Nothing beats the comforting aroma of a classic New England stuffing wafting through the house. This dish is a staple at holiday gatherings and Sunday dinners, bringing warmth and nostalgia to the table. New England stuffing is a flavorful blend of savory herbs, hearty bread, and aromatic vegetables that pair perfectly with roasted meats or can stand on its own as a satisfying meal. Let’s dive into how to make this beloved recipe that will surely become a favorite in your home.
Title: New England Stuffing
Ingredients:
– 1 loaf of good-quality white bread, preferably a day or two old
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 stalks of celery, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
– 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
2. Cut the loaf of bread into 1-inch cubes and spread them out on a baking sheet. Bake in the oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until the bread is slightly dried out. Set aside to cool.
3. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the minced garlic, fresh sage, thyme, and parsley to the skillet. Stir and cook for another 2-3 minutes, until the herbs are fragrant.
5. Remove the skillet from the heat and season the mixture with salt and pepper.
6. In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted bread cubes with the sautéed vegetable and herb mixture. Toss everything together until well mixed.
7. Gradually pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the bread mixture, stirring gently to ensure everything is evenly moistened. The stuffing should be moist but not overly soggy. Add more broth if needed.
8. Transfer the stuffing mixture into the prepared baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
9. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crispy.
10. Once the stuffing is done, let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the wonderful flavors and aromas of this New England classic!
Capture the essence of New England with this delicious stuffing that will fill your home with the cozy scent of tradition. Whether served alongside a roast turkey or enjoyed as a standalone dish, this recipe is sure to bring warmth and comfort to your table. Embrace the flavors of the season and savor every bite of this timeless favorite.
