Canadian Freeze-Dried Corn Poutine

This isn’t a Canadian Canadian classic – it’s freeze-dried corn poutine. OK, OK, the texture and flavour isn’t subtle but it does give the undeniable dish – fries, cheese curds, gravy – a nice crunchy sweetness.

Ingredients:

2 cups frozen French fries

1 cup freeze-dried corn

1 cup fresh cheese curds

2 cups beef or vegetable gravy

2 tablespoons butter

2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

2 cups beef or vegetable broth

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh chives, chopped for garnish

Preparation:

Step 1: Rehydrate the Corn

In about 5 minutes, soak the freeze-dried corn in warm water, then drain thoroughly and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Fries

Preheat oven to 425ºF, and bake the French fries until golden and crispy as per the package instructions. Keep your French fries extra crispy by frying them in a deep fryer, or even baking them in the oven.

Step 3: Make the Gravy

Melt the butter over medium heat in a saucepan, then whisk in the flour to make a roux, cooking it for 2 minutes until it just turns golden.

Stir in the broth slowly, so you don’t get lumps, and bring to a simmer. Cook until the gravy thickens. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 4: Assemble the Poutine

Place crispy fries on large platter or bowl, then spatter fresh cheese curds on top.

Pour the hot gravy liberally over the fries and cheese curds to cover most of the ingredients to allow the cheese to melt.

Sprinkle the rehydrated freeze-dried corn over the top for a sweet crunch.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with chopped chives for a touch of color and freshness.

Serve immediately while everything is warm and the cheese curds are soft and gooey.

This freeze-dried Canadian corn poutine puts a high-tech twist on a national favourite; gilding the lily with a completely new ingredient but keeping it tasting like classic poutine.