When it comes to a successful, no stress Thanksgiving meal — we have found "it is all in the numbers".
To make the planning of the meal easy, here are a few numbers that will come in handy:
How big a bird to buy?
1.5 lbs/per person turkey (uncooked). You will have leftovers with this amount.
How long to cook?
Until the internal temperature is 165 degrees for a perfect bird. Range is 165-180. Measure this in the thigh with an instant read thermometer
Let rest for 25-30 minutes before carving. Bird will stay hot for 1 hour so don't panic – let the juices set!
What temperature to set oven to for all the side dishes?
350-375
Amount of coffee to use per cup?
2 tablespoons per cup when making a pot with a auto-drip machine.
How much stuffing to make?
1.25 cup per person (this should also result in leftovers)
We found an actual turkey meal calculator online for you to use.
And try to remember the important part of the holiday is being with people you care about and having gratitude in your life. Try not to get stressed out over the perfect meal…and ask for help! Any guest that offers to bring a dish, say yes!! If you only have to make the main dishes, it will be much easier. Ask others to bring appetizer and desserts, and even the sides!
Food411's Holiday Gift Pick's – Part One
Effie's Homemade Cookies
Unique & delicious. Effie's oatcakes, corncakes & nutcakes are "cookie" that can also function as a cracker. We really love these! Crispy, yet flaky. Buttery, but not too sweet. Wholesome, made from a 4th generation family recipe. Old fashion, honest and simple. — 6 packs $36
Mulay's Sausage
A perfect gift for any sausage lover or to add to your favorite holiday stuffing. These are the real deal. You will not find sausage like these in the supermarket! Made according to their family's centuries old recipes from Sicily. 100% Natural, humanely treated Pork, 80% lean, made from the pork shoulder. No grains or fillers ever. Using these made a signifant difference in the flavor of the tomato sauce we made in our tasting kitchen and they were absolutely delicious. $7.50+
olio2go
The Venus Pasta gift set makes a delicious gift "meal in a golden box". All direct from Italy, Venus Extra Virgin Olive oil from Sorrento, Fusilli Casarecce Pasta from Castel San Giorgio, and Genovese Pesto from Lazio. $46
Ecreamery
Create a personalized ice cream flavor! Select the cream base (sorbetto, gelato, or ice cream), flavor (oh so many flavors to choose!) & the mix-ins (from basil to raspberries to walnut brownies). Personalize your creation by selecting packaging & naming your pints! Thoughtful and really yummy! 4 pints $50
Fat Toad Farm
A family run goat dairy in Vermont. They make a very unique goat's milk Caramel. This makes a very special present for a caramel lover. We sampled it over ice cream, on toast and yes right out of the jar :) ! 4 jars in an adorable wooden crate $27
John Kelly Chocolate
Yes, John Kelly chocolates is a repeat winner of our Gift Picks. It is just that good. Dark chocolate truffle bites with French Grey Sea Salt.....enough said. $9.25+
This gives you a head start on your holiday gift giving. We will be back with more of our gift picks in early December. Until then, enjoy your family and friends on Thanksgiving.
