Nutty Raisin Stuffing
Nutty Raisin Stuffing combines sweet raisins, crunchy nuts, and fragrant sage for a flavorful side perfect for holiday meals or family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place raisins and 3/4 cup water in a small ovenware bowl. Cover with wax paper.
- Cook for 2 minutes; set aside.
- Place butter, chopped celery, and chopped onion in an ovenware dish.
- Cover with wax paper.
- Cook for 10 minutes, stirring 3 times.
- Stir in chicken broth, salt, sage, and pepper.
- Add bread cubes, chopped nuts, and raisin-water mixture.
- Toss lightly until evenly moist.
- Cover with wax paper.
- Continue cooking the stuffing for 7 minutes. Total cooking time is 19 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of instant. If you're looking for a nut-free alternative, sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds can be used instead of nuts. Feel free to experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to customize the taste. If you want a bit more texture, add some sautéed mushrooms or diced apples, which can complement the sweetness of the raisins.
Serving Suggestions
This stuffing is a delightful side dish that pairs beautifully with roasted chicken or turkey, making it a perfect addition to holiday meals. Consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a balanced plate. It also complements dishes like Polka-Dot Baked Macaroni, providing a contrasting texture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Nutty Raisin Stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out. You can warm it in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Nutty Raisin Stuffing contains roughly 743 calories, with 21g protein, 141g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (41% of the Daily Value), iron (34% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2652mg per serving (115% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this stuffing ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this stuffing a day in advance. Assemble all the ingredients and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, allow it to come to room temperature before cooking it, or warm it in the oven. This will help meld the flavors together while saving time on busy days.
What type of nuts work best in this recipe?
While any coarsely chopped nuts can be used, walnuts or pecans are great choices as they add a nice crunch and flavor. If you're looking for something milder, slivered almonds can also work well. Just make sure to toast them lightly for enhanced flavor.
Can I use whole wheat bread instead of white bread?
Absolutely! Whole wheat bread will add a nuttier flavor and more fiber to the stuffing. Just ensure that the bread is cubed and dried out slightly beforehand for the best texture. The same cooking time should apply, but monitor it closely to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).