What You Need to Know
By baking in a water bath at controlled temperatures, the process ensures even heat distribution, preserves moisture, and yields a firm yet tender texture characteristic of classic French pâtés. Gelatinization of collagen begins around 60 °C and completes by 80 °C, while the Maillard reaction is limited due to low surface area, with caramelization of sugars providing the primary browning.
The Science
Primary Reaction
Gelatinization of collagen