Apple and Sage Stuffing (Parsley and Thyme)

applesagestuffing This oven-baked stuffing is filled with juicy apples and fresh herbs that create the most delicious flavour to go with your turkey or other holiday dishes.

1 lb crusty bread, cut into 1” cubes, store bought or homemade
½ cup butter (1 stick)
1 onion, diced
4 ribs celery, diced
1 apple, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
¾ tsp. sea salt
½ tsp. black pepper, freshly ground
2 Tbsp. fresh parsley, chopped
1 Tbsp. fresh sage, chopped
1 tsp. fresh thyme leaves
1½ cups chicken, turkey or vegetable broth
2 large eggs, beaten

Preheat an oven to 200°F. Grease a 9x13” baking pan with nonstick spray or melted butter. Set aside.

Spread the bread out on an ungreased sheet pan. Bake for 20 minutes.

While the bread cooks, melt the butter in a large sauté pan set over medium heat.

Add in the onion, celery and apple. Cook, stirring occasionally until softened, but not browned, about 5 minutes.

Add in the garlic, salt and pepper and cook for another minute. Transfer the mixture to a large bowl.

Once the bread is toasted, take it out and increase the oven temperature to 350°F (180°C/160°C fan, Gas Mark 4).

Add the bread, parsley, sage, thyme, chicken broth and eggs to the large bowl. Toss well until the bread is coated and has absorbed some of the liquid.

Transfer to the prepared baking dish. Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes at 350°F (180°C/160°C fan, Gas Mark 4).

Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the middle does not jiggle when you gently shake the baking pan.

Garnish with more herbs, if desired and serve warm.

Makes 8 servings.