Best Turkey Stuffing Recipe!

Thanksgiving Veal Stuffing Recipe: A Delicious Twist for Veal Lovers

Thanksgiving stuffing is a nostalgic dish that often carries memories of family traditions. But if you’re open to a little culinary adventure and love veal, this recipe offers a fabulous twist on the classic stuffing. Packed with rich flavors, subtle sweetness, and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Serves: Perfect for a 12-lb turkey (adjust quantities as needed).

Ingredients:

• 1 ½ lbs ground veal
• 1 ½ lbs chopped mushrooms
• A handful each of light and dark raisins
• Toasted pine nuts (about ½ cup)
• 1 celery stalk with leaves, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cups rice
• Chicken stock (enough to cook the rice)
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 1 large apple, diced
• 12 chestnuts, boiled and chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A handful of chopped parsley
• Grated cheese (optional, for added flavor)
• Olive oil and butter

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Veal Mixture:

   • Heat a large skillet with a combination of olive oil and butter. Sauté the chopped onion until golden and fragrant.
   • Add the ground veal and cook until browned and no longer pink.
   • Stir in the chopped celery and apple, cooking until softened.
   • Remove from heat and mix in the raisins and toasted pine nuts. Set aside.

2. Cook the Rice:

   • In a smaller pot, cook the rice and chopped carrots in chicken stock. Simmer until the rice is tender and fully cooked.

3. Prepare the Chestnuts:

   • Boil the chestnuts in water for 10 minutes.
   • Peel the chestnuts while still warm, then chop them into small pieces.

4. Sauté the Mushrooms:

   • In a separate pan, brown the chopped mushrooms in a small amount of butter. Drain any excess liquid.

5. Combine Everything:

   • In a large bowl, mix the veal mixture with the cooked rice and carrots, chopped chestnuts, and sautéed mushrooms.
   • Add the chopped parsley, salt, and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, mix in some grated cheese.

6. Prepare for Thanksgiving:

   • This stuffing can be made 1–2 days ahead. Use it to stuff your turkey, or bake any leftovers in a buttered casserole dish until warm and slightly crisp on top.

The combination of sweet raisins, nutty chestnuts, and savory veal creates a beautifully balanced stuffing that pairs wonderfully with your Thanksgiving feast. Whether used inside the turkey or served on the side, this recipe brings a unique and memorable flavor to your holiday table.

Pro Tip: Serve leftovers with a drizzle of turkey gravy or alongside roasted vegetables for an irresistible next-day treat!

Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃