bread dressing with leeks

before preparing the bread dressing, it is very important to clean the bunch of leeks.  i slice them in half, separate the leaves and allow them to soak in cold water while thoroughly cleaning them before cutting into pieces for the dish.

other ingredients for the dressing include:  celery, yellow onions, salt, pepper, and bacon.  after chopping the celery, onion and slicing the bacon, i prepare the casserole dish.  it must be sprayed with canola or olive oil prior to cooking the dressing.  next, i make the broth.  using bouillon cubes, i make several cups of chicken, turkey or vegetable broth.  this year, i used vegetable broth for the dressing.

toast your crusty croutons or pre purchase croutons in the deli.  i find that these are much better quality than the bagged croutons, providing a better dressing. mix the croutons and other ingredients together after they have been sauteed in a large skillet with a bit of olive oil.  after the ingredients are mixed, add enough broth to moisten but not allow the croutons to become too soft.  place the dressing in the casserole dish and bake in the oven at 350 degrees for about 35 to 45 minutes.

 here are photos of the bread dressing before and after baking.  if you prepare the bread dressing earlier than needed, be certain to place in the refrigerator to keep cold before baking.