Caramelised onion, pear and chestnut stuffing

Table of contents

Caramelised Onion, Pear and Chestnut Stuffing

This Caramelised Onion, Pear and Chestnut Stuffing is a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for your holiday table. The sweetness of caramelised onions and pears pairs beautifully with the earthy richness of chestnuts, creating a stuffing that’s both unique and comforting. It’s a wonderful accompaniment to roasted meats or as a standalone vegetarian dish.

Serving Size and Yield

Serves approximately 8 people.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 1 hour

Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 large onions, thinly sliced
2 ripe pears, peeled, cored, and diced
200g cooked chestnuts, roughly chopped
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1/2 cup vegetable or chicken stock
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the onions by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are soft and caramelised, about 20 minutes.
Add the diced pears to the skillet and cook for an additional 5 minutes, until the pears are tender.
Stir in the chopped chestnuts and thyme leaves, cooking for another 2 minutes to combine the flavors.
Pour in the stock and bring the mixture to a simmer. Allow it to cook for 5 minutes, letting the flavors meld together.
Mix in the breadcrumbs, stirring until they are fully incorporated and the mixture is moist but not soggy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Transfer the stuffing to a baking dish and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 30 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy.
Serve hot as a side dish or stuffing for poultry.

Additional Notes

For a vegan version, use vegetable stock and ensure the breadcrumbs are vegan-friendly. You can also add a handful of dried cranberries for a touch of tartness.