Classic Quebec Cretons in 5 Ingredients: Simplicity and Tradition

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The authentic taste of Quebec is revealed in this traditional recipe for cretons, a classic of Quebec cuisine. Cretons, appreciated for their rich texture and delicate flavor, are a must-have for breakfasts and on-the-go snacks. Our recipe stands out for its simplicity, using only five main ingredients.

This traditional preparation is a tribute to the flavors of yesteryear, where the finely chopped pork harmonizes perfectly with the spices and sweetness of the onion. Cooked with care and patience, our cretons offer an unforgettable taste experience, especially when accompanied by our honey mustard or our Dijon mustard with maple butter. Perfect for a nourishing breakfast, these cretons are also a favorite choice with children and make excellent nutritious sandwiches for lunches. They are ideal for a Sunday brunch or as a topping on your toast.

Embark on the heart of Quebec heritage with these classic cretons, a simple and tasty recipe that celebrates the pleasures of the table and the traditions of a cuisine rich in history.

🔍 Information	Details
⏱️ Preparation time	15 minutes
🍳 Cooking time	1 hour
⏲️ Total time	1 hour 15 minutes
🔧 Difficulty level	Easy
🍽️ Servings	6 persons
🔥 Calories (approximate)	350 per serving

Ingredients :

• 454 grams (or one pound) ground pork
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 teaspoon of all-spice
• 1 cup of milk
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions :

1. Combine ground pork and onion in a large saucepan. Cook over medium heat.
2. Add the breadcrumbs, all-spice, and milk. Mix well.
3. Reduce heat and simmer covered for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
4. If the mixture becomes too dry, add a little more milk.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Mix lightly for a uniform texture, if desired.
6. Transfer the cretons to one or more containers and let cool completely.
7. Cover and refrigerate .
8. Serve cold on bread or toast, accompanied by honey mustard or Dijon mustard with maple butter.

Potential Questions

Q: Can a type of meat other than pork be used for this recipe? A: Traditionally, cretons are made with ground pork, but you can experiment with other types of meat like ground chicken or turkey for a lighter version.

Q: How long can greaves be kept? A: Cretons will keep in the refrigerator for about a week in an airtight container.

Q: Can you freeze cretons? A: Yes, cretons freeze well. Place them in an airtight container and they can be stored in the freezer for several months.

Q: Are greaves a healthy option? A: Cretons can be part of a balanced diet when consumed in moderation. Their protein content makes them a nourishing choice, especially if you serve them with healthy sides like whole-wheat bread or vegetables.

Q: Can we vary the spices in this recipe? A: Absolutely. Although the classic recipe uses all-spice, you can experiment with other spices like nutmeg, cloves or ginger to customize the taste.

Q: What type of bread is recommended to serve with cretons? A: Cretons go well with various types of bread. Rye bread, wholemeal bread, or even a toasted bagel can be great choices.