The Best Terrines
In culinary circles, the presence of a terrine signals class and elegance. For those who are unfamiliar, it is a dish of ground meat, vegetables, seafood, or organ meat, boiled eggs, and various herbs or other seasonings. It is layered and packed into a steel or ceramic mold that is shaped like a loaf. It is prepared, cooked in a water bath, and then removed and sliced for serving, usually as a main course. However, the term “terrine” also sometimes refers to the mold itself, which can be bought online or in upscale stores. If you want to add a terrine to your cookware collection, you should find one that matches your kitchen’s décor. It should be made of only the highest-quality materials that will last you for many years. Find our favorites below!
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Best Quality
Le Creuset Enameled Cast-Iron 2 Quart Pate Terrine
Enameled Cast-Iron Terrine. This is an enameled cast-iron terrine that is elegant and traditional, perfect for serving either hot or cold food at a formal occasion.
What We Liked
This enameled cast-iron terrine, from Le Creuset, is described as being for pâté, but there are many other dishes that you could serve in it. You could also use it to serve vegetables, side dishes, stews, and other hearty options. Le Creuset has been making cast-iron cookware since 1925, and you’re not likely to find a better terrine than this one. Each one is cast individually in a sand mold, and inspected by French artisans before being made available for sale. This terrine holds a full two quarts, and comes in cherry red. It has traditional scalloped handles for a secure grip, and a tight-fitting handle to ensure there will be no spills. Get it here.
Most Heat-Resistant
Emile Henry 119706 France Ovenware Terrine & Press
Outstanding Quality Terrine. This French-style terrine is resistant to temperature change, and can safely go straight from the oven or microwave to the refrigerator.
What We Liked
This is a classic French-style terrine by Emile Henry, which has been operating since 1850. In classic white, it is made of high-quality materials. The high-fired Burgundy clay is made to be heat-resistant. You can use it in ovens at up to 520 degrees, and it is also safe to use in a broiler or microwave. You can transfer it directly to a freezer or refrigerator, and you’ll never have to worry about it cracking. It is scratch-resistant and durable. You can make many different meals or desserts in it. It is also dishwasher-safe, or you can hand-wash it with soap and water. The tight-fitting lid lets the ingredients steam, so they emerge moist and tender. Buy it now.
Most Scratch-Resistant
Staub 40510-803 Ceramics Covered Pate/Terrine Mold
Long-Lasting Terrine. This is a classic ceramic terrine that is heat-resistant and will last you a lifetime if you use it carefully.
What We Liked
This is a ceramic terrine tray that you can also use for pâté, as well as other main dishes, side dishes, and desserts. It comes in an attractive cherry color, with a matching, tight-fitting lid. The porcelain-enamel finish is vitreous and highly resistant to scratches. The stoneware is built in such a way that it does not absorb moisture, so it will not crack, even after many years of heavy use. It retains heat exceptionally well, so your culinary creations will stay hot when you place it on the sideboard during dinner. It is oven-safe up to 572 degrees, and it also does well in the microwave, fridge, or freezer. It was designed in France, by Staub, and manufactured in China. Buy it here.
Most Versatile
WM Bartleet & Sons 1750 T184 Butter/Terrine Dish with Lid
Terrine with Many Uses. This handsome terrine can be used for meatloaf, pâté, fish dishes, vegetables, and more.
What We Liked
The WM Bartlett and Sons terrine is made of premium-quality white porcelain. It can hold butter or margarine at breakfast if you are serving toast. At lunch or dinner, it is ideal for fresh fish, meatloaf, pâté, or cold desserts such as custard. It is more in the English design than the French, with a rounded shape instead of the elongated one that you typically see in terrines from that part of the world. This would be ideal for home use, but you can also take it with you to pot-lucks and other occasions. It is safe to use in the freezer, microwave, oven, and dishwasher. WM Bartlett and Sons has been operating since 1750, and is one of the best-known and respected makers of European cookware. Get it now.