5 Best Poutine Gravy Recipes You Must Try

In the world of comfort food, few dishes can rival the comforting embrace of poutine. Originating from Quebec, Canada, poutine is a dish of French fries topped with cheese curds and drenched in rich, savory gravy. The secret to a truly exceptional poutine lies in its gravy—a sauce that can elevate this simple dish to gourmet heights. Whether you're a poutine aficionado or a curious newcomer, these five gravy recipes are your ticket to mastering the art of poutine perfection.

1. Classic Poutine Gravy

The classic poutine gravy is a straightforward yet flavorful base for the dish:

• Beef Stock: Use a high-quality beef stock for deep, rich flavor.
• Flour: For thickening, plain all-purpose flour works best.
• Butter: Unsalted for control over seasoning.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and a dash of soy sauce for umami.

Here's how you make it:

1. Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Whisk in ¼ cup of flour, cooking until the roux turns a light golden color.
3. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of beef stock, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
4. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat and let it thicken for about 10 minutes.
5. Add seasonings: salt and pepper to taste, a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce, and a dash of soy sauce. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes to meld flavors.

🔄 Note: Simmering the gravy for at least 10 minutes ensures all the floury taste cooks out, leaving a smooth, flavorful sauce.

2. Vegetarian Mushroom Gravy

Offering an alternative for those who prefer a meatless meal:

• Mushrooms: A mix of cremini and shiitake for depth of flavor.
• Vegetable Stock: Homemade or high-quality store-bought.
• Shallots and Garlic: For aromatic complexity.
• Heavy Cream: To give the gravy a silky texture.
• Fresh Thyme and Rosemary: Herbs enhance the earthy flavors.

The steps to create this vegetarian delight:

1. Sauté 2 minced shallots and 3 cloves of minced garlic in 2 tablespoons of olive oil until translucent.
2. Add 8 ounces of chopped mushrooms, cooking until they release their moisture and caramelize slightly.
3. Stir in 1 tablespoon of flour, cook for 1-2 minutes, then deglaze with ½ cup of red wine or sherry.
4. Whisk in 1 ½ cups of vegetable stock, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
5. Add a splash of heavy cream, fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Let the gravy simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing flavors to develop.

3. Spicy Chipotle Gravy

For those who like a kick with their poutine:

• Chipotle Peppers in Adobo: For heat and smokiness.
• Cumin and Paprika: To round out the spicy profile.
• Chicken Stock: Or beef stock for a deeper flavor base.
• Lime Juice: Adds brightness to cut through the richness.
• Cilantro: Finely chopped for garnish.

How to whip up this fiery gravy:

1. Blend 2-3 chipotle peppers with some adobo sauce in a food processor.
2. In a saucepan, combine this mixture with 2 cups of chicken or beef stock.
3. Add 1 teaspoon of cumin and paprika, a squeeze of lime juice, and salt to taste.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Adjust heat with more peppers if needed, and stir in fresh cilantro just before serving.

4. Rich Red Wine Gravy

Turning up the sophistication with a red wine base:

• Red Wine: A robust and full-bodied variety works best.
• Beef or Chicken Stock: Use stock for depth.
• Butter and Flour: For a rich, velvety base.
• Fresh Thyme: Enhances the wine's complexity.
• Shallots: Caramelized for depth of flavor.

To make this gourmet gravy:

1. Caramelize 2 chopped shallots in 2 tablespoons of butter until they turn golden brown.
2. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour, cook for 2-3 minutes to create a roux.
3. Deglaze with 1 cup of red wine, letting it reduce by half.
4. Add 1 cup of stock, fresh thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer until the gravy thickens, about 15-20 minutes.
5. Strain if you desire a smoother texture, otherwise, serve as is for more body.

🎨 Note: The longer the red wine reduces, the more concentrated and complex the flavors become. Don't rush this step!

5. Smokey Bacon Gravy

Bringing out the indulgent side with crispy, smoky bacon:

• Thick-Cut Bacon: For flavor and texture.
• Chicken Stock: Less assertive than beef, allowing bacon to shine.
• Butter and Flour: Creates a silky base for the gravy.
• Maple Syrup: Just a hint to balance the smokiness.

Here's how to make this decadent gravy:

1. Render out 4-6 slices of thick-cut bacon in a skillet until crispy. Remove, but keep the fat.
2. Add 2 tablespoons of butter to the bacon fat, melt, and whisk in 2 tablespoons of flour to make a roux.
3. Gradually add 2 cups of chicken stock, stirring constantly.
4. Chop the cooked bacon and return it to the gravy. Add a splash of maple syrup, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

As we wrap up this exploration of poutine gravies, remember that each recipe brings its unique twist to this Canadian classic. From the straightforward yet flavorful classic to the sophisticated nuances of red wine, or the bold flavors of chipotle and bacon, these gravies invite you to customize poutine to your taste. Whether you're seeking to impress dinner guests, experiment with new flavors, or simply indulge in comfort food, these recipes offer a delightful journey into the heart of what makes poutine so beloved. Each gravy not only adds a distinct taste but also carries with it a story and an experience, making every plate of poutine an occasion to savor.

Can I make poutine gravy ahead of time?

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Absolutely! Gravy can be made a day or two in advance and refrigerated. Reheat gently, adding a splash of water or stock if it has thickened too much in storage. Just remember to give it a good stir to ensure a smooth consistency.

What’s the best substitute for cheese curds?

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If you can’t find cheese curds, shredded mozzarella or a mix of white cheddar and mozzarella can provide a similar texture and melting effect when heated with the gravy.

Is there a low-carb version of poutine?

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Yes, you can make low-carb poutine by substituting traditional fries with baked or fried turnip or rutabaga fries, jicama fries, or even grilled vegetables like eggplant or zucchini for a healthier, carb-conscious approach.

How do I ensure my poutine gravy is gluten-free?

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To make your gravy gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free flour blend or cornstarch for thickening instead of regular flour. Ensure your stock or broth is also gluten-free.

What are some creative toppings for poutine?

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While classic poutine is fantastic as it is, some creative toppings can elevate it further. Try:

• Pulled pork or shredded brisket
• Caramelized onions or mushrooms
• Pickled jalapeños or other pickled vegetables
• Sliced avocado for creaminess
• A poached or fried egg for an added touch of luxury