Thanksgiving dinner just wouldn’t be complete without the comforting presence of True Pilgrim Stuffing on the table. This iconic dish, also known as “dressing,” carries with it the nostalgia of centuries-old traditions and a warm, inviting aroma. In this blog post, we’re taking you on a journey to create the perfect True Pilgrim Stuffing, a side dish that embodies the essence of Thanksgiving. Get ready to impress your guests and celebrate this cherished holiday with a taste of history.
Ingredients
To craft an authentic True Pilgrim Stuffing, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 10 cups of day-old white bread, cubed
- 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2-3 celery stalks, chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Prepping the Bread:
- Begin by cutting your day-old white bread into 1-inch cubes. Spread them out on a baking sheet to dry for a day or place them in a low-temperature oven to expedite the process.
Sautéing the Aromatics: 2. In a large skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and chopped celery and sauté until they become soft and translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic, dried sage, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Continue to sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the aromatics to release their flavors.
Combining Bread and Aromatics: 4. In a large mixing bowl, gently fold the sautéed mixture into the dried bread cubes, ensuring an even distribution of flavors.
- Pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the bread and aromatics, and gently mix until the bread is evenly moistened. The broth should be absorbed by the bread without making it too soggy.
Baking the Stuffing: 6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes until the stuffing develops a crispy, golden-brown top.
Garnishing and Serving: 10. Once your True Pilgrim Stuffing is out of the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve it hot and watch it disappear from the Thanksgiving table.
Cooking Notes
- Using day-old bread ensures your stuffing is dry enough to absorb the flavors without becoming mushy.
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- You can add extra ingredients like chopped apples, cranberries, or sausage for additional flavors and textures.
Variations
- For a sweet twist, incorporate diced apples and dried cranberries.
- Enhance the umami with cooked sausage or bacon bits.
- Amp up the herbs with fresh sage, thyme, or rosemary.
Keto Version (Approx. 80 words): For a keto-friendly True Pilgrim Stuffing, use almond or coconut flour bread as a substitute for traditional bread. Replace the diced onion with chopped leeks or shallots for fewer carbs. Instead of using regular butter, opt for keto-friendly ghee. Choose a low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, and sweeten the stuffing slightly with a keto-approved sweetener. This way, you can savor the flavors of Thanksgiving without sacrificing your low-carb lifestyle.
Low-Carb Version To create a low-carb twist on True Pilgrim Stuffing, use whole-grain or low-carb bread as a replacement for white bread. Swap the diced onion for scallions or chives to reduce carb content. Replace the unsalted butter with a lighter option, such as olive oil or a low-fat spread. Opt for a low-sodium vegetable broth to further reduce the carb count. This low-carb stuffing will fit your dietary needs while preserving the essence of the classic recipe.
True Pilgrim Stuffing, with its aromatic blend of herbs and comforting bread, is a timeless staple on the Thanksgiving table. This iconic dish brings the warmth of tradition to your holiday feast. Whether you’re preparing the classic version, a keto-friendly adaptation, or a low-carb alternative, this stuffing is a testament to the enduring spirit of Thanksgiving. Savor its delicious flavors and enjoy the holiday with loved ones, cherishing the heritage of this beloved recipe.
