Rillettes

Rillettes is a traditional French spread made by slow-cooking meat (often pork, duck, or rabbit) in its own fat until it becomes tender enough to shred and mix back into the rendered fat, creating a rich, potted paste. It's typically seasoned with salt, pepper, and sometimes herbs or spices, then chilled until it sets. This rustic preparation originated in the Loire Valley and is a staple of French charcuterie.

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🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

Rillettes is very high in fat (due to the cooking method and added fat), moderate in protein, and contains virtually no carbohydrates. A typical 2-tablespoon serving provides around 100-150 calories, with key nutrients including protein from the meat and fat-soluble vitamins like A and D if made with duck or pork liver.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	180 kcal
Protein	4 g
Carbs	0 g
Fat	18 g
Fiber	0 g
Sugar	0 g
Sodium	320 mg
Sodium	320 mg
Potassium	85 mg
Phosphorus	55 mg
Zinc	0.8 mg
Iron	0.4 mg
Niacin (B3)	1.2 mg
Vitamin B12	0.3 mcg
Selenium	5 mcg

Per 1/4 cup (56 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, rillettes is a prime example of historic food preservation techniques, as the layer of fat acts as a natural seal against spoilage. Nutritionally, while calorie-dense, it's a concentrated source of protein and energy, making it a traditional high-fat, low-carb option in French cuisine.