As foodies nationwide are preparing to scarf heaping bowls of cheese curds, gravy and crispy french fries ahead of La Poutine Week, Victoria's own MeeT on Blanshard is being lauded for its vegan take on the classic Quebecois dish.

People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) has recognized the Hillside Avenue eatery for its creative, Indian-inspired meat-and-dairy-free poutine. With kachumber vegetables, cilantro and vegan gravy, MeeT's butter chikkin poutine substitutes cheese curds with dairy-free mozza. Regina, Winnipeg, St. John's and Kelowna are also home to great vegan poutines, according to the animal rights organization.

"ItB次元官网网址檚 all gravy at MeeT, which crafted a sumptuous cow- and chicken-friendly Indian-style poutine that curdB次元官网网址檔B次元官网网址檛 be beat,B次元官网网址� PETA's president Ingrid Newkirk said in a news release. B次元官网网址淓very one of these delicious vegan versions of a classic Canadian comfort food are earning a PETA nod, satisfying diners and leaving animals in peace B次元官网网址� itB次元官网网址檚 a win-win-win.B次元官网网址�

PETA will deliver MeeT, and the other four Canadian restaurants, a framed "best vegan poutine" certificate B次元官网网址� part of its drive to raise awareness about the benefits of veganism.

"Every person who goes vegan saves the lives of nearly 200 animals each year and reduces their own risk of developing heart disease and cancer," PETA said in the same news release.