As the cool autumn air begins to weave its way into my kitchen, I find myself craving the rich, comforting flavors that this season brings. Picture this: a warm, tender stuffing pin cushion, lovingly wrapped in crispy bacon. The very thought makes my mouth water! This is not just any stuffing; it’s a delightful blend of savory sausagemeat, sweet dried fruits, and a hint of aromatic sage that will make your taste buds dance.
The best part? This dish is surprisingly easy to prepare, bringing a gourmet flair to the table without the stress. Whether you’re looking to elevate your next family dinner, impress guests at your next gathering, or simply explore new flavors, this stuffing pin cushion is the perfect solution. It’s a crowd-pleaser that captures the essence of home-cooked comfort and lifts the spirit of any meal. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe and fill your kitchen with the wonderful scents of fall!
Why is this Stuffing Pin Cushion a Must-Try?
Decadent Flavor: The sweet and savory combination of sausagemeat with dried fruits creates a taste explosion that is hard to resist.
Easy Prep: You can get ahead by prepping the stuffing up to 48 hours in advance, making it a fantastic time-saver for busy days.
Crowd-Pleasing Delight: Serve this dish at any gathering and watch your guests rave about it! It’s a guaranteed winner at holiday dinners or family feasts.
Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to switch up the dried fruits or add your favorite herbs for a personalized twist!
Impressive Presentation: With its beautiful bacon wrap, this stuffing pin cushion makes for an eye-catching centerpiece on your table.
Treat yourself and your loved ones to this delectable recipe that combines ease with the extraordinary—your kitchen will thank you!
Stuffing Pin Cushion Ingredients
For the Base
• Rapeseed oil – a light oil ideal for sautéing your onions.
• Red onions – sliced for sweetness and flavor.
• Garlic cloves – finely chopped to add aromatic depth.
• Pork sausagemeat – the heart of the stuffing, giving it richness.
• Fresh breadcrumbs – for binding and texture, feel free to substitute with whole grain for added nutrition.
For the Flavor
• Cooked peeled chestnuts – chopped for a delightful crunch and earthy flavor.
• Dried apricots – sweet pieces to balance the savory elements.
• Prunes – chopped, they provide a hint of sweetness and moisture.
• Pine nuts – for a lovely nutty flavor that enhances the stuffing.
• Fresh sage – chopped to infuse an aromatic note, perfect for your stuffing pin cushion.
• Ground nutmeg – just a pinch to elevate the warmth of the dish.
For the Wrap
• Streaky bacon – 22-24 rashers, lending a crispy, delicious layer that keeps the stuffing moist and flavorful.
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to creating a truly memorable stuffing pin cushion that is sure to impress!
How to Make Stuffing Pin Cushion
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Prepare Ahead: If time allows, prep the stuffing mixture up to 48 hours in advance, storing it chilled to deepen the flavors. This will save you time on the day you serve it.
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Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 190°C (fan 170°C, gas 5) so it’s hot and ready when you need it. A well-preheated oven ensures even cooking for the stuffing pin cushion.
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Sauté Onions: Heat the rapeseed oil in a large frying pan and gently sauté the sliced red onions for about 5-6 minutes, until they are soft and translucent. Then, add the finely chopped garlic and cook for an additional 2 minutes before setting aside to cool.
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Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the pork sausagemeat with the cooled onion and garlic mixture along with breadcrumbs, chopped chestnuts, apricots, prunes, pine nuts, sage, and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper, and mix well with your hands until everything is thoroughly combined.
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Wrap in Bacon: Lay out a large sheet of foil on your work surface and arrange the streaky bacon rashers in a fanned circle, overlapping slightly. Shape the stuffing into a round cushion and place it in the center. Bring the bacon up over the stuffing, securing the ends with cocktail sticks. Transfer the wrapped cushion to a baking tray and cover with foil.
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Roast: Place the tray in your preheated oven and roast for about 1 hour and 30 minutes. After 45 minutes, uncover it to allow the bacon to crisp up nicely. Cook until the sausagemeat is fully cooked through and the bacon is golden and crisp.
Optional: Serve with your favorite gravy for an extra flavor boost!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Helpful Tricks for Stuffing Pin Cushion
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Chill for Flavor: Prepare the stuffing up to 48 hours in advance and chill. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, enhancing the overall taste.
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Avoid Overmixing: Mix the ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to a dense stuffing pin cushion—light hands are key!
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Crispy Bacon: Uncover the dish for the last 45 minutes of roasting. This ensures the bacon gets browned and crispy, adding texture to your dish.
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Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and good-quality sausagemeat. Fresh ingredients significantly elevate the flavor profile of your stuffing.
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Secure Tight: Make sure to securely wrap the bacon around the stuffing. If it’s too loose, the stuffing may dry out during cooking.
How to Store and Freeze Stuffing Pin Cushion
Fridge: Store the cooked stuffing pin cushion in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s properly sealed to keep it moist and fresh.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the cooled stuffing pin cushion tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: To reheat, place the thawed stuffing pin cushion in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 25-30 minutes, or until heated through. A bit of extra bacon on top can help refresh its flavor!
Room Temperature: If you’re serving at a gathering, don’t leave the stuffing pin cushion out for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety and quality.
Make Ahead Options
These Stuffing Pin Cushions are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can prepare the stuffing mixture up to 48 hours in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge to maintain its freshness. Additionally, you can form the bacon-wrapped cushion and refrigerate it overnight; this not only enhances the flavor but also streamlines your cooking process for busy weeknights. When you’re ready to serve, just preheat your oven, and roast the prepared dish according to the original instructions for delightful results that are just as delicious and decadent as if made fresh on the spot!
Stuffing Pin Cushion Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe by adding your own twist to it, transforming it into something special!
- Turkey Sausage: Swap pork sausagemeat for turkey for a lighter version that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: Use lentils or plant-based sausage for a delicious vegetarian stuffing pin cushion that everyone can enjoy.
- Nut Allergies: Replace pine nuts with sunflower seeds for a nut-free crunch without losing texture.
- Fruity Twist: Incorporate dried figs or cherries instead of apricots and prunes for a sweet surprise.
- Herb Explosion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the aroma and flavor profile.
- Cheesy Delight: Add a blend of shredded cheddar or feta to the mixture. The gooey cheese will add richness and depth!
- Heat It Up: Toss in some chopped jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick that brings warmth to each bite.
- Whole Grain Bread: Use whole grain breadcrumbs instead of white for added fiber and a nutty flavor that complements the stuffing beautifully.
With these variations, you can adapt the stuffing pin cushion to match your mood or dietary preferences while still retaining that comforting essence. Enjoy the journey of flavor!
What to Serve with Stuffing Pin Cushion?
Create a memorable meal by pairing this delightful dish with complementary sides and drinks that enhance its rich flavors.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: The velvety texture of mashed potatoes perfectly contrasts with the stuffing pin cushion, making each bite comforting.
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Roasted Root Vegetables: A mix of seasonal veggies adds beautiful color and a hint of sweetness, balancing the savory elements beautifully.
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Apple Cider Salad: A fresh, crisp salad with tart apples and crunchy walnuts complements the rich bacon and sausagemeat in a delightful way.
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Savory Gravy: Drizzling a rich homemade gravy over the stuffing pin cushion amplifies moisture and flavor, taking every bite to the next level.
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Buttered Green Beans: Bright green beans, lightly sautéed in butter, offer a fresh crunch that contrasts the softness of the stuffing pin cushion.
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Warm Mulled Wine: This spiced drink echoes the warmth of the dish, creating a cozy atmosphere perfect for gathering with family and friends.
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Pumpkin Pie: End your meal on a sweet note with a slice of classic pumpkin pie, echoing the fall flavors of the stuffing while adding a delicious sweetness.
Each of these pairings enhances the comforting essence of the stuffing pin cushion, inviting your family and friends to savor the moment together.
Stuffing Pin Cushion Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right sausagemeat for my stuffing pin cushion?
Absolutely! For the best flavor, look for high-quality sausagemeat with a good balance of meat and fat. A blend of pork shoulder and pork belly is ideal, as it ensures a juicy stuffing. If you’d like to spice things up, consider using a flavored sausagemeat like apple or herb-infused varieties!
How long can I store my cooked stuffing pin cushion in the fridge?
I recommend properly sealing your cooked stuffing pin cushion in an airtight container and storing it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensure it’s cool before transferring it to keep it moist and fresh. If you want to serve it later, consider freezing it!
Can I freeze the stuffing pin cushion? If so, how?
Yes, you can absolutely freeze your stuffing pin cushion! First, allow it to cool completely. Then, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap followed by a layer of foil to prevent freezer burn. It can last up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven!
What are some common issues I might face while making this dish?
If you find your stuffing pin cushion is too dense, it’s usually because the ingredients were overmixed. Aim to combine everything just until it’s mixed! If you’re worried about dryness, ensure that your bacon wraps tightly around the stuffing. This keeps the moisture in while roasting.
Can my pets enjoy some of the stuffing pin cushion?
While it’s tempting to share, be cautious. Pork can be high in fat, and the prunes may not be suitable for all pets. Always consult your veterinarian if you’re unsure. To treat your furry friend, consider making a special pet-safe version without spices or dried fruits.
What’s the best way to reheat my leftover stuffing pin cushion?
To reheat, simply preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Place the thawed stuffing pin cushion onto a baking tray and cover with foil to prevent it from drying out. Heat for about 25-30 minutes or until warmed through. For an extra boost, place some fresh bacon on top before reheating!
Let these FAQs guide you to a truly delightful stuffing pin cushion experience—all while adding a touch of warmth to your kitchen!
Delicious Stuffing Pin Cushion Wrapped in Bacon Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Prepare ahead by mixing the stuffing mixture up to 48 hours in advance, store it chilled.
- Preheat the oven to 190°C (fan 170°C, gas 5).
- Heat rapeseed oil in a large frying pan and sauté sliced red onions for 5-6 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 2 more minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine pork sausagemeat, cooled onion mixture, breadcrumbs, chestnuts, apricots, prunes, pine nuts, sage, and nutmeg. Mix well with hands.
- Lay streaky bacon rashers in a fanned circle on foil. Shape stuffing into a round cushion and place in the center, wrap bacon and secure with cocktail sticks.
- Place wrapped cushion in a baking tray, cover with foil, and roast for 1 hour and 30 minutes, uncovering after 45 minutes for crisping.