Old-fashioned Lithuanian Cracker Stuffing
Lithuanian Cracker Stuffing Recipe with Celery, Onion, and Giblets
Introduction
Old-fashioned Lithuanian Cracker Stuffing is a traditional recipe that has been passed down through generations. This savory and flavorful stuffing is the perfect side dish for any holiday meal or special occasion.
History
This recipe has its roots in Lithuanian cuisine, where hearty and comforting dishes are a staple. The use of cracker crumbs as a base for the stuffing adds a unique texture and flavor that sets it apart from other stuffing recipes.
Ingredients
How to prepare
- Cook celery and onions in butter until tender, adding chopped giblets if desired.
- Add milk to coarsely crushed cracker crumbs.
- Stir in onion mixture, egg, parsley, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well.
Variations
- Add chopped apples or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
- Substitute the cracker crumbs with cornbread for a different texture.
- Use different herbs and spices, such as rosemary or thyme, to customize the flavor of the stuffing.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to cook the celery and onions until they are tender to ensure they blend well with the other ingredients.
- Adding chopped giblets to the stuffing is optional, but it adds a rich and savory flavor to the dish.
- Mixing the cracker crumbs with milk helps to bind the ingredients together and create a moist and delicious stuffing.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Old-fashioned Lithuanian Cracker Stuffing alongside roasted turkey, chicken, or pork for a delicious and comforting meal.
Cooking Techniques
Be sure to cook the celery and onions until they are soft and translucent before adding them to the stuffing mixture.
- Mix the ingredients gently to avoid crushing the cracker crumbs too much.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use butter instead of oleo for a richer flavor.
- Substitute chicken broth for milk for a dairy-free option.
Make Ahead Tips
This stuffing can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish with foil and refrigerate until ready to bake.
Presentation Ideas
Serve the stuffing in a decorative serving dish garnished with fresh parsley or thyme for a beautiful presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
This stuffing pairs well with roasted meats, gravy, cranberry sauce, and a side of green beans or roasted vegetables.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories: 200 per serving
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates: 25g per serving
Fats
Total Fat: 10g per serving
Proteins
Protein: 5g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
This stuffing is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.
Alergens
Contains: Wheat, Milk, Eggs
Summary
This stuffing is a balanced dish that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins. It is also rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to any meal.
Summary
Old-fashioned Lithuanian Cracker Stuffing is a classic recipe that is sure to become a family favorite. With its savory flavors and comforting texture, this stuffing is the perfect side dish for any holiday meal or special occasion.
How did I get this recipe?
I distinctly remember the moment I stumbled upon this recipe for Old-fashioned Lithuanian Cracker Stuffing. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Lithuania. My grandmother, known for her incredible cooking skills, was teaching me how to make a traditional Lithuanian dinner for our family.
As we were preparing the meal, my grandmother suddenly paused and reached for a crumbled piece of paper tucked away in an old cookbook. She unfolded it carefully, a smile spreading across her face as she traced the faded handwriting with her finger. "This," she said, "is a recipe that has been passed down for generations in our family. It's for Old-fashioned Lithuanian Cracker Stuffing."
Curious and eager to learn, I watched as my grandmother began to gather the ingredients for the stuffing. She explained each step in detail, showing me how to crush the crackers into fine crumbs, mix them with butter and onions, and season the mixture with salt, pepper, and herbs. The aroma of the sizzling onions filled the kitchen, and I could already tell that this stuffing was going to be something special.
As we continued to cook, my grandmother shared the story behind the recipe. She told me that it had been brought to our family by my great-grandmother, who had learned it from her own mother. The recipe had been passed down through the generations, each woman adding her own touch and variations to make it uniquely their own.
I listened intently as my grandmother spoke, absorbing every detail and savoring the connection to my family's past. I felt a sense of pride knowing that I was now a part of this culinary tradition, learning to make a dish that had been cherished and perfected by my ancestors.
Finally, the stuffing was ready, and we filled the turkey with the fragrant mixture before placing it in the oven to roast. As the bird cooked, the savory scent of the stuffing wafted through the air, making my mouth water in anticipation.
When the turkey was finally done, we gathered around the table as a family to enjoy the meal we had prepared together. The Old-fashioned Lithuanian Cracker Stuffing was a hit, its rich flavors and comforting texture eliciting murmurs of approval from all who tried it. I felt a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction, knowing that I had helped to create a dish that brought joy and nourishment to my loved ones.
In the years that followed, I continued to make the Old-fashioned Lithuanian Cracker Stuffing for special occasions and family gatherings. Each time I prepared it, I felt a connection to my heritage and the women who had come before me, passing down their culinary knowledge and traditions with love and care.
Now, as I share this recipe with you, my dear grandchild, I hope that you will feel the same sense of pride and connection to our family's past. May this Old-fashioned Lithuanian Cracker Stuffing bring you joy, comfort, and a taste of our shared history for years to come. Bon appétit!
Categories
| Celery Recipes | Cracker Crumb Recipes | Egg Recipes | Giblet Recipes | Lithuanian Meat Dishes | Lithuanian Recipes | Milk And Cream Recipes | Onion Recipes | Parsley Recipes | Sage Recipes | Stuffing Recipes | Thyme Recipes |