Sweet Almond Stuffing

Sweet Almond Stuffing Recipe: A Delicious and Easy-to-Make Side Dish

| Servings: 8

Introduction

History

The origins of sweet almond stuffing are not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in Europe, where almonds have long been a popular ingredient in both sweet and savory dishes. Over time, different variations of almond stuffing have emerged, with some recipes incorporating additional ingredients such as dried fruits, herbs, and spices.

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) loaf wheat bread, cubed
0.33 cup (80 g) almonds, slivered
1 cup (160 g) onions, diced
3 tbsp (45 ml) olive oil
1 cup (160 g) apple, diced
0.33 cup (52 g) raisins
2 tbsp (30 ml) parsley
1.5 tsp (7.5 ml) thyme
1.5 tsp (7.5 ml) sage
4 cups (960 ml) vegetable stock
salt and pepper, to taste

How to prepare

Preheat the oven to 350°F (177°C).
Place the bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
In a small skillet, toast the almonds over very low heat until they are lightly browned and aromatic, which should take about 5 minutes.
Heat oil in a stock pot.
Saute the onion and celery until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
Add the apple and raisins, and saute for another 2 minutes.
Remove from heat and stir in the bread cubes and almonds.
Mix in the remaining ingredients.
Transfer the stuffing mixture to a large casserole dish and bake it until the top is browned, which should take about 45 minutes.

Variations

Add dried cranberries or apricots for a pop of color and extra sweetness.
Mix in chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch and flavor.
Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as rosemary, thyme, or cinnamon, to create a unique and personalized stuffing recipe.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to toast the bread cubes and almonds before adding them to the stuffing mixture. This will help to enhance their flavors and give the stuffing a nice crunch.

- Make sure to saute the onions and celery until they are soft and translucent before adding the other ingredients. This will help to develop their flavors and ensure that they are evenly distributed throughout the stuffing.

- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs and spices, such as rosemary, oregano, or garlic, to suit your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this sweet almond stuffing alongside roasted turkey, chicken, or pork for a delicious and festive holiday meal. It also pairs well with roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad.

Cooking Techniques

Toast the bread cubes and almonds to enhance their flavors and give the stuffing a nice crunch.

- Saute the onions and celery until they are soft and translucent to develop their flavors and ensure even distribution throughout the stuffing.

- Bake the stuffing in a casserole dish until the top is browned and crispy for a delicious and satisfying side dish.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use gluten-free bread cubes for a gluten-free version of this recipe.

- Substitute vegetable stock with chicken or turkey stock for a meatier flavor.

- Swap out almonds for pecans, walnuts, or hazelnuts for a different nutty taste.

Make Ahead Tips

Prepare the stuffing mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. This will allow the flavors to meld together and make for an even more delicious dish.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the sweet almond stuffing in a decorative casserole dish or on a platter garnished with fresh parsley or thyme for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair this sweet almond stuffing with a glass of white wine, such as Chardonnay or Riesling, to complement the flavors of the dish. It also pairs well with a crisp apple cider or sparkling water with a splash of lemon.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover sweet almond stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the stuffing in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (177°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

280

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 38g

- Dietary Fiber: 4g

- Sugars: 10g

Fats

- Total Fat: 12g

- Saturated Fat: 1g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 7g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 5%

- Vitamin C: 8%

- Calcium: 8%

- Iron: 10%

Alergens

Contains almonds

Summary

This sweet almond stuffing is a nutritious and delicious side dish that is rich in carbohydrates, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a great source of fiber and protein, making it a satisfying addition to any meal.

Summary

Sweet almond stuffing is a delicious and flavorful side dish that is perfect for holiday gatherings or special occasions. This recipe combines the nutty taste of almonds with the sweetness of apples and raisins, creating a unique and tasty stuffing that pairs well with roasted meats or poultry. With a perfect balance of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, this sweet almond stuffing is a nutritious and satisfying addition to any meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Sweet Almond Stuffing. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my own grandmother. She was a wonderful cook, and I spent countless hours in her kitchen, watching her prepare delicious meals with love and care.

One day, as I was flipping through her old recipe book, I came across a faded and stained piece of paper tucked between the pages. It was a recipe for Sweet Almond Stuffing, written in my grandmother's elegant handwriting. I knew right away that I had stumbled upon something special.

As I read through the ingredients and instructions, my mouth watered at the thought of the sweet and savory flavors coming together in perfect harmony. I could almost taste the almonds, the raisins, the hint of cinnamon and nutmeg. I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish.

I asked my grandmother about the recipe, and she smiled knowingly. She told me that it was a family recipe, passed down through the generations. It was a dish that was typically made for special occasions, such as holidays or family gatherings. She offered to teach me how to make it, and I eagerly accepted.

Together, we gathered the ingredients and set to work in the kitchen. My grandmother guided me through each step, showing me how to chop the almonds, soak the raisins, and mix everything together with just the right amount of spices. As the scent of cinnamon and nutmeg filled the air, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment.

When the stuffing was finally done, we sat down to enjoy a meal together. The Sweet Almond Stuffing was everything I had hoped for and more. The almonds added a crunchy texture, the raisins added a touch of sweetness, and the spices added a warmth that lingered on the palate. It was a dish that was both comforting and satisfying, a true testament to the power of good food made with love.

From that day on, Sweet Almond Stuffing became a staple in my own cooking repertoire. I made it for holidays, birthdays, and any time I wanted to treat my loved ones to something special. Each time I made it, I thought of my grandmother and the joy of learning from her.

As the years went by, I continued to add my own twist to the recipe, experimenting with different nuts, fruits, and spices. I shared the recipe with friends and family, passing it on to the next generation with pride. And though my grandmother is no longer with us, her legacy lives on in every bite of Sweet Almond Stuffing that I make.

I am grateful for the time I spent in my grandmother's kitchen, learning from her and creating memories that will last a lifetime. And whenever I make Sweet Almond Stuffing, I am reminded of the love and care that went into every dish she prepared. It is a recipe that will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the power of good food and the joy of sharing it with others.