A Practical Guide to Cheese Curds
Did you know that Cheese Curds have been around since the 12th century? These fresh, squeaky morsels are a staple wherever Cheddar is made and have grown into a treasured ingredient with deep culinary roots. 1 Today, Cheese Curds are making their mark on menus worldwide, offering endless opportunities for innovation.
From Classic Poutine to On-Trend Menus
Cheese Curds are the heart and soul of Quebec’s most iconic dish, poutine. Their squeaky texture and fresh, creamy taste make them indispensable for creating this classic Canadian comfort food.
Today, Cheese Curds are popping up everywhere—from classy gastropubs to lively sports bars—adding a unique twist to modern dishes. Whether marinated, fried, or served fresh, they are a crowd-pleasing addition ready to pair with any beverage or enhance any menu item.
Endless Possibilities for Poutine and Beyond
The demand for innovative flavours is rising, with poutine as an appetizer growing by an impressive 49%.2 Given their endless possible uses, Cheese Curds can be the star of traditional or creative poutine dishes, whether served as a main course or a shareable starter.
Versatility and Quality
Our Cheese Curds are offered in refrigerated, frozen, and IQF (individually quick frozen) formats, as well as “Fresh of the Day” in Quebec. Available in a range of sizes—from extra small to large—and packaged in bulk or portion-controlled formats, they are easy to incorporate into any kitchen.
Firm yet elastic, Cheese Curds have a smooth white surface, a mild flavour with a milky and creamy aroma, and a slightly flaky texture that delivers a delightful squeak.
Pair Cheese Curds with Creative Dishes
Cheese Curds are the perfect companion to innovative menu creations. From indulgent classics like a Buffalo Chicken Wing Poutine to playful mashups such as a Cheeseburger Poutine, they bring a creamy, squeaky twist to every dish.
Looking for a show-stopping pizza option? Try a Poutine Pizza, where Cheese Curds take centre stage alongside other cheeses. For veggie-forward offerings, elevate your menu with dishes like a Korean Fried Cauliflower Poutine, where the curds complement bold, spicy flavours with their delicate creaminess.
Not Just for Poutine
Cheese Curds are not limited to poutine—they can also upgrade soups, pizzas, salads, and more. Their creamy, mild flavour makes them a versatile choice for chefs looking to innovate.
Stay Inspired
Ready to explore more ways to incorporate Cheese Curds into your menu?
Subscribe to our À LA CARTE newsletter for the latest culinary trends, recipes, and inspiration tailored to foodservice professionals.
1 Source: Pascale Lévesque, La route du fromage en grains, 2021
2 Source: Technomic 2023, Flavor Consumer Trend Report
