TIPS ON HOW TO HOST A STRESS FREE THANKSGIVING

Hosting a Thanksgiving event can be stressful, so we have compiled a few tips to help you keep your cool and keep things simple


1. Don't try to overdo it -- keep it simple and make yourself a plan of action

2. Prepare a menu

3. If people offer to bring something, let them -- this will only make it easier for you. Good ideas for things to bring are:
- wine
- beer
- side dish
- dessert
- finger food for starters

4. Decide on what equipment you will need for your recipes. Borrow additional pots & pans from friends & family if necessary

5. If you have purchased a frozen turkey, make sure you have defrosted it properly. Rule of Thumb: One day in the fridge for every 5 pounds of Turkey

6. Remove the Giblet packet from the Turkey before you cook the bird

7. The Day Before Thanksgiving Activities:
- Make stock from the giblets and store in the fridge
- Wash all salad stuff and keep crisp in the fridge
- Bake any desserts

8. Thanksgiving Day Activities:
- Start cooking your Turkey - we recommend smoking your turkey - click here for recipe
- Prepare your salads (don't dress until the very last minute)
- Prepare your side dishes
- Prepare the dressing
- Have a glass of wine and relax

9. 1 Hour Before Thanksgiving Dinner or Lunch
- Prepare the dressing for your salad dishes
- Cook potatoes if you are serving them
- Make the gravy
- Mash potatoes if that's the way you're having them
- Reheat any side dishes
- Place any desserts into low temperature ovens

10. Carve Turkey!! and Enjoy Yourself

BACK TO ASK THE GRILL MASTER FOR MORE ARTICLES