Lithuanian Stuffing for Poultry

Lithuanian Stuffing for Poultry Recipe - Traditional Dish for Any Occasion

Region / culture: Lithuania | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 40-50 minutes | Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Lithuanian stuffing for poultry is a traditional recipe that adds a delicious and savory flavor to any poultry dish. This stuffing is made with a combination of cracker crumbs, water, spices, onions, milk, eggs, and butter, creating a rich and flavorful mixture that is perfect for stuffing poultry.

History

This Lithuanian stuffing recipe has been passed down through generations in Lithuanian families, with each cook adding their own unique twist to the dish. The combination of ingredients creates a hearty and comforting stuffing that pairs perfectly with roasted poultry.

Ingredients

4 cups milk cracker crumbs, crushed
2.5 cups stock or hot water
dash of celery salt
1 tsp parsley flakes
1 onion, chopped
0.25 tsp pepper
1 cup milk
4 eggs
0.25 lb (113 g) melted butter
1.5 tsp salt

How to prepare

Combine all ingredients, mixing thoroughly.
Pour the mixture into a baking dish measuring 13 x 9 inches.
Place the baking dish into a larger dish filled with boiling water.
Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 40 – 50 minutes or until the center is cooked.

Variations

Add in chopped mushrooms or nuts for added texture and flavor.
Mix in cooked sausage or bacon for a meatier stuffing.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to create a unique flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to mix the ingredients thoroughly to ensure that the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the stuffing.

- Be sure to bake the stuffing in a water bath to prevent it from drying out during cooking.

- Feel free to customize the recipe by adding in your favorite herbs and spices for a unique flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this delicious Lithuanian stuffing alongside roasted poultry, such as chicken or turkey, for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the stuffing in a water bath helps to keep it moist and prevents it from drying out during cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use breadcrumbs or cornbread in place of cracker crumbs.

- Vegetable broth can be used in place of water for added flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the stuffing mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until ready to bake. This is a great time-saving tip for busy weeknights.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Lithuanian stuffing in a decorative serving dish alongside the roasted poultry for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This stuffing pairs well with roasted poultry, cranberry sauce, and a side of roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover stuffing can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Lithuanian stuffing contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Lithuanian stuffing contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Lithuanian stuffing contains approximately 15 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Lithuanian stuffing contains approximately 8 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

This stuffing recipe is a good source of vitamin A, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (milk, butter) and eggs.

Summary

Lithuanian stuffing is a hearty and flavorful dish that is rich in carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, but may not be suitable for those with dairy or egg allergies.

Summary

Lithuanian stuffing for poultry is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for holiday dinners or weeknight meals. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Enjoy this savory stuffing alongside your favorite roasted poultry for a satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I found this recipe is one that will always be special to me. It was a warm summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Elena, who had recently moved to Lithuania. As we sat in her cozy kitchen, sipping tea and catching up on lost time, she suddenly jumped up with excitement.

"Maria, I have something special to share with you," Elena said as she rummaged through her old recipe book. "I learned this recipe from my grandmother, who learned it from her grandmother. It's a traditional Lithuanian stuffing for poultry, and it's absolutely delicious."

I watched with anticipation as Elena pulled out an old, weathered piece of paper from her recipe book. The paper was yellowed with age, and the ink was faded, but the words were still legible. As Elena began to read out the ingredients and instructions, I felt a sense of wonder and excitement wash over me.

The recipe called for simple ingredients like onions, apples, bacon, and bread crumbs, but it was the combination of flavors and the careful preparation that truly made it special. Elena explained that the key to a good Lithuanian stuffing was to sauté the onions and bacon until they were golden and fragrant, then mix them with the apples and bread crumbs to create a rich and savory filling.

As Elena finished reading the recipe, I knew that I had to try it for myself. I asked her for a copy of the recipe, and she gladly obliged. That evening, I returned home with a renewed sense of passion for cooking and a newfound love for Lithuanian cuisine.

Over the next few days, I carefully gathered the ingredients and followed the recipe to the letter. The kitchen was filled with the comforting scents of onions, bacon, and apples as I sautéed them together in a pan. I could almost imagine myself back in Elena's kitchen, learning the recipe from her grandmother's hands.

As I mixed the ingredients together and stuffed the poultry with the fragrant filling, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment wash over me. This recipe was more than just a dish to me – it was a connection to my dear friend Elena, to her family, and to a culture and tradition that was rich with history and flavor.

When the poultry was finally cooked and I took my first bite of the Lithuanian stuffing, I was transported back to that warm summer day in Elena's kitchen. The flavors were rich and savory, with a hint of sweetness from the apples and a smoky depth from the bacon. It was a dish that spoke of tradition and love, of family and friendship.

From that moment on, the Lithuanian stuffing for poultry became a staple in my recipe book. I made it for special occasions and family gatherings, sharing the story of how I learned the recipe from my dear friend Elena. It was a dish that brought people together, that told a story of tradition and heritage, and that filled the hearts and bellies of those who tasted it with joy and warmth.

As I look back on that special moment when I found the recipe for Lithuanian stuffing for poultry, I am filled with gratitude for the connection it brought into my life. It was more than just a recipe – it was a piece of history, a taste of tradition, and a reminder of the power of food to bring people together in love and friendship.