Bread Dressing

Bread Dressing Recipe - A Classic American Dish

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 20 minutes | Cooking time: 30 minutes | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Bread dressing, a classic side dish, is a staple at many dinner tables, especially during festive seasons. This versatile recipe transforms simple ingredients like bread, vegetables, and spices into a flavorful accompaniment that enhances the main course. Whether served alongside turkey for Thanksgiving or as a comforting side dish throughout the year, bread dressing is cherished for its rich flavors and satisfying texture.

History

The tradition of stuffing or dressing dates back to the Roman Empire, where various ingredients like grains, herbs, and chopped meats were used to fill the cavities of animals before cooking. Over centuries, this evolved into the bread-based dressing we know today, with each culture adding its unique twist. The recipe provided here is a modern, healthier take on the classic, using egg whites and margarine instead of whole eggs and butter.

Ingredients

8 cups bread cubes
2 tbsp margarine
0.25 cup onion
0.5 cup celery
1 tsp sage
0.25 tsp salt
0.25 tsp ground pepper
0.75 cup chicken broth
2 egg whites

How to prepare

Melt the margarine in a large skillet.
Add the onion and celery; cook until they become tender.
Add the bread cubes to the skillet.
Sprinkle sage, salt, and pepper over the mixture.
Moisten the mixture with broth according to your preference for dry or moist dressing.
Lightly beat the egg whites with a fork and stir them into the dressing.
Use the mixture as stuffing for the turkey, or bake it covered in a 1 qt (946 ml) casserole dish for 30 minutes.

Variations

Sauté 0.5 cup of fresh, sliced mushrooms with celery and onions.
Consider adding dried fruits like cranberries or chopped apples for a sweet contrast, or mix in walnuts or pecans for added crunch. For a different flavor profile, try using cornbread cubes instead of regular bread.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best texture, use day-old bread that's slightly dried out; this helps it absorb the flavors better. If you prefer a moister dressing, increase the amount of chicken broth. For a crispier top, bake the dressing uncovered for the last 10-15 minutes. Experiment with different types of bread for varied flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This bread dressing pairs beautifully with roasted meats like turkey, chicken, or pork. It can also complement vegetarian dishes, such as roasted vegetables or a lentil loaf, for a hearty meal.

Cooking Techniques

To ensure even cooking and flavor distribution, thoroughly mix the ingredients before baking. If you prefer a moister dressing, cover the dish with foil during baking to retain moisture.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a dairy-free version, use olive oil instead of margarine. Vegetable broth can replace chicken broth for a vegetarian option. If you're avoiding eggs, a flaxseed or chia seed mixture can be used as a binder.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the bread cubes and vegetable mixture a day ahead and store them separately in the refrigerator. This will save time on the day of cooking and allow the flavors to meld together better.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the dressing in a beautiful casserole dish garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or sage. A sprinkle of pomegranate seeds can add a pop of color and a hint of sweetness.

Pairing Recommendations

A light, crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of the bread dressing. For non-alcoholic options, consider sparkling water with a lemon twist or apple cider.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover bread dressing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, sprinkle a little broth over the top to keep it moist and warm it in the oven or microwave.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of this bread dressing contains approximately 140 calories, making it a relatively low-calorie side dish that can fit into various meal plans.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this bread dressing contains approximately 22 grams of carbohydrates. The primary source of these carbohydrates is the bread cubes, which provide the body with energy.

Fats

This recipe contains a moderate amount of fat, with about 4 grams per serving, mainly from the margarine. Using margarine instead of butter reduces the saturated fat content, making it a healthier option.

Proteins

Each serving of bread dressing offers around 5 grams of protein, primarily from the egg whites. Protein is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is a source of several vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin A from the margarine, Vitamin C from the celery, and various B vitamins from the bread. It also contains important minerals like iron and calcium.

Alergens

Common allergens in this recipe include gluten (from the bread) and eggs (from the egg whites). Individuals with allergies to these ingredients should seek suitable substitutions.

Summary

Overall, this bread dressing is a balanced side dish that offers carbohydrates for energy, proteins for tissue repair, and a moderate amount of fats. It also provides essential vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to meals.

Summary

This bread dressing recipe offers a healthier take on a traditional side dish, using ingredients like margarine and egg whites to reduce fat and cholesterol. With its rich flavors and versatile serving options, it's a perfect addition to any meal, especially during festive seasons. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with variations, this bread dressing is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Bread Dressing. It was tucked away in an old cookbook that belonged to my great-grandmother, passed down through the generations. The pages were yellowed and fragile, with handwritten notes scribbled in the margins. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I couldn't help but wonder about the history behind this recipe.

Growing up, I had always been fascinated by the art of cooking. My mother was an excellent cook, and I spent countless hours watching her prepare meals in our cozy kitchen. She had a talent for taking simple ingredients and turning them into delicious dishes that filled our home with warmth and love. I learned so much from her, but there was always a part of me that longed to discover new recipes and techniques on my own.

One day, while rummaging through my great-grandmother's cookbook, I stumbled upon the recipe for Bread Dressing. The ingredients were simple – bread crumbs, onions, celery, and a handful of spices – but the method of preparation was unlike anything I had ever seen before. It involved soaking the bread crumbs in milk, then mixing them with the sautéed vegetables and seasonings before baking the mixture in the oven until golden brown and crispy.

I was intrigued by the idea of using bread as the base for a savory dish. It seemed like a clever way to make use of leftover bread and create a hearty side dish that could complement any meal. I decided to give the recipe a try, following the instructions carefully and adding my own twist by incorporating some fresh herbs and a dash of Worcestershire sauce.

As the Bread Dressing baked in the oven, the tantalizing aroma filled my kitchen, bringing back memories of family gatherings and holiday feasts. I couldn't wait to taste the finished dish and see if it lived up to my expectations. When the timer finally went off, I pulled the baking dish out of the oven and took a spoonful of the golden-brown stuffing.

The first bite was pure bliss. The Bread Dressing was rich and flavorful, with the perfect balance of seasonings and textures. The bread crumbs had soaked up the milk and melted into a creamy consistency, while the onions and celery added a delightful crunch. The fresh herbs and Worcestershire sauce gave the dish a depth of flavor that was truly extraordinary.

I knew I had stumbled upon a gem of a recipe. The Bread Dressing quickly became a staple at our family gatherings, earning rave reviews from all who tried it. My grandmother was particularly impressed and asked me to teach her how to make it. She had never tasted anything quite like it before and was eager to add it to her repertoire of recipes.

Over the years, I continued to experiment with the Bread Dressing recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit my taste preferences. Sometimes I would add in some cooked sausage or bacon for a meatier version, or throw in some dried cranberries and pecans for a festive twist. Each variation was a hit, and I was proud to have created a dish that brought joy and comfort to my loved ones.

As I look back on that fateful day when I found the recipe for Bread Dressing in my great-grandmother's cookbook, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary journey it set me on. It taught me the value of curiosity and experimentation in the kitchen, and inspired me to continue exploring new flavors and techniques. The Bread Dressing recipe will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy that can be found in a simple dish made with love and passion.