Celebrate classic Canadian cuisine – with a cultural twist

shutterstock_108091436With Canada Day just around the corner, it’s time to celebrate all things Canadian. This includes lakeside cottaging, setting off fireworks and indulging in classic Canuck cuisine – like poutine.

Asour country’s unofficial national dish, delicious poutinetakes centre stage at festivals and parades across the country every Canada Day weekend.

And it’s no wonder Canadians are crazy about poutine. Traditionally prepared, poutine consists of hand-cut fries smothered in rich gravy and cheese curds for a delicacy that appeals to both food truck fanatics and high-brow foodies alike.

For people who are lactose-intolerant or vegan, poutine is usuallyoff limits. However, with some simple modifications to a standard poutine recipe, the dish can easily be madedairy andmeat-free.

The keyis findinga cheese alternative that melts perfectlyto providethe ooey-gooey goodness of an authentic poutine experience. With dairy-free Toffuti Slices readily available at more than 1,500 stores across Canada, this is easy.

Made from soy-based ingredients, Toffuti Slices come in two flavours: mozzarella or American style. The slices, coupled with a store-bought or homemade vegan gravy and fresh fries or potato wedges,tasteas good as the real thing.

Part of the joy of poutineis adding decadent ingredients into the mix for unique flavour combinations.

This long weekend, consider the following internationally-inspired ingredients to liven up your poutine. After all, our country’s cultural diversity is one of  many things to celebrate on Canada Day.

A French fry fiesta

Add your favourite taco ingredients to your poutine, including salsa, guacamole and veggie ground or real beef. Don’t forget a dollop of Sour Supreme for a fiesta your taste buds will enjoy.

East meets West

For a fusion of flavours, enjoy your favourite non-dairy, Indian curry and vegetables on a bed of fries rather than rice. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro.

Viva Italia

For the perfect comfort food combination, lightlysauté onions, mushrooms, peppers and veggie or meat sausage, and serve with a silky marinara instead of gravy. Don’t forget to add Tofutti Slices for a true Italian taste.

As well as your favourite Toffuti products, what are your go-to poutine toppings?