Traditional Quebecois Pork Cretons

Name: Traditional Quebecois Pork Cretons
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 90 min
Total time: 160 min
Yield: 10 servings
Cuisine: Quebecois
Ingredients: 500 g ground pork; 1 cup whole milk; 1 cup chicken broth (low sodium); 1 medium onion (finely chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 1 tsp ground cloves; 1 tsp ground cinnamon; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp ground pepper; 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg

160 min 10 servings Medium

All Recipes

Savoury and spiced pork cretons, a Quebecois favourite for breakfast or snack.

Prep

10 min

Cook

90 min

Total

160 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Cretons de porc is a beloved Quebecois dish traditionally served for breakfast. This spreadable pork dish is similar to a pâté but with a coarse texture and a rich, spiced flavour. It's a staple in many Quebec households, enjoyed on toast or fresh bread. The origins of cretons date back to the resourceful cooking style of early settlers, making use of readily available ingredients like pork and spices. The recipe has been passed down through generations, maintaining its place as a comforting and hearty addition to any meal.

Instructions

Prepare the ingredients

Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Gather all spices and measure them out.

Pro tip: Pre-measuring spices makes the cooking process smoother.

Combine main ingredients

In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the ground pork, milk, chicken broth, onion, and garlic.

Pro tip: Use a wooden spoon to break up the pork while it cooks.

Cook the mixture

Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cook uncovered for 1 hour, stirring occasionally. Use a meat thermometer to check that the pork has reached an internal temperature of 145°F / 63°C, inserting the probe into the thickest part of the mixture. Once it reaches this temperature, let it rest for 3 minutes.

Pro tip: Ensure the mixture does not boil vigorously; it should gently simmer.

Add spices

Stir in the ground cloves, cinnamon, salt, pepper, and nutmeg. Continue cooking for another 30 minutes.

Pro tip: Adjust seasoning according to taste after the mixture has cooked down.

Check consistency

The mixture should be thick and spreadable. If too liquid, continue to simmer until it reaches the desired consistency.

Pro tip: The mixture will firm up further as it cools.

Cool and store

Transfer the cretons to a container and allow to cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 1 hour.

Pro tip: Cooling allows flavours to meld and improves spreadability.

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Tips & Tricks

Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent sticking.
Adjust spicing to taste; add more cloves for a stronger flavour.
Cretons can be stored in the fridge for up to a week.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make homemade pork cretons?

To make homemade pork cretons, simmer ground pork with milk, broth, onions, garlic, and spices until thick and spreadable.

How long do cretons last in the fridge?

Cretons can be stored in the refrigerator for up to one week in an airtight container.

Can I freeze cretons?

Yes, cretons freeze well. Store them in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to three months.

What are cretons made of?

Cretons are made from ground pork, milk, broth, onions, garlic, and spices such as cloves and cinnamon.

Can I use something other than pork?

While traditional cretons use pork, you can substitute with ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version.

Serving Suggestions

Cretons are best served cold, spread thickly on crusty bread or toast. Pair them with pickles or mustard for an additional tang, or enjoy them alongside a hot cup of coffee for a classic Quebecois breakfast. To make ahead, prepare the cretons and refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to a week. They also freeze well, so consider making a larger batch and storing portions for later enjoyment.