Spiced Country Pâté

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Spiced Country Pâté.

1. Step 1

   To start, let’s create a delightful spice blend that will elevate your dish.

2. Step 2

   In a small bowl, mix together ground cloves, nutmeg, ginger, and a pinch of cayenne pepper.

3. Step 3

   This aromatic combination will add a warm depth to your recipe.

4. Step 4

   Next, grab a large bowl and combine the pork shoulder, duck meat, chopped bacon, chicken livers, onion, shallot, parsley, cognac, salt, garlic, black pepper, and 3/4 teaspoon of your spice mixture along with pink curing salt.

5. Step 5

   Mix everything thoroughly until well blended, then cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for about two hours.

6. Step 6

   This resting time allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

7. Step 7

   While the meat mixture is chilling, prepare a creamy binder.

8. Step 8

   In another bowl, whisk together cream, bread crumbs, and eggs until the mixture is smooth and well combined.

9. Step 9

   Once your meat mixture has chilled, it’s time to make the grinding process easier.

10. Step 10

    Transfer the meat mixture to a rimmed baking sheet lined with a silicone mat or parchment paper and pop it in the freezer for 15 to 20 minutes.

11. Step 11

    This will firm it up nicely.

12. Step 12

    Now, using the meat grinder attachment of your stand mixer, grind the chilled meat mixture into a bowl.

13. Step 13

    Once ground, stir in dried cherries and pistachios for a delightful burst of flavor and texture.

14. Step 14

    Gently fold in the cream mixture until everything is just combined—be careful not to overmix.

15. Step 15

    Next, let’s prepare the loaf pan.

16. Step 16

    Line a 9x5-inch loaf pan with bacon strips, allowing the ends to hang over the edges.

17. Step 17

    Trim the strips as necessary to fit snugly.

18. Step 18

    Now, fill the pan with your ground meat mixture, smoothing the top for an even finish.

19. Step 19

    Fold the overhanging bacon strips over the top, then place a piece of parchment paper on top and wrap the entire pan tightly with heavy-duty aluminum foil.

20. Step 20

    Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

21. Step 21

    While it’s heating, place the loaf pan in a deep pot or Dutch oven and pour in hot tap water until it reaches halfway up the sides of the pan.

22. Step 22

    Cover the pot to keep the moisture in.

23. Step 23

    Bake in the preheated oven until an instant-read thermometer inserted into the center reads 155°F (68°C), which should take about 1 hour and 45 minutes to 2 hours.

24. Step 24

    Once your pâté is done, carefully transfer the pan to a paper towel-lined surface to absorb any excess moisture.

25. Step 25

    If the mixture has risen above the pan, gently press it down with a heavy pan.

26. Step 26

    Remove the aluminum foil but keep the parchment paper on top.

27. Step 27

    Place the pan in a paper towel-lined baking dish for added moisture absorption.

28. Step 28

    For a perfect finish, cut a piece of cardboard slightly smaller than the top of the pan, wrap it in aluminum foil, and place it on the parchment paper.

29. Step 29

    Press down with weights, like canned food, to help compress the pâté.

30. Step 30

    Now, refrigerate it for at least 8 hours to chill and set.

31. Step 31

    When you’re ready to unmold your creation, dip the mold into a bowl of very hot water for just 1 to 2 seconds.

32. Step 32

    Carefully turn it out onto a paper towel-lined dish and chill it again before slicing.

33. Step 33

    Enjoy the rich flavors and textures of your homemade pâté, perfect for sharing with friends and family!.