Are you ready to indulge in a dish that’s not only comforting but also surprisingly healthy? Say hello to "Almost Healthy Vegan Poutine," a delightful twist on the classic Canadian favorite that will have your taste buds dancing with joy! Imagine crispy, golden fries smothered in rich mushroom gravy, topped with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor, all while being completely plant-based. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or impressing your friends at your next gathering. Get ready to dive into this guilt-free comfort food that proves you can have your fries and eat them too!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Canadian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 large potatoes, cut into fries
- 1 cup mushroom gravy
- 1/2 cup nutritional yeast
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). This will ensure that your fries become crispy and golden.
- Wash and peel the potatoes, if desired. Cut them into evenly sized fries, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick, to ensure they cook evenly.
- Place the cut fries in a large bowl and rinse them under cold water to remove excess starch. Drain and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.
- In the same bowl, toss the fries with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Make sure each fry is evenly coated.
- Spread the fries out in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- While the fries are baking, prepare the mushroom gravy. In a saucepan over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté your choice of chopped mushrooms (about 2 cups) until they are soft and browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add 1 cup of vegetable broth to the mushrooms, along with salt and pepper to taste. Bring to a simmer.
- In a small bowl, mix 2 tablespoons of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of water to create a slurry. Stir this mixture into the simmering gravy to thicken it. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the gravy reaches your desired consistency.
- Once the fries are done, remove them from the oven and place them on a serving platter.
- Pour the hot mushroom gravy generously over the fries, ensuring they are well-coated.
- Sprinkle the nutritional yeast over the top for a cheesy flavor and additional nutrition.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Almost Healthy Vegan Poutine while it's hot!
Tips
- Choose the Right Potatoes: For the best texture, opt for starchy potatoes like Russets. They create the crispiest fries that hold up well under the gravy.
- Soak the Fries: If you have time, soak your cut fries in cold water for 30 minutes before baking. This helps remove excess starch and enhances their crispiness.
- Don’t Overcrowd the Baking Sheet: Spread the fries out in a single layer on your baking sheet to ensure they cook evenly and get that perfect golden brown color.
- Experiment with Seasonings: Feel free to add your favorite spices to the fries before baking. Garlic powder, paprika, or even a pinch of cayenne can elevate the flavor.
- Make It Your Own: Try adding sautéed onions or bell peppers to the mushroom gravy for an extra layer of flavor. You can also top your poutine with fresh avocado or a drizzle of vegan sour cream for added richness.
- Serve Immediately: Poutine is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven, so serve it right away to maintain the fries' crispy texture and the gravy's warmth.
- Garnish for Presentation: Don’t skip the fresh parsley garnish! It not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness that complements the rich flavors beautifully.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 220kcal
Carbohydrates: 35g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
