Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers

Holiday Planner for a Traditional Gathering

Are you planning the ultimate Norman Rockwell-style feast this year? Then here are some solutions to enjoying a convenient, hassle-free holiday without sacrificing tradition. These tips can help even the most detailed-oriented chefs get a jump-start on holiday meal planning.

Getting Started - Nov. 1 to 22:

Make a holiday dinner guest list

Raid the magazine racks for issues with special holiday recipes. Don't be afraid to experiment with new recipes.

Determine which dishes can be made ahead of time, either far ahead (frozen) or a day or two before the big meal.

Buy a Fresh Whole Turkey (ordering fresh is optional, but recommended if a specific size is desired) or Frozen Whole Turkey. Allow 1 to 1 1/2 lbs. for each person.

Prepare, and then freeze various breads, biscuits, and pie dough.

List and create other "special touches" for the table such as place cards and centerpieces.

Week of Nov. 23:

Prepare grocery list. Divide into two parts:

Items that can be purchased immediately and items needed the day before Thanksgiving.

Prepare and freeze appropriate side dishes and desserts.

Nov. 22 to 25:

Start thawing frozen turkey by placing it on a tray in the refrigerator. Allow one day of thawing for every four pounds of turkey.

Or, if a fresh turkey was ordered, pick it up from the store 1 to 3 days before Thanksgiving and put in the refrigerator.

Wednesday, Nov. 26:

Prepare and refrigerate moist ingredients for the stuffing. Store dry ingredients in a separate container.

Set the table.

Thaw pie dough and bake pie.

Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Nov. 27:

Thaw breads, biscuits, prepared side dishes, and desserts.

Combine the stuffing ingredients and stuff the turkey or place in an oven-safe dish or foil and bake.

Place turkey breast side up on a flat rack in an open roasting pan. Insert an oven-safe meat thermometer deep into the thickest part of the thigh. Roast at 325 degrees F until thermometer reaches 180 to 185 degrees F. If cooking stuffing separately, cook along side turkey during the last hour of roasting or until it reaches 160 to 165 degrees F in the stuffing's center.

Complete side dishes, desserts, and set out appetizers. Enjoy!

Courtesy of Article Resource Association

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