DESCRIPTION of AUTUMN ORCHARD STUFFING
This Autumn Orchard Stuffing is a delightful blend of rustic whole wheat sourdough, savoury turkey sausage, and the crisp sweetness of Honeycrisp apples, enhanced with aromatic herbs and a hint of fennel. Each bite is moistened with a mixture of chicken broth and apple cider, infusing it with layers of flavour that echo the essence of fall. Perfect for festive gatherings or a comforting family meal, this stuffing not only complements any main dish but also stands out as a hearty, flavorful side that’s sure to impress.
RECIPE CATEGORY
- Side
SERVING SIZE
- 10 servings
CUISINE
- American
PREPARATION/TECHNIQUES
- Bake
OCCASION/HOLIDAY
- Thanksgiving, Christmas, Fall
SPECIAL CONSIDERATION/DIETARY CONCERNS
- High Fibre, Low Fat
DISH TYPE
- Stuffing / Dressing
INGREDIENTS FOR AUTUMN ORCHARD STUFFING
- 8 cups whole wheat sourdough bread, cubed
- 1 lb turkey breakfast sausage
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1 1/2 cups onion, chopped
- 1 1/4 cups fennel bulb, chopped
- 1 cup celery, chopped
- 3 cups Honeycrisp apple, chopped
- 6 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 tbsp fresh sage, chopped
- 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup apple cider
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
FULL NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 29g
- Protein: 12g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
PREPARATION FOR AUTUMN ORCHARD STUFFING
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Bread: Spread sourdough cubes on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 10 minutes or until lightly crisp.
- Cook the Sausage: In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the sausage until fully cooked; remove and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté onions, fennel, and celery until soft. Add garlic, sage, and parsley, cooking for an additional minute.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes, cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, and chopped apples.
- Prepare the Liquid Mixture: Whisk together chicken broth, apple cider, beaten egg, salt, and pepper. Pour over the bread mixture, ensuring everything is evenly moistened.
- Bake the Stuffing: Transfer the mixture to a buttered baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for another 20 minutes or until the top is crisp and golden.
- Serve: Garnish with additional fresh parsley before serving.
PREP TIME
- 20 minutes
COOKING TIME
- 55 minutes
TIPS FOR AUTUMN ORCHARD STUFFING
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the turkey sausage with a plant-based alternative and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Enhance the autumn flavour by adding a handful of dried cranberries during the final mixing step.
VARIATIONS
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread to accommodate dietary needs.
- Add Nuts: Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavour.
PREPPING AND STORAGE GUIDE FOR AUTUMN ORCHARD STUFFING
- Assemble the stuffing a day ahead and keep it refrigerated to save time on busy occasions.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to one month. Reheat in the oven until thoroughly warmed.
This stuffing recipe offers a unique twist on traditional favourites, incorporating both classic and inventive elements to create a memorable side dish for any special occasion.