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This classic Quebec pork spread is great for a quick breakfast or tasty snack. Letting it sit makes the flavors really come together so you get the best taste.
I’ve made this ever since my Quebec grandma passed her version down to me. Every time I spread it on some toast in the morning, I’m right back in my childhood for a second.
Delicious Ingredients
- 60 ml plain breadcrumbs: These thicken things up just right.
- Salt and pepper: Go by what you like.
- 1 small pinch allspice: This adds a soft, sweet note.
- 1 small pinch ground clove: You can’t skip this—it’s key to the flavor.
- 1 clove garlic, finely chopped: Toss in more if you want it punchy.
- 1 finely diced onion: Gives the mix a mellow sweetness.
- 250 ml whole milk: Makes it rich and creamy, helps it bind.
- 450 grams ground pork: Look for something with good fat, not too lean.
Step-by-Step Simple Instructions
- Chill and develop flavors:
- Spoon everything into a sealed container and let it cool first, then pop it in the fridge. The taste just gets better after a full day in there.
- Finish it up:
- Stir in the breadcrumbs, let it bubble for about 10 more minutes. It’ll thicken right up. Season until you’re happy.
- Easy simmer:
- Drop the heat real low and let it cook for about an hour, stirring every now and then so nothing burns. You want the meat to completely fall apart and the liquid to cook down a lot.
- Get it cooking:
- Put the pork, spices, garlic, onion, and milk into a big pot on medium. Stir so it all mixes together well.
- Prep the basics:
- Chop up your garlic and onion nice and small so they melt right into everything at the end.
The charm here is keeping things truly traditional. Where I’m from, no one thinks of breakfast without mentioning this pork spread. Even my kids—born way outside Quebec—look forward to a bite whenever we get together.
Storage and How to Serve
Stick a very thin layer of oil on top or press parchment right onto the surface before sealing your container. That way, it'll stay fresh up to ten days in the fridge. Want it to last even longer? Freeze single portions and they’re good for about three months.
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Regional Twists
Depending on what part of Quebec you’re in, there are tons of little takes on this dish. Some toss in a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth, others add fresh sage. Families in the east sometimes splash a bit of maple syrup in for a mellow sweet kick.
Perfect Pairings
Enjoy this on hearty country bread, lightly toasted, with zippy pickles to balance the flavors. For a real Quebec-style brunch, serve with baked beans or eggs. A dab of Dijon mustard really brightens the taste, too.
Culinary Backstory
This pork spread started with thrifty Quebec cooks who wasted nothing. It was a way to hang on to meat for a while and make use of every bit after fall butchering. Now, it’s a big part of local pride and you’ll spot it everywhere in Quebec shops and markets.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What goes well with pork cretons toast?
Pork cretons toast pairs great with pickles, a green salad, or fresh veggies for a light side dish.
- → Can I use other meat besides pork?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken works as a lighter substitute.
- → How should pork cretons be stored?
Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days.
- → Can cretons be frozen?
Yes, they freeze well! Just store them in a freezer-safe container.
- → Where do cretons come from?
Cretons are a traditional delicacy from Quebec, often served on toast for breakfast.