As we gather around the table this Thanksgiving, one dish that remains a timeless favorite is the classic old fashioned stuffing. This dish, with its rich flavors and comforting texture, brings a touch of nostalgia to any holiday meal. Today, I'm thrilled to share with you Grandma's secret old fashioned stuffing recipe that has been handed down through generations. Here are the five easy steps to recreate this delicious Thanksgiving side dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
The key to a great stuffing lies in the quality of its ingredients:
- 1 loaf of day-old white bread, cubed
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 stalks of celery, finely chopped
- 1 cup unsalted butter
- 1⁄2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 teaspoons dried sage
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 to 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 eggs, beaten
🌟 Note: Using day-old bread is crucial as it helps in absorbing the broth without becoming too soggy.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large skillet, melt half of the butter over medium heat:
- Add the onions and celery.
- Cook until they are soft and the onions are translucent, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper.
Step 3: Mix the Ingredients
Combine the sautéed vegetables with your bread cubes in a large mixing bowl:
- Add the herbs: sage, thyme, and marjoram.
- Toss everything together ensuring the bread cubes are evenly coated.
🌿 Note: The herbs give this stuffing its distinctive, aromatic flavor, so don’t skimp on them.
Step 4: Bind Everything Together
To ensure your stuffing holds together nicely:
- Add the beaten eggs to the mixture.
- Stir in the eggs until well distributed.
- Gradually pour in the broth, mixing continuously until the bread absorbs the liquid but is not overly soggy. You might not need all the broth.
| Quantity | Broth Amount |
|---|---|
| Small Gathering (4-6 people) | 2 cups |
| Medium Gathering (7-10 people) | 2.5 cups |
| Large Gathering (11+ people) | 3 cups |
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Here’s how to bake your old fashioned stuffing:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Butter a large baking dish.
- Transfer the stuffing mixture into the dish.
- Dot the top with the remaining butter.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove the foil, and bake for another 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown and crispy.
🍴 Note: Keep an eye on the stuffing as oven temperatures can vary; you might need to adjust the baking time slightly.
By following these steps, you'll bring Grandma's cherished old fashioned stuffing recipe to your holiday table. This dish, with its blend of simple ingredients and traditional flavors, not only fills the room with mouthwatering aromas but also connects us to our heritage, making every bite a cherished memory. As you serve this stuffing, take a moment to appreciate the simplicity of the ingredients and the depth of flavor they bring together. Here's to creating new traditions while honoring the old, all through the joy of cooking.
Can I make this stuffing in advance?
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Absolutely! You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance. Just follow all steps up to baking, cover with foil, and keep it refrigerated. Pop it into the oven about an hour before your meal to heat and bake.
What if I don’t have day-old bread?
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If you’re short on time, you can dry out fresh bread. Simply cut the bread into cubes, spread them on a baking sheet, and bake at 200°F for 30-40 minutes, turning occasionally until they’re dry.
Can I make this stuffing vegetarian?
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Yes, indeed! Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and ensure your bread is free from animal products. Add in mushrooms or other veggies for an extra flavor boost.
Is it possible to use fresh herbs instead of dried?
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Definitely, fresh herbs will give a burst of flavor. Use three times the amount of fresh herbs as the dried equivalent since they are less potent.
Can I freeze this stuffing?
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Yes, you can freeze this stuffing before baking. Just prepare up to step 4, freeze in an airtight container, and when you’re ready, bake from frozen, adding extra time for baking until it’s hot and crispy.
