Imagine a stuffing so extraordinary that it transforms an ordinary meal into a culinary masterpiece. This Apricot Chestnut Sage Stuffing isn't just another side dish—it's a symphony of flavors that dances between sweet, savory, and aromatic notes. With its golden-crisp exterior and luxurious interior packed with tender chestnuts, juicy apricots, and fragrant sage, this recipe promises to be the star of your dining table that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 25 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf of bread, cubed
- 1 cup dried apricots, chopped
- 1 cup cooked chestnuts, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1/2 cup butter
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon sage
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Cut the bread into 1-inch cubes and spread them on a large baking sheet. Toast the bread cubes in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until they are lightly golden and crisp. Remove and set aside to cool.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and celery, sautéing until they become soft and translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Add chopped dried apricots and chestnuts to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, apricots, and chestnuts. Sprinkle dried sage over the mixture.
- Gradually pour vegetable broth over the bread mixture, stirring gently to ensure even moisture distribution. The bread should be moist but not soggy.
- Season the stuffing with salt and pepper, tasting and adjusting the seasoning as needed.
- Transfer the stuffing mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly. Cover with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes covered. Then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes to create a crispy golden top.
- Remove from the oven and let the stuffing rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and makes it easier to serve.
Tips
- • Always use day-old bread for the best texture—slightly stale bread absorbs flavors better and prevents a mushy consistency. • Toast your bread cubes before mixing to add depth of flavor and ensure a crispy finish. • Don't oversaturate the bread with broth; add liquid gradually to control moisture. • For extra richness, consider using chicken or turkey broth instead of vegetable broth. • Let the stuffing rest after baking to allow flavors to meld and make serving easier. • For a vegetarian version, ensure your broth is vegetable-based. • If chestnuts are hard to find, toasted pecans make an excellent alternative.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 35mg
