
I recently decided to make a California version of my Poutine recipe. While not authentic, it is absolutely delicious!
The original Poutine originated in Quebec, Canada in the late 70s or early 80s. It consisted of French Fries, Cheese Curds and Chicken Gravy.
Since then dozens, if not hundreds of variations on this classic Canadian delicacy have popped up all over the world.

The only thing this poutine recipe has in common with the original are the french fries. Instead of the chicken gravy we have a creamy special sauce.
Instead of the cheese curds I decided to use queso fresco which is a great Mexican cheese that easily crumbles.

The other toppings I include are typical ingredients you find in Mexican food but you can easily substitute or add additional ingredients to your liking. Next time I make this recipe I might add some pickled Jalapeños.

How to Pick the Perfect Avocado
Choosing the wrong avocado will ruin your dish. Especially when the avocado is the main ingredient like in Guacamole. Basically, you want a perfectly ripe Avocado. This is a great article on How to Select the Perfect Avocado.
How to Cut an Avocado (Video)
If you struggle with cutting and coring avocados, this video tutorial is for you. This is an important skill to learn if you often make guacamole or any other type of Mexican Food.
Tips
- If you own an Air Fryer you can use that to make your fries by following my Air Fryer French Fries recipe. Super easy!
Buttermilk Substitution
If you don’t have Buttermilk on hand, you can use this trick as a substitute: Add one tablespoon of lemon juice to a measuring cup. Add milk and fill to the 1 cup measurement line. Stir the mixture together and let sit for 5 minutes. Since this recipe calls for 1/2 cup you will need to adjust accordingly.
Another option is to use a cultured buttermilk blend. All you need to do is add water. I was very skeptical at first but in a pinch it works great!

Gather your Ingredients
You will need the following ingredients to make this California Poutine recipe (see recipe card for quantities): Frozen French Fries, Mayonnaise, Buttermilk, Sour Cream, Garlic Cloves, Onion Powder, Fresh Lemon Juice, Salt, Pepper, Roma Tomatoes, Queso Fresco, Avocado, Green Onions and Fresh Cilantro.
How to Make California Poutine
- Cook the fries using your preferred method according to the directions on the package.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, buttermilk, sour cream, garlic, onion powder and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
- Place the fries in a serving bowl. Top the fries with tomatoes, green onions and queso fresco.
- Drizzle the special sauce over the french fry mixture and top with avocados and cilantro.
More Recipe Ideas
Printable Recipe Card

California Poutine
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Ingredients
- 28 oz Frozen French Fries, restaurant style
Special Sauce
- â…“ cup Mayonnaise
- â…“ cup Buttermilk
- â…“ cup Sour Cream
- 2 Tsp Garlic Cloves, minced
- 1 Tsp Onion Powder
- 2 Tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice
- Salt and Pepper, to taste
Toppings
- 3 medium Roma Tomatoes, cored and chopped
- 2 oz Queso Fresco, crumbled
- ½ ripe Avocado, pitted, peeled and sliced
- 4 Green Onions, chopped
- 2 Tbsp Fresh Cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Cook the fries using your preferred method according to the directions on the package.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise, buttermilk, sour cream, garlic, onion powder and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
- Place the fries in a serving bowl. Sprinkle the tomatoes, green onions and queso fresco over the fries.
- Drizzle the special sauce over the french fry mixture and top with avocados and cilantro.
I loved this Poutine. The mexican cheese gave it a different flavour than the ordinary one, but was a great change.