Irresistible Waffle Fry Spicy Pepper Bacon Poutine: A Bold, Gourmet Twist on a Classic
Prepare to embark on a truly unique culinary adventure with this Waffle Fry Spicy Pepper Bacon Poutine. This innovative dish offers a dynamic new take on the beloved Canadian classic, guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds and redefine your perception of comfort food. While we humbly acknowledge the cherished origins of poutine, this rendition dares to blend old-world comfort with thrilling new flavors. Featuring perfectly crisp waffle fries, generous strips of savory bacon, and a luscious, rich gravy, this dish is elevated to gourmet status with a topping of spicy pepper goat cheese, thoughtfully replacing traditional cheese curds. It’s a symphony of textures and tastes, where the familiar meets the unexpected in every glorious, forkful bite.
Disclosure: This post is proudly sponsored by Cypress Grove! While I received compensation and product in exchange for this post, please know that, as always, all opinions expressed and the recipe shared are genuinely my own. Your support for the brands that make Cake ‘n Knife possible is deeply appreciated!
Friends, fellow food enthusiasts, and connoisseurs of comfort cuisine, I am absolutely thrilled to announce my triumphant return to the glorious world of poutine! It has been several years since I first ventured into the art of crafting this iconic Canadian dish for the blog, a culinary journey that utterly captivated my taste buds and left me yearning for more. That initial classic poutine experience was nothing short of a revelation, a moment where the simple combination of crispy fries, rich gravy, and melty cheese curds transformed into pure, unadulterated deliciousness. Since then, my fascination with poutine has only deepened, leading to exciting variations like the incredibly flavorful Black Porter Chili Poutine—a dish that truly was, as I like to say, “bomb diggity.”
With each successful experiment, one thought continually echoed in my mind: “How can I take poutine up another level?” The quest for the ultimate poutine, a dish that pushes boundaries while honoring its comforting roots, became a delightful obsession. I had already mastered the art of smothering fries in gravy and chili, always paired with the beloved cheese curds, but I knew there was more to explore, a new horizon of flavor waiting to be discovered. This time, I decided to shake things up entirely, venturing beyond the traditional playbook. While the foundation of a truly exceptional gravy remained untouchable—its perfection is simply non-negotiable for any poutine—everything else was fair game. I envisioned a complete transformation, a fresh perspective that would elevate the dish from classic comfort to an unforgettable gourmet experience.
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The Gourmet Inspiration: Cypress Grove’s Sgt. Pepper Goat Cheese
So, where did I find the muse for such a radical, yet incredibly delicious, departure from the poutine norm? The answer is simple, yet profoundly impactful: a singular source of inspiration came from the exquisite cheeses of Cypress Grove. My journey with Cypress Grove began at the very start of my food blogging career, a discovery that truly changed my cheese-loving world.
I distinctly remember being utterly obsessed with Jessica of How Sweet It Is (and, let’s be honest, I’m still a crazy fan girl – just shush and accept it!). She once featured Cypress Grove’s legendary Humboldt Fog atop a vibrant avocado toast, and that image alone was enough to send me rushing out the door later that day to experience it for myself. The moment that creamy, tangy, and subtly complex goat cheese hit my palate, it was a revelation. HOLY YAS. This was, without a doubt, the best cheese I had ever tasted, and my opinion remains steadfastly unchanged to this day.
That initial encounter with Humboldt Fog sparked an insatiable desire to try every single cheese Cypress Grove produced, and my obsession with their exceptional range has only grown stronger. Each cheese is a masterpiece, crafted with passion and unparalleled quality, offering unique flavor profiles that inspire endless culinary possibilities. For this particular poutine creation, I turned to a truly special member of their family: the Sgt Pepper goat cheese. It’s a harmonious blend of creamy goat cheese infused with a vibrant medley of four different peppers, delivering a distinctive tangy and spicy kick that completely reimagines the poutine experience.
Why Sgt. Pepper Cheese is a Game-Changer for Poutine
The Sgt Pepper cheese, with its bold and zesty character, replaces the traditional cheese curds on this plate of gravy-smothered fries, ushering in a whole new dimension of flavor. Unlike the subtle squeak and mild taste of classic curds, Sgt Pepper goat cheese melts into a beautifully creamy, slightly gooey texture that perfectly coats each waffle fry. Its inherent tanginess cuts through the richness of the gravy and bacon, while the infused peppers introduce a delightful warmth and a nuanced spiciness that awakens the palate. This isn’t just a substitute; it’s an enhancement, a flavor upgrade that truly elevates the dish.
The way this cheese blends with the crisp waffle fries, the savory gravy, and the salty, smoky bacon is nothing short of magical. It creates a complex yet incredibly balanced flavor profile that is both comforting and exciting. Each mouthful is an explosion of contrasting yet complementary elements: the satisfying crunch of the waffle fry, the velvety richness of the gravy, the irresistible chewiness of the bacon, and the vibrant, creamy, spicy notes of the Sgt Pepper cheese. It’s a combination so compelling, so utterly delicious, that you might not even consider sharing a single bite before you find yourself having devoured the entire plate. Which, I assure you, I would absolutely not judge you for doing. You do you. 😉
Crafting the Ultimate Waffle Fry Spicy Pepper Bacon Poutine
The Foundation: Crispy Waffle Fries
The choice of waffle fries for this poutine is not just a stylistic one; it’s a strategic decision that profoundly impacts the dish’s texture and overall enjoyment. Waffle fries, with their unique lattice pattern, offer an unparalleled crispness and an increased surface area compared to traditional straight-cut fries. This means more nooks and crannies to capture and hold that glorious, savory gravy and the melting, spicy cheese. They provide a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the tender interior and the soft, rich toppings. Making them from scratch allows for ultimate control over their texture, ensuring they are perfectly golden and crispy, forming the ideal foundation for our gourmet poutine.
The Heart: Rich, Flavorful Gravy
As mentioned, the gravy for any poutine is paramount, and ours is no exception. It’s the unifying force that binds all the components together. Our recipe features a deeply savory beef stock-based gravy, enhanced with a hint of Worcestershire sauce for umami depth and a touch of ketchup for subtle sweetness and acidity. The secret weapon, however, is the chipotle powder, which introduces a smoky, warm spice that complements the peppers in the Sgt Pepper cheese without overpowering it. This gravy is expertly thickened to a perfect consistency, ensuring it clings beautifully to every waffle fry and piece of bacon, delivering rich flavor in every bite.
The Stars: Spicy Pepper Bacon & Sgt. Pepper Cheese
Beyond the gravy and fries, the toppings are where this poutine truly shines. Crispy, salty bacon adds a crucial layer of smoky, meaty flavor and a delightful textural contrast. Each piece of bacon is cooked to perfection, chopped, and generously sprinkled over the dish. But the real star, the ingredient that takes this poutine from great to extraordinary, is Cypress Grove’s Sgt Pepper goat cheese. Its vibrant, tangy, and subtly spicy profile provides an incredible counterpoint to the richness of the other ingredients. As it gently melts from the warmth of the fries and gravy, it becomes wonderfully creamy, creating pockets of intense flavor that are utterly addictive.
Tips for Poutine Perfection
- **Double Fry Your Waffle Fries:** This is the key to achieving ultimate crispness. The first fry at a lower temperature cooks the potato through, and the second fry at a higher temperature creates that irresistible golden-brown exterior.
- **Soak Potatoes in Cold Water:** Before frying, soaking the cut potatoes helps remove excess starch, resulting in crispier fries. Don’t skip drying them thoroughly afterwards!
- **Gravy Consistency is Key:** Ensure your gravy is thick enough to cling to the fries but still pourable. Adjust with a little more stock if it becomes too thick.
- **Serve Immediately:** Poutine is best enjoyed piping hot, right after assembly, when the fries are crisp, the gravy is warm, and the cheese is beautifully melted.
Perfect for Any Occasion
This Waffle Fry Spicy Pepper Bacon Poutine isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. It’s the ideal dish for game day celebrations, a standout appetizer at any party, or simply the ultimate comfort food for a cozy night in. Its unique blend of flavors makes it a conversation starter, sure to impress anyone who dares to try this inventive twist on a beloved classic. Whether you’re a long-time poutine lover or new to the concept, this recipe promises an unforgettable culinary journey.
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This Recipe’s Must Haves
- For the best frying results, I always recommend my trusty Le Creuset Signature Enameled Cast-Iron 5-1/2-Quart Round French Oven.
- To serve up this incredible pile of deliciousness, the Le Creuset Signature Iron Handle Skillet is simply perfect.
- And of course, you absolutely need Sgt. Pepper 4 oz. (4 pack) from Cypress Grove, because you truly must experience this exceptional cheese for yourself!
Don’t forget to Pin this Waffle Fry Spicy Pepper Bacon Poutine recipe for later, so you can revisit this incredible flavor combination whenever a craving strikes!
Waffle Fry Spicy Pepper Bacon Poutine
Ingredients
- 4 lbs Russet potatoes washed and thoroughly dried for crispness
- Canola oil for frying enough to submerge fries
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 cloves garlic finely minced
- 2 cups beef stock for a rich, savory base
- 1/2 tsp Worcestershire sauce for added depth
- 1 Tbsp ketchup for a touch of sweetness and acidity
- 1/2 tsp chipotle powder for a smoky kick
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- 4 to 5 slices bacon cooked until crispy and finely chopped
- 1 4 oz package Cypress Grove’s Sgt Pepper cheese cut into ½-inch pieces for optimal melting
- Garnish: freshly chopped parsley for a touch of color and fresh flavor
Instructions
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Begin by preparing your waffle fries. Using a mandoline with a waffle blade, carefully cut the Russet potatoes into thin, uniform waffle fries. Transfer the cut potatoes to a large bowl and cover them completely with cold water. Refrigerate the bowl for approximately 1 hour; this step helps remove excess starch, leading to crispier fries.
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While your potatoes are chilling, prepare the gravy. In a medium saucepan, melt the unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Once melted, stir in the flour, whisking continuously until the mixture is smooth and forms a roux. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 2 minutes, or until softened and fragrant. Gradually whisk in the beef stock, followed by the ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, chipotle powder, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally, then reduce heat and simmer until the gravy has thickened to your desired consistency, which typically takes about 6 minutes. Cover the saucepan and keep warm on low heat.
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Prepare for frying. Pour enough canola oil into a Dutch oven or a deep, heavy-bottomed pot to reach a depth of about 3 inches. Heat the oil over medium heat until it reaches a temperature of 325°F (160°C). While the oil heats, drain the soaked potatoes thoroughly and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Fry the potatoes in small batches to avoid overcrowding, until they are tender and just beginning to crisp, but not yet browned. Remove the fries to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Allow them to cool for 20 minutes; this is the crucial first fry.
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Increase the heat of the oil to medium-high until it reaches 375°F (190°C). Return the cooled fries to the hot oil, again in small batches, and fry until they are gloriously golden brown and perfectly crispy, typically about 2 minutes per batch. Once fried, remove them to a fresh plate lined with paper towels and immediately sprinkle with salt. For an extra kick, consider mixing a dash of cayenne pepper into your salt before sprinkling!
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To assemble, transfer the hot, crispy waffle fries to a large skillet or a festive serving bowl. Generously pour the warm, rich gravy over the fries. Immediately sprinkle the chopped crispy bacon and the ½-inch pieces of Cypress Grove’s Sgt Pepper cheese evenly over the top. The residual heat from the fries and gravy will gently melt the cheese into gooey perfection. Garnish with a scattering of freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. Serve immediately and enjoy every delicious, spicy, and savory bite!