For Spring Break this year I found myself in sunny Toronto.  While immersing myself in all things Canadian, I discovered my favourite new comfort food.  Start with a plate of french fries, add a liberal scattering of fresh cheese curds, and top the whole thing with hot gravy.  The Canadians call it poutine, If it sounds a little messy, well that’s acknowledged; it’s name comes from the French (it originated in Quebec) for “it will make a damn mess.” Warm and hearty, it makes a delicious appetizer or side dish; especially on a chilly or dreary day.  After doing some kitchen experimentation, I’ve found it’s also very easy to prepare at home.   

The classic poutine preparation consists of three things:  French fried potatoes, fresh cheddar cheese curds, and turkey gravy.  That being said, there are dozens of ways to tweak the ingredients and create your own “house” variant on the basic recipe.  I would suggest giving the standard formula a try before branching outside