Introduction
The “Spinach, Fennel, and Sausage Stuffing with Toasted Brioche” recipe combines the richness of brioche or challah with a medley of fresh vegetables and savory sausage. This delectable dish celebrates classic flavors while offering an innovative twist on traditional stuffing, perfect for both holiday feasts and everyday enjoyment.
Tips for this recipe
To ensure the best results: preheat your oven to avoid uneven cooking; handle hot sausages with care due to their high internal temperature; finely chop vegetables uniformly for even cooking; and measure ingredients precisely, especially when brioche cubes are involved.
Why you will love this recipe
This dish is a crowd-pleaser that promises to impress with its intricate layers of flavors from the nutty sausage, tender spinach, and robust fennel. Its hearty nature makes it ideal for sharing during gatherings, while the buttery brioche offers a comforting endnote that’s sure to earn rave reviews.
Ingredients
1 loaf brioche or challah (about 12 ounces), cut into 1″ cubes
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
1 pound hot Italian sausage, casing removed
4 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided, plus more for dish
1 yellow onion, chopped (about 1 1/2 cups)
1 medium fennel bulb, cored and coarsely chopped (about 3 cups)
4 large eggs, beaten
2 1/2 cups low-salt chicken broth
2 pounds frozen spinach, thawed, well squeezed, coarsely chopped
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 1/2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper
1 1/2 teaspoons fennel seeds
Adviced equipments
– Meat Grinder with Attachments (grinder bowl and plates)
– Hand Blender with Accessories (for pureeing fennel or spinach)
– Stainless Steel Roasting Pan (for roasting sausages or meat)
– Large Chef’s Knife (for vegetable preparation)
– Mandoline Slicer (for uniform vegetable slices)
– High-Speed Hand Mixer (for thorough mixing of ingredients)
– Cutting Board (for safe food preparation)
– Mini Food Processor (mincing small quantities of vegetables and cheese)
– Heatproof Silicone Spatula (for stirring and scraping pans)
– Chef’s Linen Towels (for drying ingredients and surface protection)
– Digital Food Scale (for precise ingredient measurements)
History of the recipe
The origin of stuffing dishes dates back to ancient times, where a variety of ingredients were used to fill animal casings or bread. “Spinach, Fennel, and Sausage Stuffing with Toasted Brioche” reflects the evolution of this culinary concept by incorporating modern cooking techniques and local produce to create a refined yet traditional stuffing experience that pays homage to its heritage while embracing contemporary gastronomy.
Fun facts about this recipe
Did you know? Brioche has French origins, with its name stemming from the Old French term “brienne” or “brianne,” meaning “twice-baked.” This particular recipe highlights brioche’s versatited role in both sweet and savory applications. Additionally, fennel is not just a key ingredient but also carries a historical significance due to its use by ancient civilizations for medicinal purposes before becoming a culinary staple.
