Pork rillettes are a beloved French delicacy known for their rich flavor and luxurious texture. Traditionally made by slow-cooking pork in its own fat until it becomes tender and easily shredded, rillettes are then seasoned and cooled into a spreadable pâté. The result is a savory, melt-in-your-mouth treat that pairs perfectly with crusty bread, pickles, and a glass of wine.
Originating in the French countryside, pork rillettes were once a practical way to preserve meat. Today, they are a staple of charcuterie boards and gourmet menus around the world. The process of making rillettes may take time, but it’s simple and rewarding. Pork shoulder or belly is seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs, often thyme or bay leaf, then slowly cooked in lard until it becomes fall-apart tender. Once cooled slightly, the meat is shredded and packed into jars or ramekins, topped with a layer of fat to seal in freshness.
What makes rillettes so appealing is their versatility. Spread them on toasted baguette slices or serve alongside cornichons, mustard, and fresh radishes for a rustic appetizer. They also make an impressive addition to picnic baskets or festive platters.
Pork rillettes offer an indulgent yet traditional taste of French cuisine. While they are often available in specialty stores, making them at home allows you to customize the flavor to your liking and enjoy a truly artisanal experience. Whether for a dinner party, a holiday spread, or a quiet night in, pork rillettes are a timeless choice that brings the charm of French charcuterie straight to your table.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds pork belly skin removed
- 1 cup duck fat
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp thyme leaves fresh
- Salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C).
- Cut the pork belly into 2-inch cubes and place in a Dutch oven or oven-safe pot.
- Add the duck fat, minced garlic, and thyme leaves to the pot.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cover the pot and place in the preheated oven.
- Cook for 4 hours, until the pork is very tender and easily shreds.
- Remove the pot from the oven and let it cool slightly.
- Using two forks, shred the cooked pork in the pot, mixing it with the rendered fat.
- Transfer the pork and fat mixture to jars or ramekins.
- Press down lightly to remove any air pockets.
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or until chilled and set.
- Serve the pork rillettes on toasted bread or crackers, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Nutrition
Too much thyme, not enough yum. Don’t think I will be making this again.
Yum! 😋
I made this with my friends, and it was a total hit! We served it with some pickles and it was just perfect. Thank you!
I’m not sure about using that much fat. Seems a bit unhealthy? Can you use olive oil instead?
Wow, this recipe is amazing! I never thought I could make something so gourmet at home. The flavors are incredible! 5 stars!
Pork belly is good but I dunno about all this fat? It sounds kinda unhealthy. Are you sure this is a good recipe?
Not sure if the duck fat was really necessary. Coulda just used regular oil. Kinda greasy.
I think the duck fat is what gives it that rich flavor! Regular oil just wouldn’t cut it. 😊
This is an amazing recipe! I made it for a dinner party and everyone loved it. The flavor was just perfect.
Pork rillettes? More like pork raw-lets! Mine didn’t set properly and tasted weird, help!!
It could be that you didn’t let it cool long enough before refrigerating. The chilling is super important for it to set properly! Don’t give up!
Absolutely delicious! I used a bit more thyme and it turned out perfect. Will make again!
I dunno, seems like a lot of fat. Isn’t pork belly already greasy enough? 🤔
Glad you enjoyed it! Thyme really adds a nice flavor. I’m definitely trying that next time!
Mixed results. Wasn’t a fan of the fats. Made me feel kinda icky after eating.
This looks way too complicated. I just wanted a simple pork dish. Maybe I’ll try it if I have more time, but right now, no thanks.
I get what you mean! It does sound a bit much, but trust me, the flavor is totally worth it if you ever have the time!
So easy! I just threw everything in the pot and it turned out delicious. Will definitely make again!
I can’t believe how simple this was! I’m no chef, but it came out great. Thanks for sharing the recipe!
I tried making this but it didn’t turn out like yours. Are you sure the cooking time is right? Mine was a bit dry.
I thought rillettes was a French cat food 😅. Not bad, but I think my cats like the flavor better!
Where do I even find duck fat? Isn’t that expensive? I might just stick with regular pork or something easier.
You can find duck fat in specialty grocery stores or online, but it can be pricey. However, using pork fat is definitely a more budget-friendly option! You do you!
Nah, it ain’t that hard to find, just look in the cooking oil section. Duck fat might cost a bit, but it’s worth it for flavor! Just try to be adventurous!
Pork belly? More like pork belly-great! Haha! Can’t get enough!
Pork belly is too fatty for me. I prefer lean meat. But I guess this rillettes thing might be good for others.
Haha, love it! Pork belly is the best! Can’t believe how tender it turns out. Definitely trying this recipe next! 🐖👍
My mom makes this with chicken. Is it better? 🤔
This recipe is the bomb! I served it at a party and everyone loved it! Yum!