Creton

Cook: 120 min Cuisine: Canadian

Creton is a rich, savory pork spread with a smooth, pâté-like texture, flavored with onions and spices. Perfect for breakfast or snack, it pairs well with bread or crackers, offering comforting, hearty flavors that appeal to those who enjoy flavorful, traditional dishes.

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Ingredients

  • 2 lb. lean ground pork butt
  • 1 large onion
  • 1 Tbsp. salt
  • 1 tsp. pepper
  • 1/2 tsp. ground cloves

Instructions

  1. Cook pork and onion over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
  2. Add salt and pepper; continue cooking for about 2 hours.
  3. Add ground cloves in the last 15 minutes of cooking.
  4. Mash the mixture with a potato masher for a smooth texture.
  5. Ladle off excess grease after removing from heat.
  6. Once cooled and set, scrape off any remaining fat with a knife or spoon.

Tips & Substitutions

For a deeper flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a pinch of nutmeg along with the cloves. If ground pork is not available, you can substitute with lean ground turkey or chicken, but adjust cooking time as they may cook faster. Keep an eye on the mixture to avoid burning, especially during the last stages of cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Creton is traditionally served as a spread on bread or toast, making it a great choice for breakfast or brunch. Pair it with a side of pickles or fresh fruit for a balanced meal. It also complements dishes like (Hessen) Sauerkraut And Brats for a hearty dinner. Serve with a light salad or sliced vegetables for a refreshing contrast.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, you can freeze creton in portions. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through. You can also microwave it, but be sure to cover it to prevent it from drying out.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Creton contains roughly 142 calories, with 6g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (209% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (58% of the Daily Value), and iron (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. It also contributes 16g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

142 kcal 7% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.7g 11% DV
Total Fat 4.9g 6% DV
Carbs 29.8g 11% DV
Fiber 16.3g 58% DV
Sugar 5.2g 10% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 355.7mg 15% DV
Potassium 844.5mg 18% DV
Cholesterol 0.8mg

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 40.6mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 187.7mg 100% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 191.2mg 15% DV
Iron 4.1mg 23% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute lean ground turkey or chicken for the pork. However, the flavor profile will change slightly, and you may need to adjust the cooking time. Ensure that the meat is cooked thoroughly, and consider adding more spices to enhance the taste.

What can I do if my creton is too greasy?

If your creton turns out too greasy, let it cool and then refrigerate it. The fat will solidify on top, making it easy to remove with a spoon or knife. You can also try cooking it longer over low heat to render out more fat before mashing it.

How do I know when the creton is fully cooked?

The creton is fully cooked when the pork is no longer pink and has absorbed the flavors of the spices. It should be thick and spreadable. The long cooking time helps to develop its unique flavor, so ensure you follow the recommended cooking duration.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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