Get ready to transport your taste buds to the rugged coastlines of Newfoundland with this mouthwatering traditional dressing that's been warming hearts and filling bellies for generations! This isn't just another side dish - it's a culinary journey that captures the essence of Canadian home cooking, packed with rich flavors and a history as deep as the Atlantic Ocean. Whether you're looking to impress your family at Thanksgiving or craving a taste of authentic Canadian comfort food, this savoury dressing will become your new go-to recipe that promises to steal the show at any meal.
Prep Time: 30 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 30 mins
Cuisine: Canadian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 loaf stale bread, cubed
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried savory
- 1/4 cup butter
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by cutting the stale bread into 1-inch cubes and allowing them to dry out further on a baking sheet at room temperature for about 1 hour.
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add chopped onions and celery, sautéing until the vegetables become soft and translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Transfer the dried bread cubes to a large mixing bowl. Add the sautéed onions and celery, chopped fresh parsley, and dried savory. Gently mix the ingredients to distribute evenly.
- Slowly pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the bread mixture, stirring carefully to ensure the bread absorbs the liquid without becoming too soggy. The mixture should be moist but not wet.
- Season the dressing with salt and pepper to taste, mixing thoroughly to ensure even distribution of seasonings.
- Transfer the dressing to a greased 9x13 inch baking dish, spreading it evenly and loosely to allow for proper heat circulation.
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil to prevent excessive browning.
- Bake the dressing for 45 minutes covered, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to create a crispy golden top.
- Remove from the oven and let the dressing rest for 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle and the texture to set.
Tips
- Bread Selection Matters: Use day-old or slightly stale bread for the best texture. The drier the bread, the better it will absorb the delicious broth and seasonings.
- Don't Rush the Sautéing: Take your time caramelizing the onions and celery. This develops a deeper, richer flavor profile for your dressing.
- Moisture is Key: Add broth gradually and mix carefully. You want the dressing moist but not soggy - think of a perfect, slightly wet consistency that will become wonderfully crispy on top.
- Customize Your Herbs: While dried savory is traditional, feel free to experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or sage to make the recipe your own.
- Resting is Crucial: Always let the dressing rest for 10 minutes after baking. This allows the flavors to meld and the texture to set perfectly.Pro Tip: For an extra flavor boost, consider adding some crispy bacon bits or chestnuts to the mix for a delightful twist on the classic recipe!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 9g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
