We all know that this year has been different than anything that we have ever seen. Being unable to navigate freely, wearing PPE, not seeing family and friends etc. As we continue to live our lives during COVID-19, it takes on new dimensions when it comes to the holiday season where we tend to increase our activities, visit those that we love and/or haven’t seen. But safety is at the root of all of our decisions. The National Turkey Federation has created Thanksgiving 101 which serves as a guide to prepare the holiday turkey especially during these times as well as a number of resources that you may find helpful for your Zoomsgivings, smaller dinners or being a first timer.
Americans will find Thanksgiving 101 especially helpful this year, when the turkey industry is encouraging everyone to follow CDC guidelines for a festive, safe gathering. It will continue to serve as a valuable resource in the future, when more traditional celebrations resume. From a meal-preparation standpoint, Thanksgiving 101 can help whether you are craving traditional flavors or looking to try something new.
Thanksgiving 101 is equipped with simple cooking and food safety tips for turkey first-timers and seasoned holiday pros – remember to have a meat thermometer handy. Going with the traditional whole bird? Thanksgiving 101 will guide you through the basics and provide how-tos for popular cooking methods, such as spatchcocking, grilling or frying (all options for cooking safely outdoors). It also includes a little guidance for those adapting their meal or planning a virtual "Zoomsgiving" this year. There's so much more, and it's just a click away.
Small Scale, Big Flavor
Cooking for a smaller crowd? Roasting turkey cuts, such as a bone-in breast or drumsticks, delivers on big Thanksgiving flavors. The secret is using a simple compound butter to keep the turkey moist and get that crispy skin.
Thanksgiving Turkey with a Twist
Looking for a twist on the traditional? Try a turkey breast roulade filled with apple, fennel and sausage for an elegant but easy entrée. Turkey thighs braised in Burgundy wine complement rich holiday flavors and come with a built-in wine pairing. Think outside the oven! Take the cooking outside with our Honey Glazed Smoked Turkey Breast. Or let the Instant Pot do the work with a simple turkey breast with a sweet and savory whole grain Dijon mustard crust.
Looking Forward to Leftovers
Leftovers are reason enough to cook a little extra turkey. While an epic turkey sandwich is a classic, you can truly transform those Thanksgiving leftovers into new dishes. Thanksgiving 101 includes recipes for BBQ Turkey Pizza, Thanksgiving Egg Rolls, Thai Turkey Pasta, Turkey Eggs Benedict and more. Leftovers are also great to share with neighbors or safely freeze for later.
However you're spending the holidays, remember to plan ahead and make sure the safety of friends and family is the top priority. America's turkey producers are always proud to be part of the Thanksgiving meal. We wish you a Happy Thanksgiving.
