Stuffing Balls
Title: Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls
Ingredients:
- 8 cups cubed bread (white or whole wheat), dried or slightly stale
- 1 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
- 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 2-3 cups chicken or vegetable broth (for moistening)
- Cooking spray for greasing
Instructions:
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Prepare Bread Cubes:
- Spread the cubed bread on a baking sheet and bake in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes or until slightly dried. Remove from the oven and let them cool.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- In a skillet over medium heat, melt 1/4 cup of the butter. Add chopped onions, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the dried bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, chopped parsley, dried sage, dried thyme, crushed dried rosemary, dried marjoram, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Moisten with Broth:
- Gradually add the beaten eggs and melted butter to the bread mixture, mixing continuously. Slowly add chicken or vegetable broth until the mixture is moistened but not overly wet. The exact amount of broth may vary, so add it gradually.
- Shape into Balls:
- Grease your hands with cooking spray. Take a portion of the stuffing mixture and shape it into a ball, about the size of a golf ball. Place the balls on a greased baking sheet.
- Bake:
- Bake the stuffing balls in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.
- Serve:
- Remove the stuffing balls from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes. Serve alongside your Thanksgiving feast or as a delicious side dish.
Time and Intensity:
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
- Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 5 minutes
- Intensity: Moderate
Note: These Thanksgiving Stuffing Balls are a delightful and convenient way to enjoy the flavors of stuffing. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding chopped nuts, dried fruits, or your favorite herbs. They make a great addition to any holiday meal or festive gathering. Enjoy the comforting taste of Thanksgiving in every bite!