In my best Estelle Getty impression, “Picture it, Thanksgiving, last year.” This probably brings back multiple emotions of the holiday. This could include smiles from the family being together and sharing stories, to the horror of Uncles and screaming children. Regardless of what emotional chord Thanksgiving may have for you, there is no denying the “big feast” is a huge part of the day. Thanksgiving is no easy meal to prepare, and impressing your relatives with boxed up mashed potatoes simply won’t cut it. But before you tackle the meal, here are five common mistakes and easy fixes to not only make your kitchen journey easier but that much more delicious.
Mistake #1: Dry turkey
Quick Fix: Ever hear of brining? The most flavor filled and tender juicy pieces of meat are almost always brined. A brine is code for a salt water mixture that you soak a cut of meat in for a period of time. The salt allows the tissues in the meat to absorb water, so if you add more flavor to your brine, more flavor is absorbed. The heavy dose of salt will also help break down some of the proteins, so no tough meat here.
Turkey Brine
1 large bucket or large stock pot (big enough for turkey and roughly 2 gallons of water)
2 large bags of ice
4 cups of orange juice
2 cups of water 1½ cups kosher salt
1 cup brown sugar
1 cinnamon stick
6 bay leaves
½ tsp. whole allspice
1 lemon, sliced
1 orange, sliced
3 cloves garlic, skin removed, whole
3 cups honey (24 oz)
Combine the orange, lemon, brown sugar, water, honey, cinnamon, bay leaves, allspice, garlic, honey and salt in a sauce pan. Cook mixture at medium heat and stir just until all the salt, sugar, and honey are dissolved. Add one bag of ice to bucket or pot then pour your cooked mixture over it so the ice begins to melt. Submerge your turkey into the liquid and pour the other bag of ice on top of it. Store in the refrigerator overnight. Before cooking, drain off all the liquid and spices.
Mistake #2: Overcooked/undercooked turkey
Quick Fix: To avoid the overcooked or undercooked turkey, be sure to read the directions and cook it to the recommended temperature or just slightly below it. When it’s done, remove it from the oven and allow it time to rest. Wrap some aluminum foil over top of it and allow the juices to redistribute. Another popular trick is to cook a fresh turkey instead of a frozen one, which is also helpful if you don’t have the time or space to allow a frozen turkey to properly thaw. And go ahead and rub some butter under the turkey skin because butter always makes everything taste better!
Mistake #3: Lumpy mashed potatoes
Quick Fix: The key to serving a delicious bowl of mashed potatoes is as easy as making sure your potatoes are boiling in salted water and switching a utensil. In this case, salt is your friend so don’t forget to salt the water. And use a fork, not a knife, to make sure the potatoes are fork tender. To add even more richness, add a dollop of sour cream to the potatoes along with your butter and milk. Amazing!
Mistake #4: A complicated table setting and too many wine glasses
Quick Fix: Keep your table setting simple and casual. Have one dinner plate, and one or two smaller plates for every guest. You don’t need a plate for every course! As far as the wine, choose a medium bodied and crisp white wine to pair with everything such as a New-Zealand Sauvignon Blanc or Washington Riesling.
Mistake #5: I really want to make Thanksgiving feel special but I don’t know what to do!
Quick Fix: Start by greeting your guests with some Prosecco in fluted glasses. Prosecco is a light, crisp, slightly dry Italian wine. It’s bubbly like champagne, but won’t break the bank. While these are just a few suggestions that will help you create a delicious Thanksgiving meal, the most important advice is not to lose the importance of being with friends and family. Coming together to be thankful for the good in your life no matter what opposition we might face, or small problems we take on each day, is what will make your Thanksgiving truly unforgettable.
