Pâtétaining:
Back to the Basics: Everything You Need to Know About Pâté
It's not uncommon to feel overwhelmed when beginning to learn about a new cuisine, but you should never let that uncertainty keep you from embracing something new.
Perhaps you sampled a delicious pâté at a holiday get together, stumbled upon a tempting slice while at your local grocery store, or have simply heard about it for so long you've decided to try it out for yourself. Never fear - here at Alexian, pâté is our passion and we take pride in educating our customers on the delightful ins and outs of our world.
Lesson I: What is Pâté?
Simply put, pâté (pronounce PAH-TAY) is French for "paste." It's most basic definition is as follows: "pâté is a mixture of cooked ground meat, liver, liquor, and fat minced into a spreadable paste."
While traditionally served baked into a crust, the modern version often comes in a slice, ready for you to create sumptuous appetizers, breakfasts, sandwiches and dinners.
A pâté often contains chicken, pork, duck, goose, or other game and common additions include vegetables, herbs, spices, and either wine or brandy (often cognac or sherry). Pâté can be served either hot or cold, but it is considered best enjoyed at room temperature.
Lesson II: The Terminology
Each pâté has its own distinct personality, and each Alexian pâté is prepared with our European, time-honored family recipes to encompass a range of consistencies, flavor profiles and meats. We offer a wide selection - ranging from vegan varieties to traditional pâtés. Here's how to know what to expect:
Terrine: A terrine is a type of cooking pan, similar in nature to a meatloaf pan. The term is also used to describe foods which are cooked in these pans, typically coarse-textured pâtés. Terrines can be made of many things, including vegetables! Alexian vegetable and vegan terrines are a perfect example.
Mousse: A mousse is a smooth and creamy pâté, perfect for spreading onto a baguette.
Country Style: Our country style pâtés are traditional, rustic pâtés that are coarse in texture and bold in flavor.
Lesson III: Enjoying Your Pâté
As we've mentioned just before, pâtés come in a wide range of varieties. The good news? There's a pâté for everyone. The (not really bad at all) news? You might have to try a few types and recipes to find your go-to favorite.
Our pâtés can be enjoyed simply: spread on toast points with marmalade or chutney, served cubed on toothpicks or skewers, or added to your favorite sandwich, wrap, or salad.
Our pâté can also be enjoyed in imaginative and exotic creations such as Vietnamese Bahn Mis, Earthy Mushroom-stuffed raviolis or grown-up grilled cheeses. For these recipes and more inspiration, please visit: A Week of Meals with Alexian and Around the World with Alexian.
Do you still have questions? Feel free to reach out to us anytime via Facebook or email!