KATHY’S HOME & GARDEN TIPS – Thanksgiving tips and shortcuts Part 1

So, you’ve decided to host Thanksgiving dinner this year. Congrats! Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. Any holiday spent around eating great food is number one in my books. There are many shortcuts and tips to make the day go smoothly and let you have some fun not spending the entire day in the kitchen.

Make sure if you have turkey that you leave enough time for it to thaw. You need one day for every 4 pounds frozen. Always thaw in the refrigerator for safety. Place the turkey in a large glass dish, I use a glass cake pan. Put it on the lowest shelf in the fridge. This keeps the chance for cross contamination at a minimum. If you prefer a fresh turkey order early! I’ve purchased the fancy expensive ones in the past but have not found them worth the price. I’ve used Butterball® for years and they always turn out well. Never stuff before roasting! It’s too dangerous, stuffing does not always reach safe temperature levels by the time the turkey is done.

Planning for such a large meal can often overwhelm cooks that are not experienced. Don’t let that stop you. I am a great list maker. First start with your menu. Use a large legal pad. Write your menu on the left side of the page. Leave a few lines in between for cooking schedule. On the right-hand side write your shopping list. I check off items as I purchase. Stuffing cubes, canned goods, snacks and even perishables like butter can be purchased well ahead of time. I found butter at Jewel last weekend for $1.88!! Many stores continue their sales through Thanksgiving so shop early!

Along with planning the menu it’s good to gather all the dishes and serving pieces you will need. Follow your menu and set out the dishes on the dining room table. I rewash everything, especially pieces I use infrequently. Throw a clean white sheet over the table to keep the pieces free from dust. Need more serving pieces? Borrow! Or check out department stores. Many have housewares on sale during holiday season. For cooking I use disposable aluminum as much as I can but always have a pretty dish for serving. Matching not necessary! I have many old dishes given to me by family members no longer with us. It’s nice to reminisce at holiday time and remember those passed.

Next week we’ll go over shortcuts for the big day.

KATHLEEN WEAVER-ZECH & DEAN’S TEAM CHICAGO