In a large deep skillet, saute 1 each chopped onion and carrot, 2 chopped celery stalks and 1 tablespoon each sage and thyme in 1 stick butter for 5 minutes.

Season with salt and pepper and add 2 diced Bosc pears, then saute 2 minutes.

Pour in 1/4 cup bourbon and simmer 2 minutes, then add 2 1/2 to 3 cups chicken broth. Return to a simmer until step 5.

In a large bowl, mix 2 eggs and 1/4 cup chopped parsley.

Add to the bowl 16 cups toasted white bread cubes, 1 cup toasted pecans and the hot broth mixture.

Gently toss the stuffing, then spread in a buttered 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Dot the top with butter or turkey pan drippings, cover and bake 30 minutes at 350. Uncover and bake until golden, 20 more minutes.

Photograph by Karl Juengel/Studio D