Brown Rice or Quinoa Apple & Kale Stuffing

INGREDIENTS:

1 cup uncooked brown or wild rice or quinoa 

2½ cup water or vegetable broth

1 Tablespoon coconut oil 

¾ cup chopped onion

1 cup sliced mushrooms

1 cup chopped apple

¼ cup dried cranberries (optional)

1½ cup diced celery

1 bunch chopped kale or other leafy green

½ teaspoon salt, ¼ t. black pepper

1 Tablespoon poultry seasoning or thyme and rosemary

Handful fresh parsley chopped

½ cup vegetable or chicken broth

Nutritional yeast

DIRECTIONS:

Rinse rice or quinoa with water until water is clear. Place rice or quinoa in water or broth and bring to boil. Reduce heat, cover and cook until all water is absorbed, stirring frequently. Rice: 35 minutes Quinoa:15 minutes.

Heat oil over medium heat in skillet. Add onions, mushrooms, apple, cranberries and celery. sauté until tender. Add salt, pepper and poultry seasoning. Continue to stir slowly until fragrant, about 10 minutes. Combine the cooked grains, fruit/vegetable mixture and broth in a large bowl. For stuffing: stuff turkey with combined mixture. For dressing: Preheat oven to 250 degrees F, put combined mixture into a greased baking dish, top with nutritional yeast and bake for 15 minutes. Top with fresh chopped parsley.

Photo Credit: https://www.goya.com/en/recipes/quinoa-and-brown-rice-stuffing

BENEFITS

This wholesome stuffing is a flavorful, nutrient-rich twist on a classic! Brown rice or quinoa serves as a hearty base, offering fiber, protein, and essential minerals like magnesium. The mushrooms, apples, and celery add a mix of antioxidants, while kale boosts the dish with vitamins A, C, and K. Dried cranberries provide a pop of natural sweetness and additional antioxidants. Seasoned with thyme, rosemary, and a bit of nutritional yeast for a cheesy, savory depth, this stuffing is a deliciously balanced side that’s packed with plant-based nutrition and perfect for a holiday meal.