Dinner

Ozark Poutine

Name: Ozark Poutine
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 to 5 large russet potatoes, cut into 1/2-inch thick fries; 2 to 3 tablespoons vegetable oil (plus more for frying); Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste; 1 head garlic; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 6 to 8 slices bacon, cooked crisp and crumbled; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1/4 cup chopped green onions

A delightful take on classic poutine, featuring crispy homemade fries, a rich roasted garlic cream sauce, and savory toppings like bacon, fresh tomatoes, and green onions.

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top 1/4 inch off the head of garlic to expose the cloves. Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until very soft and fragrant. Set aside to cool slightly.
While the garlic roasts, prepare the potatoes. Rinse the cut potato fries under cold water until the water runs clear. Pat them thoroughly dry with paper towels. In a large bowl, toss the dried fries with 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil, salt, and pepper.
Heat about 2-3 inches of vegetable oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to 325°F (160°C). Fry the potatoes in batches for 5-7 minutes per batch, until softened but not browned. Remove with a slotted spoon and place on a wire rack over paper towels to drain. Increase the oil temperature to 375°F (190°C).
Fry the potatoes a second time in batches for 3-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and immediately season with salt and pepper. Keep warm.
Once the roasted garlic is cool enough to handle, squeeze the softened cloves into a small saucepan. Add the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low, stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep warm.
To assemble the Ozark Poutine, divide the hot crispy fries among individual serving plates or a large platter. Ladle a generous amount of the warm roasted garlic cream sauce over the fries. Sprinkle generously with the crumbled bacon, diced tomatoes, and chopped green onions.
Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Ozark Poutine!

This Ozark Poutine recipe elevates comfort food to a gourmet experience, blending the rustic charm of Canadian poutine with a distinctive Southern twist. The heart of this dish lies in its perfectly crisp, golden fries and the luxurious roasted garlic cream sauce, creating a harmony of textures and flavors. It’s a truly satisfying dish, perfect for a hearty meal or a decadent appetizer to share.