Cretons

Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs ground pork, with fat
• 1 cup water
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup fine breadcrumbs
• 1/2 tsp ground cloves
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp ground allspice
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp chopped parsley

Before you cook

• Finely dice the onion and mince the garlic.

Steps

1. Combine the ground pork and water in a heavy saucepan over medium heat, breaking the meat up with a spoon.
2. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
3. Add the onion and garlic and stir to combine.
4. Cover and simmer gently for 45 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes, until the pork is very soft and starting to break down.
5. Stir in the breadcrumbs, cloves, cinnamon, allspice, salt, and pepper.
6. Continue simmering uncovered for 20 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture is thick and spreadable with no standing liquid.
7. Stir in the parsley and adjust the seasoning to taste.
8. Mash the mixture lightly with a fork or potato masher for a smoother, more spreadable texture.
9. Spoon into small containers or a loaf pan, cover, and refrigerate for at least 4 hours until firm.
10. Serve cold or at room temperature, spread thickly on buttered toast.