Vegan Herbed Stuffing

Vegan Herbed Stuffing Recipe | Country of Origin: Canada

Region / culture: Canada | Servings: 6 |

Vegan diet

Introduction

Vegan Herbed Stuffing is a delicious and flavorful dish that is perfect for the holiday season or any time you want a comforting and hearty meal. This recipe is packed with herbs and vegetables, making it a nutritious and satisfying option for vegans and non-vegans alike.

History

Stuffing has been a staple in many cultures for centuries, with variations of the dish appearing in different cuisines around the world. This vegan version of stuffing takes inspiration from traditional recipes but puts a plant-based twist on it by using ingredients like quinoa and vegetable broth instead of meat and dairy products.

Ingredients

5 cups stale bread cubes
1-2 cups cooked rice (or other grain such as quinoa)
1 cup minced onions
2 cups finely chopped celery
1.5 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
1 tsp fresh sage, chopped
1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley
0.25 cup olive oil
1 cup vegetable broth
salt (depending on salt content of broth or to taste)

How to prepare

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (191°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine bread and cooked grains.
3. Sauté onions in a small amount of water for about 5 minutes, then add celery and cook until soft.
4. Stir cooked vegetables and herbs into the bread and rice mixture.
5. Mix oil and vegetable broth, then pour it over the stuffing mixture.
6. Add salt to taste.
7. Cook, covered, for about 25 minutes, then uncover and continue cooking until the top is slightly browned and crispy.

Variations

Add chopped nuts or dried fruit for extra texture and sweetness.
Use different herbs like oregano, basil, or tarragon for a unique flavor profile.
Mix in vegan sausage or mushrooms for a heartier stuffing option.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to use stale bread for the best texture in your stuffing.

- Feel free to customize the herbs in this recipe to suit your taste preferences.

- If you prefer a more moist stuffing, add extra vegetable broth to the mixture before baking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Vegan Herbed Stuffing as a side dish alongside roasted vegetables, vegan gravy, and cranberry sauce for a complete holiday meal. It also pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed greens for a lighter option.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making this Vegan Herbed Stuffing is to sauté the vegetables until they are soft and fragrant before mixing them with the bread and quinoa. This helps to develop the flavors and ensure that the stuffing is well-seasoned.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have quinoa, you can use cooked rice or another grain of your choice.

- Feel free to use any type of bread you have on hand, such as whole wheat, sourdough, or gluten-free bread.

- Substitute vegetable broth with mushroom broth or water for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare this Vegan Herbed Stuffing ahead of time by assembling the ingredients and storing them in the refrigerator until you are ready to bake. Simply cover the dish with foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Presentation Ideas

To make this Vegan Herbed Stuffing look even more appetizing, garnish it with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving. You can also serve it in a decorative baking dish or individual ramekins for a more elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This Vegan Herbed Stuffing pairs well with a variety of dishes, including roasted vegetables, vegan protein options like tofu or tempeh, and hearty salads. It also goes well with a glass of white wine or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing beverage option.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers of this Vegan Herbed Stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the stuffing in a baking dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (177°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this Vegan Herbed Stuffing contains approximately 250 calories, making it a satisfying and filling side dish or main course option.

Carbohydrates

The carbohydrates in this Vegan Herbed Stuffing mainly come from the bread, quinoa, and vegetables. Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for the body and can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.

Fats

The fats in this recipe primarily come from the olive oil used for sautéing the vegetables and adding richness to the stuffing. Healthy fats are essential for overall health and can help with nutrient absorption and brain function.

Proteins

The protein in this Vegan Herbed Stuffing comes from the quinoa, which is a complete protein source, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids. Protein is important for muscle repair and growth, as well as overall health and wellness.

Vitamins and minerals

This stuffing is packed with vitamins and minerals from the fresh herbs and vegetables used in the recipe. Thyme, sage, rosemary, and parsley are all rich in antioxidants and essential nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin K, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe is free of common allergens like dairy, eggs, and nuts, making it suitable for those with food allergies or dietary restrictions. However, if you have a gluten allergy or sensitivity, be sure to use gluten-free bread in this recipe.

Summary

Overall, this Vegan Herbed Stuffing is a nutritious and delicious dish that is high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It is a great option for vegans and non-vegans alike looking for a flavorful and satisfying meal.

Summary

Vegan Herbed Stuffing is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for holiday gatherings or any time you want a comforting and satisfying meal. Packed with herbs, vegetables, and grains, this stuffing is a delicious option for vegans and non-vegans alike. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for Vegan Herbed Stuffing. It was a crisp autumn day, the leaves were falling and the smell of pumpkin spice was in the air. I was rummaging through an old cookbook that had been passed down to me from my own grandmother. As I turned the pages, a worn piece of paper fell out and fluttered to the ground. I picked it up and saw the words "Vegan Herbed Stuffing" scrawled across the top in faded ink.

I had never made a vegan dish before, but something about this recipe intrigued me. I had always been an adventurous cook, willing to try new flavors and techniques. And so, without hesitation, I decided to give it a go.

The recipe called for a variety of herbs and spices, including sage, thyme, and rosemary. I had grown these herbs in my own garden for years, and their fragrant aroma always brought me joy. I carefully measured out each ingredient, taking care to follow the instructions precisely.

As I mixed together the bread crumbs, vegetable broth, and herbs, a sense of nostalgia washed over me. I remembered the countless times I had spent in the kitchen with my own grandmother, learning the secrets of her famous recipes. She had always encouraged me to experiment and try new things, and I could almost hear her voice in my ear as I stirred the stuffing.

Once the mixture was ready, I spooned it into a baking dish and popped it into the oven. The smell that wafted through the kitchen was heavenly - a combination of savory herbs and toasty bread that made my mouth water.

As the stuffing cooked, I couldn't help but think back to all the wonderful memories I had of sharing meals with my family. Food had always been a way for us to come together, to laugh and talk and bond over a delicious meal. And now, as I tried my hand at this new recipe, I felt a sense of connection to those who had come before me.

When the timer finally dinged, I pulled the dish out of the oven and took a deep breath. The stuffing was golden brown and crispy on top, with a rich, herby aroma that filled the room. I couldn't wait to dig in and taste the fruits of my labor.

As I sat down at the table and took my first bite, I was transported back to my childhood, surrounded by loved ones and laughter. The flavors were perfect - a harmonious blend of earthy herbs and savory bread that danced on my taste buds. I knew then that this recipe would become a staple in my kitchen, a dish that I would make time and time again for those I held dear.

And so, as I savored each mouthful of Vegan Herbed Stuffing, I felt grateful for the opportunity to learn and grow as a cook. Cooking had always been a labor of love for me, a way to show my affection for others through the food that I prepared. And with each new recipe I tried, I discovered more about myself and the world around me.

As I finished my meal and cleared the table, I reflected on the journey that had brought me to this moment. From my grandmother's kitchen to my own, the love of cooking had been a constant thread in my life. And as I packed away the leftovers of the Vegan Herbed Stuffing, I knew that I would carry on this tradition for generations to come.