Andy Montoya
Poutine is a Canadian comfort food made with French fries, savoury gravy, and cheese curds. Cheese curds are the beginning stages of cheese, made by draining the liquid from curdled milk and then salting or brining the remaining curds. They are generally difficult to find in stores because they don't stay fresh for long, but they are very popular in Canada and Wisconsin.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Key component | Yes |
| Consistency | Soft, squeaky |
| Taste | Salty |
| Region | Popular in Canada and Wisconsin |
| Cheese type | Cheddar, halloumi, light cheddars, full-fat mozzarella, cottage cheese |
| Alternative | Fried hamburger |
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What You'll Learn
Cheese curds are the beginning stages of cheese
Cheese curds are a key ingredient in poutine, a classic Canadian comfort food. Poutine consists of french fries topped with cheese curds and gravy. Cheese curds are the beginning stages of cheese. They are moist pieces of curdled milk, eaten either alone as a snack or used in prepared dishes. The curdling is achieved by adding acids and enzymes (rennet) to milk, which causes it to solidify into soft curds. These curds are then drained of their liquid (whey), salted or brined, and left to age into mature cheese.
Cheese curds are typically made from fresh cow's milk, which is coagulated using rennet or an acid. This causes the milk to separate into solid curds and liquid whey. The curds are then cut, heated, and pressed to expel the whey and form the desired texture. This process results in small, irregularly shaped chunks or cubes of cheese curds.
The flavour of cheese curds is mild, but it can vary depending on the process by which they were made. They are often slightly salty, and their texture is described as springy or rubbery. Fresh cheese curds are typically enjoyed soon after they are made, as their unique texture and flavour change as they age. They are particularly popular in Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Quebec, where they are consumed in large quantities and considered a comfort food.
Cheese curds have a long history, dating back to the ancient Romans, who enjoyed a fried cheese curd dish called globuli, or "balls" of delicious cheese curd. Today, they are often served as a snack, finger food, or appetizer, and can be dressed with various flavourings such as jalapeño chili peppers, garlic, herbs, or spice blends. They are also commonly deep-fried and served at carnivals, fairs, and restaurants, especially in Wisconsin and Minnesota.
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They're a key component of poutine
Cheese curds are a key component of poutine, a classic Canadian comfort food. Poutine is made with French fries, savoury gravy, and cheese curds. Cheese curds are simply the beginning stages of cheese. They are made by adding acids and enzymes (rennet) to milk, causing it to curdle and solidify into soft curds. These curds are then drained of their liquid (whey), salted or brined, and left to age into mature cheese. However, at some point, it was discovered that these soft, squeaky morsels of pre-cheese were delicious on their own.
Cheese curds are a popular snack in places like Wisconsin and Canada, and they are especially loved in Canada as a key ingredient in poutine. Because of their popularity in Canada, it is easy to buy frozen or fresh cheese curds and cans of poutine sauce there. However, in most regions of the US, people have to make their own cheese curds and gravy for poutine.
There are many variations of poutine, and adventurous cooks can experiment with different types of French fries, gravies, and additional ingredients like fried hamburger. However, the classic combination of French fries, savoury gravy, and cheese curds is a beloved comfort food for many.
For those who enjoy the unique texture and flavour of cheese curds, it is worth noting that their squeakiness is a sign of freshness. The sound is caused by the tightly bound proteins in the cheese curds rubbing against the enamel of the teeth, and it becomes less pronounced as the proteins break down over time. So, if you're looking for the freshest cheese curds to add to your poutine, listen for that distinctive squeak!
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Poutine is a Canadian comfort food
Cheese curds are a key component of poutine, and they are simply the beginning stages of cheese. Curds are formed when milk is curdled with the addition of acids and enzymes, resulting in soft, solid curds. These curds are then drained of their liquid (whey), salted or brined, and left to mature into cheese. However, at some point, it was discovered that these soft, squeaky cheese curds were delicious on their own.
In poutine, cheese curds are typically used in their raw form, providing a unique textural and auditory experience. The "squeak" of fresh cheese curds is caused by the rubbing of tightly bound proteins against the enamel of the teeth. This sound is a sign of freshness, as the proteins break down over time, resulting in older curds losing their squeakiness.
While poutine is often made with cheese curds, there are variations depending on availability and personal preference. Some alternatives to cheese curds in poutine include halloumi, light cheddar, full-fat mozzarella, and cottage cheese. In some regions, like the US, where cheese curds may be harder to come by, creative substitutions are sometimes necessary.
Poutine is a versatile dish, and cooks often add their own twists. One common variation is to add fried hamburger under the gravy and cheese. The type of potatoes used for the fries can also vary, with options like baked, fried, or frozen, and different regions may have their preferences, such as using red potatoes in Quebec.
Whether enjoyed in its classic form or with creative additions, poutine remains a beloved comfort food in Canada and beyond.
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They're hard to find in the US
Cheese curds, a key component of poutine, are simply the beginning stages of cheese. They are young cheddars that haven't been aged at all, or other types of cheese that have been broken up into curd-like pieces. They are typically drained of their liquid (whey), then salted or brined, and left to age into mature cheese.
Cheese curds are hard to find in the US due to their short shelf life. They get stale quickly, even in the refrigerator, so there is less profit to be made from them compared to cheese that can sit longer on shelves. This means that they are usually only found in stores near dairy farms.
In the US, cheese curds are most commonly found in Wisconsin and other parts of the Midwest, where they are distinguished by their freshness. Wisconsin has specific laws that permit cheese curds to be sold up to one day after production without refrigeration, which is not the case in other states. Outside of Wisconsin, cheese curds are harder to come by, and you are unlikely to find them in grocery stores.
In California, fresh, raw milk cheese products, including curds, are illegal due to a food safety law. However, cheese curds can still be sold in the state as long as they have been aged for at least 60 days.
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They're made from cows' milk
Cheese curds are a key component of poutine, a classic Canadian comfort food. They are made from cow's milk, which is turned into cheese through the addition of acids and enzymes (rennet). This causes the milk to curdle and solidify into soft curds, which are then drained of their liquid (whey). These curds are simply the beginning stages of cheese, but they are tasty on their own and have a distinctive "squeak" when eaten raw due to the friction of their tightly bound proteins against the enamel of the teeth. This sound is an indicator of freshness, as the proteins break down over time.
Cow's milk is the most common type of milk used in cheese-making, and the process of making cheese curds begins with curdling the milk. The curdled milk is then cut or stirred to separate the curds from the whey. The curds are then drained and can be salted or brined before being left to age and become mature cheese. In the case of cheese curds for poutine, the curds are typically used fresh, providing a unique texture and mouthfeel to the dish.
While cheese curds are commonly made from cow's milk, they can also be made from other types of milk, such as goat's or sheep's milk. However, cow's milk is the most widely available and commonly used option for cheese production. It has a higher fat and protein content compared to other types of milk, making it ideal for cheesemaking. The milk is typically pasteurized before being turned into cheese to eliminate any harmful bacteria and ensure food safety.
The process of making cheese curds from cow's milk involves a series of specific steps. After the milk is curdled and the curds are separated, they undergo a process called "cheddaring." This involves stacking and flipping the curds to increase acidity and develop the desired flavour and texture. This step is particularly important in the production of cheddar cheese, which is a common type of cheese used for poutine.
In summary, cheese curds used in poutine are typically made from cow's milk and are a delicious and essential component of this classic Canadian dish. The process of making cheese curds involves curdling milk, separating and draining the curds, and sometimes ageing them to create a mature cheese. The freshness and squeakiness of the curds are part of what makes poutine such a unique and comforting culinary experience.
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Frequently asked questions
Cheese curds are simply the beginning stages of cheese. They are soft, squeaky morsels of pre-cheese formed when milk is curdled by adding acids and enzymes.
Poutine is a Canadian comfort food consisting of French fries, gravy, and cheese curds. The cheese curds used in poutine are ideally made from cheddar, which is a popular cheese in Canada.
In Canada, it is easy to find frozen or fresh cheese curds in stores. In other regions, like the US, cheese curds may be harder to find in stores, so you may need to make your own or substitute with other cheeses like halloumi, light cheddar, mozzarella, or cottage cheese.
To make poutine, you will need French fries, gravy, and cheese curds. You can use any type of French fried potatoes you prefer, such as baked, fried, or frozen. For the cheese curds, you can either purchase them or make your own by separating the curds from the whey and then salting or brining them. Assemble the French fries, top with gravy, and add the cheese curds. Enjoy the ultimate comfort food!
