Jennifer joins fellow moms to talk turkey, traditions and good tidings for families in need this holiday season.
When it comes to choosing the right size bird, the general rule of thumb is 1 to 1.5 lbs per person. If your house is anything like mine, however, you might want to choose a turkey that's a bit larger than necessary to ensure there are plenty of leftovers for sandwiches and doggy bags. If you opt for a fresh turkey, be sure to refrigerate it immediately. Frozen turkeys should be placed in the freezer until you are ready to begin the thawing process.
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If you are a planner like me, you probably bought your turkey in advance, which means it is sitting in the freezer. As I learned the hard way, frozen turkeys take extra planning and patience, as the thawing process can be lengthy. The safest way to thaw a turkey is in the refrigerator, which can take up to three days for an average–sized bird. For a quicker solution, try defrosting using a cold water bath.
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I love stuffing, but I've learned (also from experience!) that a stuffed bird takes longer to roast. So now I compromise. I bake the stuffing in a casserole dish, and I add flavor to my turkey by tucking herbs including sage, rosemary and thyme underneath the skin.
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Making sure your turkey is moist and delicious is all about sealing in the moisture. So here's a hint: Once your turkey is in the oven, keep the door closed! I know it can be tempting to constantly check in on your creation but keep in mind that fluctuations in oven temperature may cause the turkey to dry out more quickly. For a juicy bird, no peeking.
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The best part of holiday meals at my house? The leftovers, of course! Storing leftovers properly is important to maintain flavor and freshness. Be sure all leftover goodies are stored in shallow containers in the refrigerator or freezer no more than two hours after cooking. Don't send your guests home empty-handed. I use small reusable containers so my friends and family can take home just the right amount from my holiday spread.
NEXT TURKEY TIPFeed your family. Or prepare a feast. With two large ovens, there's no limit to how you can cook.
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