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:
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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.
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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.
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Prepare the Chestnuts:
- Boil the chestnuts in water for 10 minutes.
- Peel the chestnuts while still warm, then chop them into small pieces.
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Sauté the Mushrooms:
- In a separate pan, brown the chopped mushrooms in a small amount of butter. Drain any excess liquid.
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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.
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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! 🦃