This is sheer elegance in its simplicity. You'll need about a box of coarse salt for an oyster bed.
Seasoning is key to a good pâté. This recipe may seem to have a lot of salt, pepper and spices, but the flavours mellow as the pâté cures. Serve with Dijon mustard, baguette slices and cornichons for an authentic French experience.
Serving this pitcher punch is a great way to welcome guests or to get the party started.
The recipe given here is from my banquet book so will serve around 40-50 people, adjust as needed. This pate is quite rich so not much is needed. Best way to serve is to use ice cream scoop or tablespoon and make long diagonal curves. Serve with raspberry coulee.
For a pretty touch, serve this sinfully smooth party-size spread garnished with thin slices of apple and sprigs of fresh basil. It's also wonderful piped onto Belgian endive leaves.
This inspiration for this dish was to take duck, an ingredient found in traditional french cuisine, and to find a way to prepare and interpret it using other common Canadian ingredients, in a manner that is simpler, less time consuming and just as flavourful. After layering the duck with apples, shallots and spices, it is wrapped in bacon, in some way similar to how a filet mignon. In the attached picture, it is served with marinated, roasted potatoes and asparagus. A simple accompaniment, so that the intensity of dish can be enjoyed.
