Thanksgiving is Thursday: Are You Ready?
In a perfect world, we would all be prepped well ahead of Thanksgiving Day. You would have your parbaked rolls in the freezer and turkey thawing. Your turkey is thawing at this point, right? While we hope to be the family on the cover of a magazine, gathered around on the big day with everything we planned to a ‘T’, that just isn’t realistic. It’s okay if you can’t, or maybe just forgot, to prep ahead. Thankfully (pun intended), there’s still time to make your Thanksgiving a great success!
Last-Minute Menu
Maybe your family didn’t designate someone to host Thanksgiving until the very last minute or maybe you just forgot to shop in advance. Whatever the case may be, there is still time to get the groceries you need for Thanksgiving. However, you will want to make sure that you are grocery shopping smartly. Even though you are shopping last minute, you can still use coupons or try to look for deals. Generally, grocery stores are going to be putting out Thanksgiving themed food items at the front of the store. While this may be convenient, they will likely be marked up in price. Instead, allot time to thoroughly shop through the store to find the best deals. Side dishes that can be created quickly, easily, and affordably include roasted carrots, corn pudding, and mashed potatoes.
For Your Guests
If your guests have been designated to bring a food item or something else to Thanksgiving, now would be the time to send out a gentle reminder. You may also want to get a final head count for the holiday if you happen to be hosting. This can help you stay on top of things come the big day and prevent a dish from being left behind.
Can I Cook a Frozen Turkey?
Your pies are cooling, side dishes are all accounted for, and then the realization hits you. Where is the piece de resistance; the turkey? Low and behold, the turkey is still in your basement chest freezer. But, don’t stress! Contrary to popular belief, you can actually cook a frozen turkey. While the end result might not be exactly like if you were to thaw and brine it, a cooked frozen turkey can still be tasty. Make sure you check the turkey’s temperature before you start dishing it out! You will want to check the temperature where the turkey has the thickest meat, usually in the breast and thigh. The temperature should be at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Cooking times are below
Frozen Turkey Cooking Times
● 8 to 12lb turkey: 4 - 4 ½ hours
● 12 to 14lb turkey: 4 ½ - 5 ¾ hours
● 14 to 18lb turkey: 5 ¾ - 6 ¼ hours
● 18 to 20lb turkey: 6 ¼ - 6 ¾ hours
Take a Moment for Yourself
During all the hustle of the holiday, it can be easy to be swept up in all the chaos. However, it is important to take a step back and be present in the moment. Slow down and ensure you are not overworking yourself. If you need a break from cooking or preparing, try to designate some of the tasks to other family members or friends. This time can be marked by stress, especially if you will be around people you may not get along with. These holiday dinners, as often depicted in television and movies, can spark conflict. Instead of feeding the flames, try to diffuse any familial conflict and keep your cool. Take a minute to think about your own reasons to be grateful and even express gratitude towards certain aspects of your life. If you are having trouble thinking of what to be grateful for, this blog on gratitude is a great place to start.
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