Prepare a turkey dinner by Jeanette Drover
For some reason, it seems that there is always a holiday right in the corner and the holidays, come families and family reunions. It is therefore inevitable that it will be your turn to make this family celebration.
Whether you're a seasoned pro or this is your first time hosting the gathering, preparing a turkey dinner for family and friends can be very stressful for everyone.
Preparing your kitchen and yourself for the big day will be the key to your success.
Following a timeline of up to 10 days before the big day, you'll be able to enjoy not only preparing the meal, but also your business.
A week to 10 days before
aec Prepare a list of everything you'll need, including napkins and decorations
aec Clean your oven thoroughly and check your equipment problems. You have plenty of time to take care of those unexpected problems, you may find
aec Clean and reorganize your fridge, making sure there is plenty of room for Turkey and all the trimmings
aec prepare yourself mentally for the coming days
Three to four days before
aec Buy your turkey, keeping in mind to allow a half pound per person. Allow more if you want lots of leftovers
aec If your turkey is frozen, put it in the refrigerator for defrosting (it can take up to three days to properly defrost a turkey in the refrigerator)
aec Log into your list and buy or get what you need for the big day
aec cooking dinner rolls and appetizers and put them in the freezer until the night before dinner
aec Review your supplies to ensure that all you need is in your kitchen
The day before dinner
aec If your turkey is frozen and you are not entitled to three days for defrosting, set the turkey in a bowl or pot in the sink. Fill the pot with cold water and let cold water slowly. Defrosting a turkey this way can take several hours
aec Iron the tablecloth and linens necessary
aec Include children in the preparation by having them decorate and prepare games for your other young guests
aec Prepare the cranberry sauce or relish and put it in the fridge
aec Save time on the big day by peeling and chopping vegetables. They can be stored in the refrigerator and
aec Prepare and cook desserts and appetizers
aec Remove all items and thaw frozen you may need
The morning of the big day
aec Prepare the turkey for cooking
aec Cook the bird on 350? F for 20 minutes to the cooking time per pound of turkey
aec Prepare your side dishes and have them ready to cook or heat when the time came
aec Set your table and wait for your guests arrive
aec Sit back, relax and enjoy the meal with your family and friends
Preparation and cooking a big turkey dinner or any other large meal does not have to be stressful. Preparing your kitchen and yourself for the task will make your day a breeze, even if this is your first time.
Posted on February 25, 2010.
