Description
A collection of comforting and forgiving Thanksgiving recipes that bring families together with hearty flavors and simple preparations.
Ingredients
- Butter, unsalted
- Olive oil
- Kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- All-purpose flour
- Chicken or turkey stock
- Heavy cream
- Whole milk
- Brown sugar
- Maple syrup
- Fresh herbs: rosemary, thyme, sage
- Garlic cloves
- Yellow onions
- Celery
- Carrots
- Russet and sweet potatoes
- Brussels sprouts
- Green beans
- Corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
- Cranberries, fresh
- Dijon mustard
- Apple cider vinegar
- Pecans or walnuts
- Breadcrumbs or panko
- Cranberry sauce or preserves
- Whole grain or white bread for stuffing
- Eggs
- Pumpkin puree
- Spices: cinnamon, nutmeg, cloves, allspice
- Lemon and orange zest
- Worcestershire sauce
- Soy sauce for savory depth
- Bacon (optional)
- Cream cheese or goat cheese (optional soft cheeses)
- Cornstarch for thickening
Instructions
- Make a plan. Sketch a simple timeline for oven, stove, and resting time. Write down when each dish goes in and how long it needs to sit.
- Prep aromatics first. Chop onions, mince garlic, and peel root vegetables. Store prepped veg in airtight containers in the fridge.
- Roast the turkey or main dish early. Season it well with salt, pepper, and herbs. Roast at a steady heat and let it rest for at least 30 minutes before carving.
- Build layers of flavor for gravies and sauces by starting with browned bits in the pan, deglazing with stock, and whisking in a roux or cream.
- Cook vegetable sides just until tender, tossing with a small amount of fat and acid.
- Assemble casseroles and toppings, placing them in the oven while another dish is finishing.
- Make sauces and dressings last to keep them bright.
- Keep dishes warm without drying by using a low oven or warming drawer.
- Let the family serve themselves family style or plate thoughtfully.
- Before serving, adjust seasoning and stir to reblend flavors.
Notes
Prep ahead where possible by chopping herbs, toasting nuts, and making breadcrumbs in advance. Use a thermometer for accurate cooking.
- Prep Time: 60 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Thanksgiving
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 700
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 90g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 100mg