Turkey Timelines: Organizing a Great Gathering
Maintaining sanity and organization go hand-in-hand for holiday meal preparation. The more you plan in 
advance,
the less stressed you'll feel on Thanksgiving Day. It's time to make
lists (more than one), dig out the best serving dishes, and clean the
fridge.
We
also know it's a good idea to create a special spot in the pantry for
those non-perishable goods you'll be purchasing in the days and weeks
ahead.
That's
where multiple lists come in handy. It is never too early to plan and
build lists for Thanksgiving. You'll probably regroup along the way as
needs change and new ideas develop for great recipes.
Three
lists will be made: perishables, non-perishables, and a timeline. You
can purchase the non-perishables several weeks in advance. Perishables
will be purchased within at least two stages – foods that can be
prepared or will keep for a week or so and those that should be as
fresh as possible (i.e., the day before Thanksgiving).
A timeline will help you track what needs to be done and when.
Three-Four weeks ahead
- Buy canned goods, including pumpkin, evaporated milk, etc.
- Purchase frozen vegetables
- Purchase beverages, including wines
- Make rolls and freeze
- Now is the time to order a fresh turkey
If you're planning to introduce new recipes for Thanksgiving, take time to try them out. Never serve an "experiment" to guests.
Two weeks ahead
One week ahead
- Purchase cream, butter,
and other condiments that will be used in the last-minute cooking
process. Waiting until the day before may render some of the
better-quality items out of stock.
Three days ahead
Turkey note: Always follow packaging instructions for safe thawing. Times will vary based on the bird's weight.
One day ahead
- Purchase last-minute items, such as rolls if you're buying from a bakery
- Chop vegetables and store properly
- Prepare makeahead casseroles
- Thaw frozen rolls and breads
- Rinse and dry salad ingredients
- Perform any prep chores that will keep overnight in the refrigerator
Thanksgiving Day (where it all comes together)
- Cooking, baking, heating, carving, serving, enjoying – see how easy it is?
We
have only discussed food – that's why we're "BigOven." You still have
to plan for house cleaning, tables, linens, seating, silverware, clean
glasses, ice, and the decorations. Let's get going!