Pâté is a French word that refers to an everyday spreadable meat terrine. Blended to a silky texture or left chunky to make what is known as a country pâté, it's the French equivalent of meatloaf.

Pâté may include seasoned pork, veal, liver, poultry, game, fish or vegetables, plus herbs, spices and two of our favorite things, fat and alcohol. Pâtés baked in pastry are called pâté en croûte. You can eat your pâté hot or cold, usually as an appetizer or a first course.