Most of our meals aren’t much in terms of thought required or advance planning. We just whip something together to keep the family fed. Thanksgiving is such a different beast altogether…
First, the bird, if you are cooking a turkey, is ridiculously large and awkward. Second, you don’t just have 2 side dishes, you have to put out much more. Lastly, and I think the most challenging item is who is coming to dinner and what are their expectations? Are people going to bring food? drink? Do you have some folks who will be assisting you in the kitchen whether you asked them or not? So much of Thanksgiving stress really does emanate from the social aspect of the holiday.
One victory would be to get that turkey cooked right. Another one, would be that you have that turkey resting comfortably while the other side dishes are being constructed, warmed etc. If you could wash away that big worry of the turkey, you’ll have energy for that other stuff.. some that I can’t fix with a fancy cooking suggestion..
Click on the image for my video on turkey prep and dry brining as a solid first step. Happy Thanksgiving Nosh Nation!
Eat.Drink.Savor.