Herbed Apple and Pear Stuffing

This delicious stuffing combines artisan bread with sweet apples and pears, aromatic herbs, and savory vegetables. It's the perfect side dish for holiday gatherings or any meal that calls for a comforting, flavorful accompaniment.

Ingredients:

  • Bread:

    • 5 artisan buns (about 10 cups), cut into 1-inch cubes

  • Produce:

    • 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
    • 1 medium bunch celery, finely chopped (about 2 cups)
    • 1 apple, peeled, cored, and cut into ½-inch pieces
    • 1 pear, peeled, cored, and cut into ½-inch pieces
    • ½ ounce fresh parsley leaves (about ½ cup), finely chopped
    • ¼ ounce fresh sage leaves (about 2 tablespoons), finely chopped

  • Seasonings:

    • 1 teaspoon herbes de Provence (¼ ounce)
    • 1 tablespoon mushroom seasoning (¼ ounce)
    • Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste

  • Liquid and Binding:

    • 1½ cups vegetable broth
    • 1 large egg
    • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
    • Olive oil or butter, for greasing the baking dish

Directions:

  1. Prepare the Bread:

    • Preheat the oven to 300°F (150°C) with a rack in the center position.
    • Cut the artisan buns into 1-inch cubes.
    • Spread the bread cubes evenly on a rimmed baking sheet.
    • Bake for about 30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the bread is completely dry.
      • Alternative: Dice the bread and let it dry uncovered overnight.
    • Increase the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) after removing the bread.

  2. Prepare the Baking Dish:

    • Lightly grease an 8x8-inch baking dish with nonstick spray or butter.

  3. Cook the Vegetables and Fruits:

    • In a large skillet over medium-high heat, melt 4 tablespoons of unsalted butter.
    • Add the finely chopped onion and celery, along with the apple and pear pieces.
    • Season with kosher salt and ground black pepper.
    • Cook, stirring frequently, for 2–3 minutes until the vegetables release their liquid.
    • Reduce the heat to medium and continue cooking for an additional 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is softened and golden.

  4. Prepare the Herb Mixture:

    • While the vegetables are cooking, finely chop the parsley and sage leaves, discarding the stems.

  5. Make the Egg-Broth Mixture:

    • In a measuring cup or bowl, whisk together 1½ cups vegetable broth, 1 tablespoon mushroom seasoning, and 1 large egg until well combined.

  6. Combine All Ingredients:

    • In a large bowl, combine the dried bread cubes, cooked vegetable and fruit mixture, chopped parsley and sage, and 1 teaspoon herbes de Provence.
    • Toss gently to ensure everything is evenly mixed.

  7. Add Liquid to the Stuffing:

    • Pour the egg-broth mixture over the bread mixture.
    • Gently fold until the bread is evenly coated and the liquid is absorbed.
    • Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.

  8. Bake the Stuffing:

    • Transfer the stuffing mixture to the prepared baking dish.
    • Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
    • Bake on the center oven rack for 30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 150°F (65°C).
    • Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15–20 minutes, until the top is golden brown and crisp.

  9. Serve:

    • Let the stuffing cool for 5 minutes before serving.
    • Enjoy your homemade herbed apple and pear stuffing!

Serving Suggestions and Tips:

  • Serving Size: This recipe serves 6–8 people as a side dish.
  • Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the stuffing up to the baking step and refrigerate overnight. Bake when ready to serve.
  • Bread Choice: Use any crusty bread like French baguette, sourdough, or ciabatta for different flavors.
  • Add-Ins: For extra texture and flavor, consider adding chopped walnuts or dried cranberries.
  • Mushroom Seasoning Substitute: If unavailable, use a vegetable bouillon cube or omit it.
  • Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
  • Customization: Adjust the herbs to your preference—rosemary and thyme make great additions.
  • Vegan Variation: Replace the butter with olive oil and use a flax egg (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water) instead of a chicken egg.

This herbed apple and pear stuffing brings together sweet and savory flavors for a delightful side dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Serve it alongside roasted turkey, chicken, or pork for a complete and satisfying meal.

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