Poutine, that gooey, calorie-packed Canadian staple has become a unifying theme on menus across Toronto's culturally diverse dining scene - no matter if it's a ramen joint, Caribbean bistro, or, in this instance, a South American snack bar.

Find a Latin rendition at Mata Petisco Bar in Parkdale, where the messy comfort food is billed as Beef Cheek Poutine ($14).

Elegantly plated, this poutine is built on a base of golden cassava frites (in lieu of potatoes), then piled with proper cheese curds, tender torn bits of smoked beef cheek, and finally a blanket of rich, thickened demi glace.

The cultural exchange is happening in both directions, too. Mata Petisco Bar co-owner, Felipe Faccioli notes that there's nothing really akin to poutine in his native Brazil, but there is at least one eatery, Pecado de Bom, that's introducing a little Canadian culture to San Paulo.

Thanks to IBM for sponsoring this post. IBM Watson's cognitive system helps chefs create new recipes and helps businesses cook up new ideas.

Know of any Toronto restaurants doing interesting takes on poutine? Let us know in the comments.