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Thanksgiving tips from a personal chef Story and photos by ANDREA LETARD
TURKEY DAY ALWAYS SEEMS TO SNEAK UP ON US.
You have nearly a month to plan the perfect dinner, but the next thing you know, the big day is just right around the corner. It all sounds so stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. It only takes a few days to plan a lovely, enjoyable Thanksgiving celebration. These tips and easy recipes will put you right on track to being the host with the most this Thanksgiving Day.
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• Grocery shop over several days. Three to four days before, buy all items that store easily over time. One to two days before, buy items you want to serve at their freshest. • Clean your refrigerator out before you go grocery shopping. It’s great to start the holidays with a clean, organized fridge, plus you’ll need plenty of room for all the ingredients you bring home. • Make ahead as much as possible. It may surprise you what all can be made and stored in plastic containers days before — dressings, sauces, even some veggies can be chopped a day or two before. When storing, label containers by using tape and a marker. Reheat or finish the day of. 28 NOVEMBER 2016 | myclickmag.com
• Make dishes with few ingredients. This will help your grocery trips flow and your days in the kitchen quick and easy.
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• Don’t just have a dinner party. Have a party! Be prepped for guests to come early and spread each course out. It’s also fun to pair wine or cocktails with each course then have coffee, espresso, or cappuccinos with dessert. • Scatter appetizers on different tables and in different rooms. This gets guests mingling and keeps them out of the kitchen while you work. • Set up a drink station away from the kitchen. Consider having one simple signature cocktail, wine, beer, water, and various nonalcoholic beverages. Everyone can serve themselves — it keeps them occupied and you don’t have to worry with asking what every guest wants to drink when they arrive. • Have plenty of entertainment: football on in one room, music playing at dinner, and maybe a holiday movie to end the night. There should be something for everyone.