Description of this recipe
This Apple Cranberry Stuffing is a delightful twist on a classic dish, blending the savory flavors of herbs and vegetables with the sweetness of apples and cranberries. It’s a perfect accompaniment for your holiday turkey or chicken, making every bite a celebration of flavors and textures. The combination of crispy bread, juicy apples, and tart cranberries creates a stuffing that is both comforting and refreshing.
Why you will love this recipe
You will love this recipe for its perfect balance of sweet and savory elements, which elevates traditional stuffing to a new level. The use of fresh herbs adds a fragrant aroma, while the apples and cranberries provide a burst of flavor that complements the richness of any roasted meat. Additionally, it’s simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy holiday gatherings or family dinners.
Introduction
As the leaves change and the air turns crisp, thoughts of cozy family gatherings and hearty meals come to mind. One dish that often graces the table during these festive occasions is stuffing. While many may stick to the classic bread stuffing, this Apple Cranberry Stuffing offers a delightful twist that will have your guests raving. With its combination of day-old bread, fresh herbs, and the sweet-tart flavor of apples and cranberries, this stuffing is not only delicious but also a beautiful addition to your holiday spread. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to create this comforting dish that embodies the spirit of the season.
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf (about 1 pound) day-old sourdough or whole grain bread, cubed
- 2 large Honeycrisp or Granny Smith apples, diced
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh sage, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme leaves
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: ½ cup chopped pecans or walnuts
Preparation:
Step 1: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast them for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are slightly dry. Set aside and increase the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, sautéing until softened and translucent, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
Step 3: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the chopped sage, thyme, and rosemary. Allow the herbs to cook for another minute to release their flavors, then remove the skillet from heat.
Step 4: In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, sautéed vegetables and herbs, diced apples, and dried cranberries. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.
Step 5: In a separate bowl, whisk together the beaten eggs and 1 ½ cups of the broth. Pour this egg and broth mixture over the bread mixture and gently fold everything together, ensuring that each bread cube is moistened. If the mixture seems dry, add more broth as needed. Season generously with salt and pepper, and fold in the nuts if you are using them.
Step 6: Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, spreading it evenly. Bake uncovered at 375°F (190°C) for about 45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy. Let the stuffing rest for about 10 minutes before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
This Apple Cranberry Stuffing pairs beautifully with roast turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian main dish. Serve it alongside gravy and cranberry sauce for a complete holiday meal. For a more casual dinner, it can be enjoyed with roasted vegetables and a simple green salad.
Tips:
- Use day-old bread: Day-old bread is essential for stuffing as it absorbs the flavors without becoming mushy. If you don’t have any, you can dry fresh bread in the oven at a low temperature.
- Customize with nuts: Adding chopped pecans or walnuts not only enhances the flavor but also adds a delightful crunch.
- Herb substitutions: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like parsley or oregano, depending on your taste preferences.
- Make ahead: You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it before serving.
- Vegetarian option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep the dish vegetarian-friendly.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
Nutritional Information:
Calories: ~350 per serving
Protein: 8g
Sodium: 600mg
Conclusion
This Apple Cranberry Stuffing is more than just a side dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings warmth and joy to any gathering. Its sweet and savory notes, combined with the comforting texture of toasted bread, make it a must-try for your next holiday meal. The recipe is easy to follow, and the result is a stuffing that will impress your family and friends. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let the aromas of this delicious stuffing fill your kitchen!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use fresh cranberries instead of dried?
Yes, you can use fresh cranberries, but keep in mind that they will add more tartness to the dish. You may want to increase the sugar or reduce the amount of salt to balance the flavors. - What can I substitute for the eggs?
If you are looking for an egg substitute, you can use flaxseed meal mixed with water (1 tablespoon of flaxseed meal with 2.5 tablespoons of water equals one egg) or unsweetened applesauce. This will help bind the stuffing without using eggs. - How can I make this stuffing gluten-free?
To make this stuffing gluten-free, simply use gluten-free bread. There are many varieties available, and they work just as well in this recipe. - Can I freeze leftover stuffing?
Yes, you can freeze leftover stuffing. Allow it to cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be frozen for up to three months. Reheat in the oven until warmed through. - What other ingredients can I add to this stuffing?
You can add ingredients like sautéed mushrooms, diced bell peppers, or even cooked sausage for added flavor and texture. Feel free to get creative with your mix-ins!
