Vegetarian Stuffing: A Veggie Twist on Thanksgiving

A delicious Vegetarian Stuffing might be just what your Thanksgiving table needs! I’m skipping the traditional turkey stuffing and embracing a plant-based alternative. It’s fitting for Stuffing Day (Nov 21). Who says Thanksgiving sides can’t be both traditional and innovative?

Vegetarian stuffing recipe

Vegetarian stuffing is a plant-based version of the stuffing. It often includes cubed crumbled bread, vegetables, herbs, and broth. It is then oven-baked to golden perfection. Some prefer stuffing with sage, thyme, and nuts. Others use apples or chestnuts for variation.

The vegan stuffing is often stuffed inside the turkey for holiday Thanksgiving. It can also be stuffed inside fish, pork, vegetables, or tofu. Since I make the vegetarian version, I’ll bake it separately in a dish.

Here’s how to make the vegetarian stuffing for Thanksgiving:

Vegetarian Stuffing

A green and healthier option for Thanksgiving. Each bite delivers a wonderful mix of textures – from crispy bread edges to tender vegetables – all infused with classic stuffing flavors like sage, thyme, and rosemary.

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Total Time 55 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine Mediterranean

Servings 8

Calories 200 kcal

Ingredients

  

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• 1 loaf of whole-grain bread cubed
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 cup diced onion
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup chopped mushrooms
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 tsp dried sage
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

 

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, celery, and carrots, and sauté until they’re softened.
  
• Toss in the garlic and mushrooms, continuing to sauté until the mushrooms are golden brown.
• Pour in the vegetable broth and add the dried herbs—thyme, rosemary, sage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
• In a large mixing bowl, combine the cubed bread, sautéed vegetables, cranberries, and walnuts. Mix everything together until well combined.
• Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
• Bake in the preheated oven for about 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
• Once done, let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Nutrition

Calories: 200kcal

Keyword baking recipes, Christmas recipe, healthy recipes, holiday, homemade stuffing, Thanksgiving recipe, vegan recipe, vegetarian stuffing

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Pairing suggestions

Vegetarian stuffing complements a variety of drinks and main courses, especially during festive occasions like Thanksgiving or Christmas.

Drinks

1. Cocktails
   • Moscow mule adds a zesty kick to savory dishes.
   • Pomegranate spritzer enhances a festive vibe and complements stuffing.
2. Wine
   • White wine like Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Grigio balances savory stuffing flavors.
   • Red wine like Pinot Noir and Gamay offers a fruity contrast to the dish.
3. Beer
   • Light ales complement the stuffing’s herbs and spices.
   • Amber ales provide a malty flavor that matches savory notes.
4. Non-Alcoholic Options
   • Sparkling water adds a refreshing twist with lemon or lime.
   • Herbal teas offer a soothing contrast to rich stuffing flavors.
   • Apple cider adds a sweet and spicy complement to stuffing.

Food pairings

1. Main Dishes
   • Vegan roast turkey provides a hearty centerpiece for festive meals.
   • Stuffed acorn squash showcases sweet flavors and a beautiful presentation.
   • Shepherd’s pie can be vegan and pairs well with stuffing.
   • Seitan loaf adds a meaty texture and complements stuffing.
2. Side Dishes
   • Mashed potatoes are traditional and pair perfectly with stuffing.
   • Vegan green bean casserole enhances your plate with creamy, savory flavors.
   • Roasted vegetables highlight seasonal flavors like roasted carrots and Brussels sprouts.
   • Apple salad with hazelnuts adds crunch and balances savory dishes.
3. Sauces and Condiments
   • Vegan gravy elevates meals with moisture and rich flavor.
   • Mushroom gravy pairs well with stuffing and earthy dishes.

Variations

From this vegetarian stuffing, you can create different variations:

1. Grain-Based Alternatives:
   • Add Wild rice and roasted chestnut
   • Include quinoa with dried fruits and nuts
   • Use brown rice and lentil medley
2. Mediterranean Inspiration
   • Replace cranberries with sun-dried tomatoes
   • Use pine nuts instead of walnuts
   • Add kalamata olives
   • Include fresh basil and oregano
   • Add crumbled feta cheese (if not vegan)
3. Asian Fusion
   • Switch bread for cooked wild rice
   • Replace cranberries with water chestnuts
   • Add bok choy instead of celery
   • Use shiitake mushrooms
   • Include ginger and lemongrass
   • Add toasted sesame seeds
   • Use soy sauce instead of salt
4. Fall Harvest Version
   • Add diced apple
   • Use pecans instead of walnuts
   • Include roasted butternut squash
   • Add fresh pomegranate seeds
   • Use sourdough bread
   • Include fresh parsley
   • Add maple syrup drizzle
5. Wild Mushroom
   • Use a mix of portobello, porcini, and oyster mushrooms
   • Add truffle oil
   • Include fresh chives
   • Use hazelnuts instead of walnuts
   • Add caramelized shallots
   • Include fresh tarragon
   • Use wild rice bread
6. Southwest Variation
   • Add black beans
   • Include corn kernels
   • Use pepitas instead of walnuts
   • Add diced bell peppers
   • Include jalapeños for heat
   • Use cilantro and cumin
   • Add lime zest

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