Classic Quebec Cretons in 5 Ingredients: Simplicity and Tradition

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 home or the grocery store, we never miss an in-depth analysis of every creton she sees or tastes. — Francois

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

This traditional preparation is a tribute to the flavors of yesteryear, where finely ground 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 maple butter Dijon mustard. Perfect for a nourishing breakfast, these cretons are also a favorite choice for 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 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) ground pork 1 medium onion, finely chopped 1 cup breadcrumbs 1 teaspoon of allspice 1 cup of milk Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

Combine ground pork and onion in a large saucepan. Cook over medium heat. Add the breadcrumbs, allspice, and milk. Mix well. Reduce 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 to one or more containers and let cool completely. Cover and refrigerate. Serve cold on bread or toast, accompanied by honey mustard or maple butter Dijon mustard.

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

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 you use a type of meat other than pork 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 you keep cretons? 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 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 if you serve them with healthy sides like whole grain bread or vegetables.

Q: Can you 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 pair well with a variety of breads. Rye bread, whole grain bread, or even a toasted bagel can be great 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 homes.