rillettes

American  

[ri-lets, ree-yet] / rɪˈlɛts, riˈjɛt /

noun

(used with a singular or plural verb)

1. an appetizer made usually of pork or goose meat that is diced, seasoned, cooked, and then pounded or ground to the consistency of a spread.

---

Etymology

Origin of rillettes

Borrowed into English from French around 1885–90

Example Sentences

The honor of the pre-dinner nosh, meanwhile, usually falls to charcuterie, a category of cooked or cured meat like dry-aged ham, potted pâté, or rillettes.

From Salon • Feb. 20, 2023

The meaty spread embraces duck rillettes, head cheese made from delicious pig parts and hinting of star anise, and caramelized onions, which are dark, sticky and swollen with reduced balsamic vinegar.

From Washington Post • Jul. 22, 2021

My first encounter with salmon rillettes was my last.

From Washington Post • Jan. 7, 2020

Rabbit and duck rillettes, onion soup with lardons tucked inside, classic escargots, steak frites, boudin blanc, halibut with beurre blanc, and profiteroles speak the language of a room done with red leather banquettes and mirrors.

From New York Times • Dec. 3, 2019

The culinary realm is always busily engaged preparing pat�s and galantines, rillettes and sausages.

From With Those Who Wait by Huard, Frances Wilson