National Poutine Day
Savoring a delightful combination of crispy fries, savory gravy, and gooey cheese curds in this Canadian classic dish.
Coming in a wide range of varieties, poutine is a dish that is distinctly Canadian, specifically from French-speaking Quebec, but has made its way to becoming beloved all around the world!
How to Celebrate National Poutine Day
Show some love for this deliciously messy pile of gravy soaked fries and celebrate National Poutine Day in some of these fun ways:
Enjoy Eating Poutine
Those who live near a place that serves poutine (and who in Canada doesn’t?!) might want to head over to order some up at a local restaurant.
The good news, however, is that just about anyone, even those with very low culinary skills, can probably whip up a batch of poutine at home.
Hop online to search up a recipe that includes pre-made frozen French fries, along with some cheese curds and a simple gravy sauce. Grab a friend to share it with because it’s a delight to enjoy in honor of National Poutine Day!
Learn and Share Fun Facts About Poutine
Increase the hype about this delicious and delightful dish by sharing some interesting bits of trivia with friends, family members or co-workers in honor of National Poutine Day. Or, even better, head over to social media and make a post that shares photos or some of these fun facts to get others involved in the day:
In 2019, the town of Warwick, Quebec in Canada beat the Guinness World Record for the largest poutine, weighing in at more than 3000 kilos (over 6600 pounds)
Though it was invented in the 1950s, the word poutine didn’t make it into Webster’s dictionary until 2014
The name for poutine loosely means ‘mess’ or ‘hot mess’, but also may have originated from a local word for ‘pudding’
History of National Poutine Day
Poutine has a rich history that is a bit hard to pin down – sort of like the ingredients in the dish itself! It was rumored to have been invented in Quebec in the 1950s, when a customer requested squeaky cheese curds on top of his French fries.
Originally served in a paper bag, the food is rumored to have evolved to include ketchup and vinegar, and then later gravy to keep it warm.
Other similar stories have been told, but the origins of this plate of gravy-soaked fries are really less important than the fact that it deserves to be celebrated.
In recent years, poutine has become a foundation for a number of different dishes and varieties, some that are approved of and some that Canadians find appalling. For instance, Italian poutine is topped with spaghetti sauce, Spicy poutine has Tabasco sauce in the gravy, and Galvaude poutine contains shredded chicken and peas.
National Poutine Day has been celebrated for more than a decade, and rumor has it that it was founded in 2014 by film producer and restaurant owner Danny Rodriguez of Smoke’s Poutinerie in California.
While some people seem to celebrate on March 5th, it seems to be more commonly observed on April 11. Of course, no die-hard poutine fans should be stopped from celebrating twice!
National Poutine Day FAQs
How did poutine get its name?
The name “poutine” likely originates from Quebecois slang for “a mess,” reflecting its rustic, comfort-food appeal.
It was first used in rural Quebec diners in the 1950s, describing the unusual combination of fries, cheese curds, and gravy.
This slang also mirrors how the dish mixes different ingredients into a single hearty meal.
Is there a world record related to poutine?
Yes, competitive eater Joey Chestnut holds the record for consuming 28 pounds of poutine in just 10 minutes.
The challenge took place during the World Poutine Eating Championship in Toronto.
His achievement highlights the dish’s enduring appeal and the lengths fans will go to celebrate it.
How do different regions customize poutine?
Poutine has inspired endless regional variations. In Italy, it’s topped with bolognese sauce and parmesan cheese, creating Italian poutine.
In Quebec, Galvaude adds shredded chicken and peas, giving the dish a homey twist.
Other international versions use toppings like kimchi, pulled pork, or even foie gras.
What is La Poutine Week?
La Poutine Week is a global festival where restaurants craft creative poutine dishes for a week of fun competition.
The event began in Montreal but has since spread to cities across Canada and even the U.S. Restaurants compete for titles like “Most Original Poutine,” while diners celebrate their love for the iconic dish.
Did poutine ever appear at a White House event?
Yes, poutine made its way to the White House during a 2016 state dinner hosted by President Obama.
It was included as part of the menu honoring Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
The dish’s appearance at this high-profile event showcased its rise from humble beginnings to global fame.
Are there poutine-flavored products?
Surprisingly, poutine has inspired unusual spin-offs like Jones Soda’s limited-edition poutine-flavored drink.
Released in Canada, the soda aimed to capture the dish’s signature flavors in beverage form.
Though polarizing, the product shows how poutine continues to influence creative food trends.
How do other countries celebrate poutine?
New Zealand-based Giapo’s Ice Cream created a poutine-inspired dessert featuring fries topped with caramel and oolong matcha tea.
In France, similar dishes often include duck confit as a topping.
These adaptations reflect how other cultures embrace poutine while adding their own culinary flair.
What are some myths about poutine’s origin?
Several Quebec diners claim to have invented poutine in the late 1950s, leading to debates over its birthplace.
The most common tale credits Fernand Lachance, who reportedly exclaimed “Ça va faire une maudite poutine!” (“That’ll make a damn mess!”) when combining fries, cheese, and gravy.
These competing stories have become part of the dish’s charm and mystery.
How has poutine influenced pop culture?
Poutine has appeared in movies, TV shows, and even inspired themed restaurants worldwide.
In Canada, poutine-eating contests are a regular feature at food festivals. Its inclusion in pop culture cements its role as a symbol of indulgence and Canadian pride.
Is poutine considered Canada’s national dish?
While poutine is widely associated with Canadian cuisine, it’s seen more as a Quebecois specialty than a national dish.
Some Canadians debate whether maple syrup or butter tarts better reflect the country’s culinary identity.
Regardless, poutine’s popularity across provinces makes it a close contender.
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