As the seasons change and the air gets crisper, there’s nothing like the comforting embrace of hearty, nutritious food. Our Gluten-Free Butternut Squash Wild Rice Stuffing with Pears and Pecans is the ultimate autumn dish, perfect for holiday gatherings or even a special weeknight dinner. Bursting with flavors of roasted butternut squash, earthy wild rice, sweet pears, and crunchy pecans, this dish is a beautiful blend of taste and texture. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it an ideal option for those with dietary restrictions. Let’s delve into how you can create this wholesome dish step-by-step.
Ingredients
– Wild Rice Mixture
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon salt
– Butternut Squash and Pears
– 1 medium butternut squash, peeled, seeded, and diced
– 2 ripe pears, cored and diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Stuffing Mix
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 tablespoon fresh thyme or 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 3 tablespoons olive oil or butter (use dairy-free butter for a fully vegan option)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook Wild Rice
1. Rinse the wild rice under cold water.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth, water, and salt to a boil.
3. Add the wild rice, reduce heat to a low simmer, and cover.
4. Cook for 45-50 minutes until the rice is tender. Drain any excess liquid.
Step 2: Roast Butternut Squash and Pears
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss the diced butternut squash and pears with olive oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 25-30 minutes or until the squash is tender and lightly browned, stirring halfway through.
Step 3: Sauté Vegetables
1. In a large skillet, heat 3 tablespoons of olive oil or butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and celery, cooking until they are softened, about 7-8 minutes.
3. Stir in the fresh thyme and parsley, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked wild rice, sautéed vegetables, roasted butternut squash, and pears.
2. Stir in the chopped pecans and dried cranberries.
Serving and Storage Tips
– Serving : This stuffing can be served warm as a side dish or main course. It pairs exceptionally well with roasted poultry, vegan roasts, or as part of a holiday spread.
– Storage : Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or stovetop until warmed through. For longer storage, freeze for up to a month.
Helpful Notes
– Make-Ahead Tip : You can prepare the wild rice and roast the squash and pears a day in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator and combine them just before serving.
– Substitutions : Feel free to swap pears with apples or add different nuts like walnuts for variation.
Tips from Well-Known Chefs
– Chef Jamie Oliver : For an added depth of flavor, try toasting the pecans before adding them to the stuffing.
– Chef Ina Garten : Always use fresh herbs when possible, as they bring more vibrant flavors to the dish.
– Chef Alton Brown : Balance the sweetness of the pears and squash with a splash of acid, like a drizzle of balsamic vinegar, just before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of squash?
Yes, you can substitute butternut squash with acorn squash or delicata squash.
2. How can I make this recipe nut-free?
Simply omit the pecans or replace them with sunflower seeds or pumpkin seeds.
3. Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, as long as you use olive oil or dairy-free butter, the recipe is completely vegan.
4. Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! Add cooked sausage, chickpeas, or tofu for a protein boost.
5. How do I prevent my pears from getting mushy?
Choose slightly firm pears and avoid over-roasting them.
6. Can I cook the rice in advance?
Yes, you can cook the rice up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
7. What other dried fruits can I add?
Feel free to add dried apricots, cherries, or raisins.
8. Can I freeze this dish after assembling?
Yes, it freezes well. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
9. How can I make this dish spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
10. What other herbs can I use?
Sage and rosemary can also add wonderful flavors to this stuffing.
With this guide, you’re all set to create a delightful and nutritious Gluten-Free Butternut Squash Wild Rice Stuffing with Pears and Pecans. Enjoy the cozy atmosphere, the heartwarming smells, and the incredible taste of this fabulous dish! Happy cooking!