Preparing for a Prime Thanksgiving
- Paul Pohopien
- Nov 11
- 4 min read
Thanksgiving is truly a special time of the year. It brings the warmth of family and friends together with the joy of sharing a scrumptious meal. This year, I'm eager to present a Thanksgiving menu that showcases The Prime Spice and Mild California Olive Oil. With these ingredients, I'll be crafting a mouthwatering turkey, a tasty side of The Good Rice from my Generations of Flavor cookbook, and perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts. Let’s explore the recipes and some handy tips for preparing everything efficiently!
The Star of the Show: The Centerpiece Turkey
Ingredients
1 whole turkey (12-14 pounds)
1 cup Mild California Olive Oil
1 cup unsalted butter, softened
2 cups chicken broth
1 cup white wine
1 cheesecloth
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage)
Instructions
Prep the Turkey: Start by thawing your 12 to 14-pound turkey in the fridge for at least 3-4 days before Thanksgiving. Once it's fully thawed, remove the giblets and pat the turkey dry with paper towels.
Seasoning: Mix the softened butter with The Prime Spice, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This butter mixture should be rubbed all over the turkey, including underneath the skin. This adds incredible flavor to the meat.
Cheesecloth Method: Soak the cheesecloth in a mixture of chicken broth and white wine. Drape the cheesecloth over the turkey, ensuring it fully covers the bird. This method is vital as it retains moisture, ensuring a juicy turkey.
Roasting: Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Place the turkey in a roasting pan and pour the remaining broth and wine into the pan. Roast the turkey for about 13-15 minutes per pound, which means a 14-pound turkey will take around 3-3.5 hours. Baste it every 30 minutes with the pan juices for added moisture.
Finishing Touches: Remove the cheesecloth during the last 30 minutes of roasting for a crispy skin. The turkey is ready when the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C) in the thickest part of the thigh, ensuring that it is perfectly cooked.
Tips for Preparation
Make Ahead: You can prepare the butter mixture and rub it on the turkey a day in advance. Cover and store it in the fridge, making the roasting process much easier on Thanksgiving Day.
Broth and Wine: Prepare your broth and wine mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. This allows for quick access when it’s time to soak the cheesecloth right before roasting.
A Flavorful Side: The Good Rice
Ingredients
2 tablespoons Mild California Olive Oil
3/4 cup cut fideo pasta
3 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon The Prime Spice
Instructions
Sauté the Fideo: Heat the olive oil in a medium pot over low heat and add the fideo pasta. Stir the fideo pasta constantly to brown being careful not to burn, about 4 minutes.
Cook the Rice: Stir in the rice, coating it with the oil. Add the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Add The Prime Spice, stir to combine. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender.
Garnish: Fluff the rice with a fork and serve with a dollop of greek yogurt and a sprinkle of The Prime Spice.
Tips for Thanksgiving Preparation
Prep the Day Before: This rice is perfect to make the day before and heated through in the microwave before serving.
Make Extra: This rice dish is great for leftovers. Consider making a bit more, as it can complement other meals after the holiday.
A Crunchy Side: Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Ingredients
1 pound Brussels sprouts, halved
3 tablespoons Mild California Olive Oil
2 tablespoons The Prime Spice
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Preheat the Oven: Begin by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the Brussels Sprouts: In a large bowl, combine the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, The Prime Spice, salt, and pepper. Toss well until they are evenly coated.
Roasting: Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast them for 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and crispy around the edges.
Tips for Preparation
Trim Ahead: You can trim and halve the Brussels sprouts a day in advance. Store them in a sealed container in the fridge to keep them fresh.
Roast in Batches: If preparing for a larger crowd, consider roasting them in batches to ensure they cook evenly and retain their crispiness.
Time to Celebrate
With these delicious recipes featuring The Prime Spice and Mild California Olive Oil, your Thanksgiving meal is destined to impress.
Preparation is key to a smooth Thanksgiving. By planning ahead and prepping ingredients in advance, you can fully enjoy the holiday with your loved ones, free from stress. Wishing you a joyful Thanksgiving filled with warmth, connection, and amazing food!
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