Basic Cooking Tips for the Holidays

Posted: Oct 31, 2011 |Comments: 0 |

As the air cools and the leaves begin to fall, our thoughts turn to home and holidays; big dinners with all of the family or perhaps just an intimate tete-a-tete with a loved one. It can be a wonderful time of year but also a very stressful one. How long do I cook the turkey? Why is my pie mushy? How in the world am I supposed to cook all of this in one day? Rest assured, with a little preparation, the holiday season can be a fun and relaxing time.

Your first thing to consider is your skill level. Are you a gourmet chef or does boiling water pose a challenge for you? While it's tempting to draw up a complicated, impressive sounding menu, trying to pull it off can end in horribly burned disaster. Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner is not the time to try and pull culinary rabbits out of your hat. Instead, stick to what you know. If something seems a little beyond your abilities, see if it's available in a ready made or pre-baked version. With a little garnish and some pretty plates, no one has to know it wasn't made from scratch.

Next, consider your tools. Is your kitchen a culinary arsenal of spatulas, pots, pans, deep fryers, gadgets and all sorts of objects that make people ask "What in the world does this do?" Perhaps you're a bit more spartan in your equipment. It's not necessary to have every tool imaginable, but there are a few key items that you will need. A good knife set is a worthwhile investment as are a set of measuring cups, both liquid and solid, some good solid spatulas and a well designed apron to keep your holiday clothes looking good! Colorful mixing bowls are both useful and fun and a good set of pot holders will keep you protected and burn free through the season.

A third consideration is time. How much time do you have to dedicate to the kitchen? If you work full time and have a family, perhaps a seven course meal isn't the best thing for you. Include cooking time in your daily schedule and remember, many dishes can be made ahead of time and refrigerated or frozen. 

A little organization and consideration and you can look forward to a relaxing and tasty holiday season! Bon appetit!

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