Elevate your holiday meals or weeknight dinners with this irresistible Rice Apple and Raisin Dressing, a delightful twist on classic stuffing! This flavorful side dish combines fluffy, perfectly cooked long-grain rice with the natural sweetness of diced Granny Smith apple and plump raisins, balanced by the warm notes of cinnamon, nutmeg, and earthy thyme. A medley of vegetables—softened onions, crisp celery, and fragrant garlic—adds depth, while chopped pecans or walnuts bring a satisfying crunch to every bite. Finished with fresh parsley for brightness, this dish is cooked in vegetable broth and enriched with unsalted butter for a rich, savory undertone. Perfect as a stunning accompaniment to roasted meats or as a vegetarian side, this unique rice-based dressing is a mouthwatering blend of sweet and savory flavors, guaranteed to impress your guests. Ready in just 45 minutes, it’s a versatile, gluten-free alternative to traditional bread stuffing!
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming sticky.
In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Stir in the rice, lower the heat to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 15 minutes or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes, then fluff the rice with a fork.
While the rice is cooking, heat a large skillet over medium heat and melt the butter.
Add the chopped onion and celery to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are softened.
Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the diced apple to the skillet and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened.
Stir the raisins, chopped nuts, dried thyme, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and black pepper into the skillet. Cook for 2 more minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Remove the skillet from the heat and gently mix in the cooked rice, ensuring all ingredients are evenly combined.
Sprinkle the chopped parsley over the top and toss lightly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Serve warm as a side dish. Enjoy!
Calories |
1816 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 85.8 g | 110% | |
| Saturated Fat | 26.8 g | 134% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 93 mg | 31% | |
| Sodium | 4458 mg | 194% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 249.9 g | 91% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 33.6 g | 120% | |
| Total Sugars | 95.5 g | ||
| Protein | 34.6 g | 69% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 490 mg | 38% | |
| Iron | 12.4 mg | 69% | |
| Potassium | 3907 mg | 83% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.