Gorton

Cook: 480 min

Gorton is a hearty, spiced pork spread with onion and warm spices, perfect for sandwiches, picnics, or as a savory snack for those who enjoy bold flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 2 lb. ground pork
  • 1/4 c. lard
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 1 to 1 1/2 qt. water
  • 2 tsp. cinnamon
  • 1 1/4 tsp. cloves, ground
  • 1 tsp. salt

Instructions

  1. Place all ingredients in a large saucepan with a cover.
  2. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 6 to 8 hours, until all onion is dissolved and water is gone.
  3. Place mixture in bowls and refrigerate until firm.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider using duck fat instead of lard. If you prefer a milder taste, reduce the amount of cinnamon and cloves. Ensure to chop the onion finely so it dissolves completely during cooking. If necessary, add more water gradually during simmering to prevent sticking. This recipe is similar to traditional Pork recipes, enhancing its versatility.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Gorton in bowls as a hearty main dish. It pairs well with crusty bread or over rice to soak up the flavors. For a complete meal, consider a side of sautéed greens or a fresh salad. This dish complements breakfast options like Ma Gillie'S Pokeweed And Scrambled Eggs, making it versatile for any time of day.

Storage & Reheating

Allow the Gorton to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to a week. For longer storage, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. To reheat, warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Gorton contains roughly 658 calories, with 47g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (94% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 769mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).

658 kcal 33% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 47.2g 94% DV
Total Fat 41.3g 53% DV
Carbs 21.4g 8% DV
Fiber 1.4g 5% DV
Sugar 8g 16% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 768.6mg 33% DV
Potassium 902.2mg 19% DV
Cholesterol 146.5mg 49% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 7.1mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 14.2mg 16% DV
Vitamin D 1.2mcg 6% DV
Calcium 96.9mg 7% DV
Iron 2.5mg 14% DV
Diet fit High-protein

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?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef or chicken for the ground pork if desired. However, this will change the flavor profile slightly. Ensure that the meat is cooked through and tender during the long simmering process, as different meats may have varying cooking times.

What can I do if the mixture is too watery?

If the Gorton turns out too watery, continue to simmer uncovered until excess liquid evaporates. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can thicken it by adding a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water, stirring until it reaches your desired consistency.

Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Absolutely! Gorton freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating for best results, ensuring the texture and flavor remain intact.

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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