- Onions, finely chopped (to add depth to the flavor)
- Garlic cloves, minced (for an aromatic base)
- Brown rice (1 cup uncooked) (perfect for a hearty texture and nutrition)
- Chicken broth (enriches the flavor of the dish)
- Thyme leaves (dried or fresh) (key herb for seasoning)
- Salt and pepper (to taste) (essential for seasoning)
- Olive oil (for cooking) (healthy fat addition)
- Cinnamon (optional, for a sweet touch in stuffing) (improves the overall flavor profile)
Keywords:
- acorn squash
- apple stuffed
- rice recipe
- healthy ingredients
- seasonal vegetables
- comforting dish
Steps
### Apple Stuffed Squash Rice Recipe: A Delicious Autumn Dish
**Introduction**
Apple stuffed squash rice is a delightful autumn dish that combines the rich flavors of squash with the sweetness of apples and the comforting warmth of rice. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this recipe is easy to prepare yet packed with flavor.
#### Ingredients
- 2 medium-sized acorn squash
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth (adjust as needed)
- 2 apples, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
#### Step-by-Step Instructions
**Step 1: Prepare the Squash**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the acorn squash in half, lengthwise.
3. Scoop out the seeds and fibers from each half using a spoon.
**Step 2: Cook the Rice**
1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring broth to a boil over high heat.
3. Add the rinsed rice and reduce heat to low.
4. Cover and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed.
**Step 3: Prepare the Apple Mixture**
1. Heat a small skillet over medium heat.
2. Add diced apples, chopped walnuts, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the apples are soft but not mushy.
**Step 4: Stuff the Squash Halves**
1. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it gently with a fork.
2. Divide the hot rice evenly between the acorn squash halves.
3. Top each half with the apple mixture.
4. Arrange the stuffed squash halves in an oven-safe baking dish.
**Step 5: Bake and Serve**
1. Place the baking dish into your preheated oven.
2. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the top of the squash starts to turn golden brown.
3. Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and serve immediately.
#### Tips for Success
- Ensure that you use fresh apples for the best flavor.
- You can substitute walnuts with pecans if preferred.
- Adjust the amount of broth depending on how moist or dry you like your rice.
- For a vegan version, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
#### SEO-Friendly Formatting
**Apple Stuffed Squash Rice Recipe**: A delicious autumn dish that combines squash and apple. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this recipe is easy to prepare yet packed with flavor.
**Ingredients**:
- 2 medium-sized acorn squash
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
- 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth (adjust as needed)
- 2 apples, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- Salt to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
**Steps**:
1. Prepare the squash.
2. Cook the rice.
3. Prepare the apple mixture.
4. Stuff the squash halves.
5. Bake and serve.
**Tips for Success**:
- Use fresh apples for best flavor.
- Substitute walnuts with pecans if preferred.
- Adjust broth amount to taste.
This recipe is perfect for those who enjoy a hearty autumn dish that can be enjoyed year-round, thanks to its versatility in ingredients. Try it out today and impress your guests!