2 cup (500 mL) long grain rice, cooked according to package directions
1+1/2 cup (375 mL) dried mixed fruit
1 cup (250 mL) chopped onion
2 (2) cloves garlic, minced
3/4 cup (175 mL) EACH finely chopped celery and fresh parsley
2 tsp (10 mL) EACH chopped fresh sage and thyme
1/4 cup (50 mL) slivered almonds
1/2 cup (125 mL) vegetable broth
5 -7 slices bacon (thin)
Method
Cut roast down center lengthwise to within 1/2-inch of bottom. Open roast to lie flat. On each half, make a lengthwise slit down center to within 1/2-inch of bottom. Sprinkle with salt, garlic powder and pepper.
In large bowl, combine cooked rice, dried fruit, onion, celery, parsley, sage , thyme, almonds and broth. Mix well.
Divide half the stuffing among the three slits. Roll up roast from long side. Tie with butcher string at 2-inch intervals.
Place remaining stuffing in greased shallow baking dish*. Set aside.
Place roast in roasting pan. Roast, uncovered at 350 F for 2 hours.
Carefully remove string. Place bacon strips over top. Roast 30 – 45 minutes longer or until internal temperature reaches 155 F (68 C). Tent loosely with foil. Let rest 10 minutes before slicing.
Tips
To heat reserved stuffing: Cover. Bake 30 minutes or until heated through.