Imagine a stuffing so incredibly flavorful and aromatic that it transforms an ordinary meal into an extraordinary culinary experience. This Herbed Vegetarian Sourdough Stuffing is not just a side dish – it's a celebration of texture, herbs, and pure comfort food magic. Whether you're a vegetarian, a foodie, or simply someone who loves delicious, hearty recipes, this stuffing will elevate your dining table and have everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 50 mins
Cuisine: Vegetarian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf sourdough bread, cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon sage
- 1 tablespoon thyme
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread cubed sourdough bread on a large baking sheet in a single layer and toast for 10-12 minutes until lightly golden and crisp, stirring once halfway through to ensure even browning.
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and celery, sautéing until they become soft and translucent, approximately 5-6 minutes.
- Add fresh chopped parsley, sage, and thyme to the skillet. Stir and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes to release the herbs' aromatic oils.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the toasted sourdough bread cubes with the sautéed vegetable and herb mixture. Gently toss to distribute ingredients evenly.
- Gradually pour vegetable broth over the bread mixture, stirring carefully to moisten the bread without making it soggy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Cover with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes covered, then remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes to create a crispy golden top.
- Remove from oven and let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired.
Tips
- Choose a high-quality sourdough bread for the best flavor and texture. Day-old bread works best as it absorbs the broth more effectively.
- Toast the bread cubes thoroughly to ensure a crispy exterior and prevent the stuffing from becoming too mushy.
- Don't skip the step of sautéing herbs – this releases their essential oils and intensifies the overall flavor profile.
- Be careful not to over-saturate the bread with vegetable broth. Add it gradually and mix gently to maintain the perfect moisture balance.
- For extra richness, consider adding some roasted garlic or sautéed mushrooms to the vegetable mixture.
- If you prefer a crispier top, broil the stuffing for 2-3 minutes after baking, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- This stuffing can be prepared a day ahead and refrigerated, making it perfect for holiday meal planning.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
