Sage & Onion Bread Pudding
Description
This traditional Sage and Onion Bread Pudding is a comforting, savory side dish that transforms stale bread into a rich, custardy delight. The base of coarse breadcrumbs soaks up a flavorful mixture of sauted onions, garlic, and chicken broth, creating a soft, moist interior. Fresh herbs like sage and thyme provide an earthy, aromatic depth, while the egg and half-and-half custard binds everything together, resulting in a golden-brown, firm-yet-tender texture. It is an excellent accompaniment to roast meats, particularly chicken or pork, but also stands alone as a hearty vegetarian option.Ingredients
Directions
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Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (177C).
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If bread is not already dry, spread coarse bread crumbs on a cookie sheet and dry in the oven for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crisp.
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Melt 4 tablespoons of butter in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
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Add diced onions and cook until lightly colored and tender, about 10-15 minutes.
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Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Pour in chicken broth, remove from heat, and allow to cool completely.
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In a large mixing bowl, beat eggs and half-and-half together.
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Stir in dried sage, thyme, nutmeg, and freshly ground black pepper.
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Add the cooled onion and broth mixture to the egg mixture and stir well.
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Fold in the dried bread crumbs and mix thoroughly until all crumbs are moistened.
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Press the mixture down firmly with the back of a spoon and let it rest for 30 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid.
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Thoroughly butter a souffl dish or loaf pan.
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Spoon the mixture firmly into the prepared pan.
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Bang the pan sharply on a hard surface a couple of times to settle the ingredients, then smooth the top with your fingers.
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Dot the surface with the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter.
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Bake for about 45 minutes, or until firm and nicely browned on top. Do not overbake.
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Serve hot, at room temperature, or cold.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 6
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 219.0kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 7.8g12%
- Saturated Fat 3.0g15%
- Cholesterol 48.1mg17%
- Sodium 232.2mg10%
- Total Carbohydrate 28.8g10%
- Dietary Fiber 3.8g16%
- Sugars 2.1g
- Protein 8.1g17%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
This pudding can be made a day ahead. Bake it in a loaf pan, chill thoroughly, slice, and saut in butter for a delicious breakfast or brunch item served with scrambled eggs and bacon.
For a richer flavor, you can layer the pudding with oysters and a splash of dry sherry before baking.
This dish pairs excellently with ham, pork chops, or homemade coarse applesauce.
While traditionally baked, this recipe can also be steamed in a pudding mold if preferred.
Ensure the onion and broth mixture cools before adding to the eggs to prevent curdling.