness: While the fries are cooking, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux. Slowly whisk in the beef broth, soy sauce, and Worcestershire sauce, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook until the gravy has thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Maple Bacon Magic: Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Remove the bacon from the skillet and drain on paper towels. Once slightly cooled, chop or crumble the bacon into bite-sized pieces. In the same skillet (with the bacon grease!), add the maple syrup. Cook over medium heat for about a minute, until slightly warmed. Add the crumbled bacon to the maple syrup and toss to coat.
Assemble the Masterpiece: Now for the fun part! Pile the hot, crispy fries into a serving dish. Generously scatter fresh cheese curds over the fries. Ladle the hot gravy over the cheese curds and fries. Finally, top with the glorious maple bacon.
Devour and Enjoy: Dig in immediately and savor/savour the symphony of flavors/flavours! The warm gravy melts the cheese curds, the crispy fries provide the perfect base and the maple bacon adds a touch of sweetness and saltiness that elevates this poutine to a whole new level.
So, this Canada Day, gather your Canuckian friends and family, fire up the fryer and celebrate with this truly Canadian masterpiece. Happy Canada Day!