stuffing

thumb|Stuffing a domesticated turkey|turkey thumb|Stuffed Turkey as food|turkey thumb|right|Chilean empanada with ground meat stuffing

Stuffing, filling, or dressing is an edible mixture, often composed of herbs and a starch such as bread, used to fill a cavity in the preparation of another food item. Many foods may be stuffed, including poultry, seafood, and vegetables. As a cooking technique, stuffing helps retain moisture, while the mixture itself augments and absorbs flavors.