Thanksgiving!!

Hey everyone! I know I’ve been a little MIA, so I hope this post leaves you drooling. Take a look at my family’s Thanksgiving! Such an amazing meal!!!

I brined the turkey with broth, tons of herbs, black peppercorn, salt, and celery seed. To me, celery seed is a MUST for turkey brining. Such aroma!

This is my family’s secret stuffing recipe. My Grandfather made the best, but it’s still very good.

Before I put the turkey in the oven I put sage leaves under the skin, then rubbed it with olive oil (I tried using butter one year, but butter has a low smoking point, so you might burn the skin way before the turkey is done), and sprinkled salt and pepper.

Tying the bird was a bit of a challenge because the neck piece was missing, but I made my own way and it kind of worked out for the better!

Beets—so underrated. I decided to make a simple beet salad for the family. They loved it!

Orange zest give the beets a little tang. For the dressing I used dry white wine, white wine vinegar, bay leaf, sugar, and salt. I reduced it down and added some sliced shallot (which are dyed red from the beets).

I wanted so badly to make my cheddar chive biscuits for the family but they didn’t turn out. However we did find out why, the baking powder was expired. I was a little heartbroken. : (

I made my famous creamed mushrooms. I could literally eat these every day of my life. I used cremini, portobello, and shiitake. I added a lot of fresh parsley, chives, and some thyme as well.

My sister Kendall made her favorite dish—sweet potato casserole. I never was much of a sweet potato fan up until the last 2 years, but this casserole is ridiculously good. It’s buttery and sweet and there’s a salty crust on top. Mmm.

My mom’s oven had a handy thermometer that stays in the oven and reads the temperature constantly. I think I’m in love with it.

Buttered soft rolls are a must for me. I’m too obsessed with bread and butter. I could easily eat it every day. Good thing we had these since the biscuits were trash!

My mom is always in charge of the pies. She always makes pecan and pumpkin. I forgot to get a picture of the pumpkin but it was beautiful! And delicious.

My turkey turned out exactly how I wanted. It was so juicy flavorful. The skin was completely crisp and the sage of course was perfect. I paired the meal with a white wine which I loved (a little too much)!

The final plate—really wish I could have a plate right now. So hungry! All in all I can say that I had a perfect Thanksgiving, which made up for last year when I spent it alone. Being able to go home and see my family is what I’m most thankful for. I am happy to be where I am in my life and am so grateful to have those around me.

Happy Belated Thanksgiving Everyone!!

Rachel