Ask Mary: Thanksgiving

Mary,
Can you share some Thanksgiving cooking tips?
Leslie

Do you know what to do to make your Thanksgiving meal great? It is not as difficult as you may think to cook for your family and friends, but some advance planning is suggested. Here are a few things that you may want to consider when cooking your Thanksgiving feast.

1. Cook your turkey for 20 minutes per lb at 350 degrees F.
2. Don’t pack your turkey with stuffing. This can lead to bacterial contamination (and no one wants that on Thanksgiving!). Cook stuffing separately.
3. Add chicken stock to the base of your chicken to keep it nice and juicy.
4. Brining your turkey is always a good way to keep the moisture in too.
5. Important – If you don’t overcook your turkey then it won’t be dry.
6. Make anything you can the day before. Green beans, stuffing, peeled potatoes, pies, and cranberry sauce are all great day-before dishes. Preparing prep items, like chopped onions, celery and carrots, can also save time.
7. Set your table the day before.
8. Let your turkey rest for about 30 to 45 minutes before serving.
9. Don't fret. You can always cheat and buy already prepped things to make your life easier. (I like to make the meal from scratch, but cheating is okay if you don't have time to do so).
10. Plan your menu ahead of time.

Good Luck, and Happy Thanksgiving!
Mary

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