Classic Canadian Cretons

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) ground pork 1 lb (450g) ground pork
• 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup (60ml) water 1/4 cup (60ml) water
• 1/4 cup (60ml) milk 1/4 cup (60ml) milk
• 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs 2 tablespoons breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon maple syrup 1 tablespoon maple syrup
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 250 kcal / 1046 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 18g, 6g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 5g, 2g
• Protein: 17g
• Fiber: 1g
• Salt: 0.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large skillet, cook the ground pork over medium heat until browned.
2. 2.
   Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until the onion is translucent.
3. 3.
   Stir in the water, milk, breadcrumbs, maple syrup, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
4. 4.
   Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors meld together.
5. 5.
   Remove from heat and let it cool slightly.
6. 6.
   Transfer the mixture to a food processor and blend until smooth.
7. 7.
   Pour the Cretons into a jar or container and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the flavors to develop.
8. 8.
   Serve chilled or at room temperature, spread on toast or crackers.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Ground pork — Choose lean ground pork for a healthier option. If desired, you can substitute it with ground turkey or chicken.
• Maple syrup — Opt for pure maple syrup to achieve the authentic Canadian flavor.

Tips & Tricks

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
• Customize the texture by blending the Cretons for a shorter or longer duration, depending on your preference.
• Serve with pickles or sliced tomatoes for a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.

Serving advice

Serve Cretons on freshly toasted baguette slices or crackers for a delightful appetizer or breakfast treat. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for an added touch of freshness.

Presentation advice

Transfer the Cretons to a decorative jar or ramekin for an elegant presentation. Sprinkle a pinch of ground cinnamon on top for a visually appealing finish.