1. Roast Turkey:
Ingredients:
- 1 whole turkey (12-15 pounds)
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 onion, quartered
- 1 lemon, halved
- 4-6 sprigs fresh rosemary and thyme
- 4 cups chicken or turkey broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Rinse and pat dry the turkey. Season the inside with salt and pepper.
3. Place the onion, lemon, and herbs inside the turkey cavity.
4. Rub the softened butter all over the turkey. Season the outside with salt and pepper.
5. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and add the broth.
6. Roast the turkey, basting every 30 minutes, until a meat thermometer inserted into the thigh reads 165°F (75°C). This will take about 3-4 hours for a 12-15 pound turkey.
7. Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving.
2. Classic Stuffing:
Ingredients:
- 1 loaf of day-old bread, cubed
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tsp dried sage
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2-3 cups chicken or turkey broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter. Add onions, celery, and garlic, and cook until soft and translucent.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Gradually add broth to the mixture until it reaches the desired level of moisture.
5. Transfer the stuffing to a greased baking dish, cover with foil, and bake for 30 minutes. Then, uncover and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until golden brown.
3. Mashed Potatoes:
Ingredients:
- 4-5 large russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the potatoes in a large pot of cold, salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender (about 15-20 minutes).
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
3. Mash the potatoes while still hot, adding butter and milk gradually. Continue mashing until smooth and creamy.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cranberry Sauce:
Ingredients:
- 12 ounces fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- Zest and juice of 1 orange
- 1 cinnamon stick (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine sugar and water. Bring to a boil.
2. Add cranberries, orange zest, and juice. Stir well.
3. Reduce heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
4. Remove from heat and let it cool before serving. It will thicken as it cools.
These classic Thanksgiving recipes will help you create a mouthwatering feast that your loved ones will remember for years to come. Enjoy your Thanksgiving celebration!
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