Homemade Poutine Cheese Curds

Ingredients

• 2 cups (250g) fresh cheese curds 2 cups (250g) fresh cheese curds
• 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour 1 cup (125g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon baking powder 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup (240ml) cold water 1 cup (240ml) cold water
• Vegetable oil, for frying Vegetable oil, for frying

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 12g, 7g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 25g, 1g
• Protein: 10g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.6g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, baking powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. 2.
   Gradually add the cold water to the dry ingredients, whisking until a smooth batter forms.
3. 3.
   Heat vegetable oil in a deep fryer or large pot to 180°C (350°F).
4. 4.
   Dip each cheese curd into the batter, allowing any excess to drip off, and carefully drop it into the hot oil.
5. 5.
   Fry the cheese curds in small batches for about 2-3 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. 6.
   Remove the fried cheese curds from the oil using a slotted spoon and transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil.
7. 7.
   Serve the homemade poutine cheese curds immediately while they are still warm and crispy.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Cheese curds — It is important to use fresh cheese curds for this recipe to achieve the desired texture. If you can't find cheese curds, you can substitute with small cubes of fresh mozzarella or cheddar cheese.

Tips & Tricks

• Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying the cheese curds to ensure they turn out crispy.
• Work in small batches to avoid overcrowding the fryer or pot, which can result in uneven frying.
• Serve the cheese curds immediately after frying to enjoy them at their best texture and flavor.
• For an extra flavor boost, sprinkle some salt or your favorite seasoning over the fried cheese curds before serving.
• If you prefer a lighter version, you can also bake the cheese curds in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 10-12 minutes until golden brown.

Serving advice

Serve the homemade poutine cheese curds as a delicious appetizer or as a topping for poutine. They can also be enjoyed on their own with a side of dipping sauce, such as ketchup or aioli.

Presentation advice

Arrange the crispy cheese curds on a serving platter or in a bowl, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color. Serve them alongside a small dish of gravy or dipping sauce for an inviting presentation.