Vegetarian Stuffing with Chestnuts and Cranberries

Meal Prep and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6 servings
• Grams per Serving: Approx. 150 grams

Instructions

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with a little olive oil or line it with parchment paper.
2. Prepare Bread Cubes: Place stale bread cubes in a large mixing bowl. Set aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, celery, carrot, and garlic until softened (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Combine Ingredients: Add sautéed vegetables, chopped chestnuts, dried cranberries, thyme, sage, and nutmeg to the bread cubes. Mix thoroughly.
5. Add Stock: Gradually pour in vegetable stock while gently tossing the mixture until the bread absorbs the liquid and the stuffing holds together.
6. Transfer to Baking Dish: Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly and cover with foil.
7. Bake: Bake covered for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the top is golden and slightly crisp.
8. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley before serving warm.

Why This Recipe Works
This vegetarian stuffing blends the earthy sweetness of chestnuts and cranberries with a savory medley of herbs and vegetables. The whole-grain bread adds a rustic texture, making it both comforting and nutritious. Its balanced flavors and textures are perfect for holiday dinners or as a hearty side dish.

Healthy Aspect
This stuffing is packed with nutrient-rich ingredients: whole-grain bread offers fiber, chestnuts provide complex carbohydrates and a slight sweetness, and cranberries add antioxidants. The use of olive oil and low-sodium vegetable stock keeps it heart-healthy while ensuring a delicious flavor.