If Marilyn makes you cretons, you can eat them with your eyes closed. I've known Marilyn since 2017, and every time we visit her or go to the grocery store, we never miss a chance for her to thoroughly analyze every creton she sees or tastes. — Francois

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The authentic taste of Quebec shines through in this traditional cretons recipe, a classic of Quebec cuisine. Prized for their rich texture and delicate flavor, cretons are a staple for breakfasts and quick 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 finely minced pork harmonizes perfectly with spices and the sweetness of onion. Prepared with care and patience, our cretons offer an unforgettable taste experience, especially when paired with our honey mustard or our maple butter Dijon mustard. Perfect for a hearty breakfast, these cretons are also a favorite 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 a journey to the heart of Quebec's 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	Values
⏱️ Preparation time	15 minutes
🍳 Cooking time	1 hour
⏲️ Total time	1 hour 15 minutes
🔧 Difficulty level	Easy
🍽️ Portions	6 people
🔥 Calories (approximate)	350 per serving

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

Instructions

Mix the minced pork and onion in a large saucepan. Cook over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs, allspice, and milk. Mix well. Reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally. If the mixture becomes too dry, add a little more milk. Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Blend lightly for a smooth texture, if desired. Transfer the cretons into one or more containers and let them cool completely. Cover and refrigerate. Serve cold on bread or toast, accompanied by honey mustard or Dijon mustard with maple butter.

Serve cold on bread or toast, accompanied by honey mustard or Dijon mustard with maple butter.

Nutritional Information per Serving
Nutrient	Quantity
Calories	350 kcal
Proteins	18 g
Carbohydrates	25 g
Lipids	15 g
Fibers	3 g
Sodium	650 mg

Products mentioned in this recipe

Potential questions

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

Q: How long can cretons be stored? A: Cretons can be stored in the refrigerator for about a week in an airtight container.

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

Q: Are cretons a healthy option? A: Cretons can be part of a balanced diet when eaten in moderation. Their protein content makes them a nutritious choice, especially when served with healthy sides like whole-wheat bread or vegetables.

Q: Can the spices in this recipe be varied? A: Absolutely. Although the classic recipe uses allspice, you can experiment with other spices like nutmeg, cloves, or ginger to personalize the flavor.

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

🔍 Did you know? The evolution of creton consumption in Quebec over the years
Year	Average consumption per household (kg)	Rate of increase
2000	2.1 kg
2010	2.5 kg
2020	3.0 kg
The consumption of cretons continues to increase each decade with growing popularity in Quebec households.