FOIE GRAS

(French: fat liver), a delicacy of French cuisine, the liver of a goose or duck that has been fattened by a process of force feeding. What is generally regarded as the best foie gras is produced in the province of Strasbourg. Foie gras is ideally very firm and smoothly textured, with a colouring of creamy white tinged with pink. Foie gras is often baked in a crust, as pt de foie gras, which may be served hot or cold. The pt, or pastry crust, is lined with jelly and the foie gras is prepared with brandy, seasonings, and truffles. Foie gras may also be served in pure form with bread or toast and jelly, with garnishes or pancakes, or in terrines.