rillettes

American  

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

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.

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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

Moisan, a gourmet grocery founded in 1871, for edible Quebecois souvenirs and imported French treats, such as maple candy and jars of pork rillettes.

From Washington Post • Sep. 16, 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