Welcome to your new holiday Smoked Meat Poutine Recipe! If you’re looking to spice up your festive table with a dish that’s both uniquely Canadian and irresistibly delicious, you’ve come to the right place. As a professional chef and deli expert, I’ve spent years mastering the art of comfort food, and nothing says “comfort” quite like a hearty plate of smoked meat poutine. This recipe isn’t just about throwing together fries, cheese, and meat; it’s an experience that will engage your senses and leave your guests craving more. Plus, you can find all the essential ingredients right here on our site, ensuring top-quality flavors straight from Lester’s Deli to your kitchen.
Smoked Meat Poutine Recipe Ingredients List
- Lester’s Smoked Meat Classic: The cornerstone of our poutine, offering rich, classic flavors. Purchase here
- Cheese Curds: Fresh and squeaky, the hallmark of any true poutine.
- Fromagerie l’Ancêtre – Known for their organic, semi-firm cheese curds that are GMO-free and made from 100% pure milk, these curds are available in various stores across Quebec. You can find more about their products and where to buy them on their official website.
- P’tit Quebec – This brand offers new Poutine Cheese Curds, which are available at major retailers like IGA, Maxi, Metro, Provigo, Super C, and Walmart. For more information, visit their website.
- Poutine Gravy: Rich, dark, and savory—homemade or store-bought.
- High-Quality Potatoes: Choose Russet or Yukon Gold for the best frying results.
- Lester’s House Mustard: To create a unique, zesty drizzle. Purchase here
- Optional Garnishes: Chopped chives, a sprinkle of smoked paprika, or even a dollop of cranberry sauce for a festive touch.
Preparing Your Ingredients
Fries – The Foundation
- Cut and Soak: Slice your potatoes into thick-cut fries. Soak them in cold water for at least an hour to remove excess starch, which ensures they’ll be crispy once fried.
- Dry and Fry: Pat the fries dry thoroughly. Heat your oil to 375°F and fry in batches until golden brown. Drain on a wire rack and season lightly with salt.
Smoked Meat – The Star
- Heat It Up: Gently steam the Lester’s Smoked Meat Classic to preserve its moisture and flavor. This method brings out the richness of the meat without making it too tough or dry.
Cheese Curds and Gravy – The Toppers
- Room Temperature Curds: Ensure your cheese curds are at room temperature to melt perfectly under the hot gravy.
- Simmer the Gravy: Keep your gravy hot and ready to pour. If it’s homemade, consider adding a touch of Lester’s House Mustard for a unique twist that enhances the gravy’s complexity.
Layering Your Poutine
Constructing the Perfect Bite
- Foundation First: Start with a bed of your crispy fries.
- Add the Meat: Layer chunks of warm smoked meat evenly over the fries.
- Cheese and Repeat: Scatter a generous amount of cheese curds over the hot meat.
- The Gravy Cascade: Pour the hot gravy over the curds and meat, allowing it to seep through the layers, melting the cheese and blending the flavors.
The Final Touches
Garnishing for the Holidays
- Garnish Wisely: Add a sprinkle of chives and a light dusting of smoked paprika. For a festive twist, a spoonful of cranberry sauce on the side of the plate adds a sweet and tart contrast that complements the savory poutine beautifully.
Serving
Serve Immediately: Poutine is best enjoyed hot and fresh. Serve it straight from the kitchen to capture the gooey, melty perfection.
Creating this holiday smoked meat poutine is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about crafting an experience that brings people together. It’s a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly, perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy night in. Remember, the key to a great poutine is high-quality ingredients like our Lester’s Smoked Meat Classic and House Mustard, which you can easily order through our website. Dive into this recipe and let every bite bring you a little closer to culinary bliss!
Personal Anecdote Every year, as I lay the final garnish on my holiday poutine, I’m transported back to my first winter in Montreal, where poutine wasn’t just food; it was a way to survive the cold. This dish is my homage to those hearty, laughter-filled meals that made the season bright.
So, tie on your apron, turn up your favorite holiday tunes, and let’s make this season deliciously unforgettable with the best holiday smoked meat poutine you’ve ever tasted!