'Raw Foie Gras vs. Escalopes: Differences and Chef's Tips'

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Foie gras, an emblematic dish of French gastronomy, comes in various forms, adapting to different preparations and gastronomic occasions. The most practical way to consume it and to acquire it internationally with a long shelf life is to buy it cooked whole or in blocks (the best foie gras contains no preservatives or additives). But to prepare a personalized specialty, raw foie gras or scallops are excellent options to surprise your guests.

Frozen Duck Foie Gras Escalopes from the Southwest 600 g - Gourmet Foie Gras

"Foie gras escalopes and whole raw foie gras can often be confused, while they serve specific uses and preparations. So, what are their differences and how to cook them properly?"

What is raw foie gras?

Raw foie gras refers to the whole lobe of goose or duck liver, sold unprocessed. It may be deveined or not. It is a raw product intended for various preparations:
  • Foie gras terrines: Raw foie gras is often used to make foie gras terrines. After a delicate seasoning (salt, pepper, sometimes a touch of cognac or port), it is gently cooked to preserve its aromas in the oven or in a water bath.
  • Foie gras pâtés: This preparation is made by blending raw foie gras with other ingredients such as lean meat, spices, and sometimes an alcohol (cognac, armagnac, or port) to enhance the flavors. The cooking of foie gras pâté is often done in the oven, but it can also be steamed or cooked in a water bath, depending on the chosen recipe.
  • Conservation: Once prepared, it is kept in the refrigerator and should be consumed quickly.

This product requires a certain mastery in cooking, especially for deveining, an essential step necessary to ensure a perfect taste for foie gras.

Foie gras escalopes: a specific preparation

Frozen Raw Foie Gras Escalopes from the Southwest - Gourmet Foie Gras

Foie gras escalopes are slices cut from raw foie gras, often already ready to use. They are ideal for quick frying, which enhances their melting texture.

Main Features :

  • Cutting: The cutlets are generally thick to prevent them from completely melting during cooking.
  • Usage: They cook in just a few minutes over high heat and are often served with a sweet sauce (balsamic vinegar, caramelized fruits) or a savory garnish (puree, sautéed vegetables).
These escalopes do not require deveining or prior preparation, which makes them more accessible to amateur cooks.

The key differences between escalopes and whole raw foie gras

Foie gras escalopes are slices cut from raw foie gras, ready to cook quickly, while whole raw foie gras is a complete lobe that requires more elaborate preparation, such as deveining and seasoning. Furthermore, the escalopes offer a melting texture after quick cooking, while whole raw foie gras allows for a greater variety of preparations, such as terrines or pâtés.

How to choose between escalopes and whole raw foie gras?

If you want to impress on a special occasion or enjoy an elegant dish without complication, the foie gras scallops are the perfect choice: simple, yet sophisticated.

For cooking enthusiasts who want to create something unique at home, raw foie gras allows you to customize your terrines and experiment with new recipes in a creative way.

Frozen Raw Duck Foie Gras Box - Gourmet Foie Gras

Do you want to impress your guests with something complex or quick to prepare?

The choice between a whole raw foie gras or foie gras escalopes depends primarily on your desires and the time you wish to dedicate to cooking. The former offers flexibility for homemade recipes (to make a unique terrine), while the latter guarantees a quick and always successful preparation. To make a foie gras terrine, it is better to start the day before tasting, while foie gras escalopes can be ready in just a few minutes. In both cases, it is an invitation to savor an exceptional product. Enjoy your meal! 🍴
 

1 comment


  • Emont December 21, 2024 at 10:41 pm

    J’ai acheté 2 lobes de foie gras, je n’ai pas vu qu’il s’agissait de foie gras pour escalope, peut-on quand même les déguster tel que sur des toasts ?? Ou faut-il obligatoirement les faire cuire ? Merci de votre réponse


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