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Denise's Secret to a CALM Thanksgiving Cooking Experience

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Homemaking with Denise
Homemaking with Denise
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veganvegetariandairy-freeegg-freegluten-freenut-freesoy-free

Cranberry sauce is a traditional accompaniment to turkey during Thanksgiving in the United States. It is often homemade to enhance the flavor and freshness compared to store-bought versions. The tartness of cranberries complements the savory flavors of roasted meats, making it a staple during holiday feasts.

Ingredients

  • fresh cranberries
  • sugar
  • water
  • orange zest
  • cinnamon

Instructions

  1. 1Rinse the fresh cranberries under cold water.
  2. 2In a saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, and water.
  3. 3Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
  4. 4Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. 5Add orange zest and cinnamon, mixing well.
  6. 6Remove from heat and let it cool before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

sugar

Healthier: honey

Cheaper: brown sugar

Honey is a natural sweetener, while brown sugar is often less expensive.

fresh cranberries

Healthier: frozen cranberries

Frozen cranberries are often more affordable and available year-round.

Techniques

simmered

Equipment

saucepanmeasuring cupsspoon
🌶️🌶️🌶️Low

Also Known As

Cranberry RelishCranberry Chutney
vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cornmeal
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tablespoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels (optional)

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. 2In a large mixing bowl, combine the cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. 3In another bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, and melted butter until well combined.
  4. 4Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined. If using, fold in the corn kernels.
  5. 5Heat a cast-iron skillet over medium heat and add a little butter to coat the bottom.
  6. 6Pour the cornbread batter into the hot skillet, spreading it evenly.
  7. 7Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. 8Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

Equipment

mixing bowlswhiskcast-iron skilletmeasuring cupsmeasuring spoons
vegetariangluten-freenut-freesoy-free

Collard greens are a staple in Southern cuisine, often associated with African American culinary traditions. They are commonly served as a side dish, especially during holidays and family gatherings, symbolizing prosperity when eaten with black-eyed peas and cornbread. Their robust flavor and nutritional benefits make them a popular choice year-round.

Ingredients

  • collard greens
  • olive oil
  • onion
  • garlic
  • chicken broth
  • red pepper flakes
  • salt
  • black pepper

Instructions

  1. 1Wash collard greens thoroughly and remove tough stems.
  2. 2Stack leaves, roll them tightly, and slice into strips.
  3. 3Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  4. 4Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
  5. 5Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  6. 6Add collard greens to the pot and stir well to coat with oil.
  7. 7Pour in chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
  8. 8Season with red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper.
  9. 9Cover and cook for about 30 minutes until greens are tender.
  10. 10Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  11. 11Serve warm as a side dish.

Ingredient Alternatives

olive oil

Healthier: avocado oil

Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil has a higher smoke point and is rich in healthy fats.

chicken broth

Healthier: vegetable broth

Cheaper: water with seasoning

Vegetable broth is lower in calories and can be homemade.

Techniques

sautéingboiling

Equipment

large potknifecutting boardstirring spoon
🌶️🌶️🌶️Medium

Also Known As

CollardsSouthern Greens

Ingredients

  • 1 whole turkey (12-14 lbs)
  • 1 cup kosher salt
  • 1/2 cup brown sugar
  • 1 gallon water
  • 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
  • 1 tablespoon allspice berries
  • 1 tablespoon dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 lemon, sliced
  • 1 orange, sliced
  • 1 cup ice

Instructions

  1. 1In a large pot, combine 1 gallon of water, kosher salt, brown sugar, black peppercorns, allspice berries, dried thyme, garlic powder, and onion powder. Stir until the salt and sugar are dissolved.
  2. 2Bring the mixture to a boil, then remove from heat and let it cool to room temperature.
  3. 3Once cooled, add the lemon and orange slices to the brine.
  4. 4Place the turkey in a large container or brining bag and pour the brine over it, ensuring the turkey is fully submerged. If necessary, add more water to cover the turkey completely.
  5. 5Seal the container or bag and refrigerate for 12 to 24 hours, depending on the size of the turkey.
  6. 6After brining, remove the turkey from the brine and rinse it under cold water to remove excess salt.
  7. 7Pat the turkey dry with paper towels and let it rest at room temperature for about 30 minutes before cooking.
  8. 8Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).
  9. 9Roast the turkey according to your preferred method, typically about 13-15 minutes per pound, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  10. 10Let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving.

Equipment

large potbrining bag or containerroasting panmeat thermometer

Candied sweet potatoes have roots in Southern American cuisine, often served during Thanksgiving and Christmas meals. This dish reflects the tradition of using seasonal ingredients to create comforting, sweet side dishes that complement savory main courses. Today, variations abound, with some adding nuts or different spices, making it a beloved staple across the United States.

Ingredients

  • sweet potatoes
  • brown sugar
  • butter
  • cinnamon
  • nutmeg
  • vanilla extract
  • mini marshmallows
  • salt

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. 2Peel and slice sweet potatoes into rounds.
  3. 3Boil sweet potato slices in water until tender, about 10-15 minutes.
  4. 4Drain sweet potatoes and transfer to a baking dish.
  5. 5Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
  6. 6Stir in brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt until combined.
  7. 7Pour the mixture over the sweet potatoes and gently toss to coat.
  8. 8Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until caramelized.
  9. 9Remove from oven and top with mini marshmallows if desired.
  10. 10Return to oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until marshmallows are golden.
  11. 11Serve warm as a side dish.

Ingredient Alternatives

brown sugar

Healthier: coconut sugar

Cheaper: white sugar

Coconut sugar offers a lower glycemic index.

butter

Healthier: coconut oil

Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil provides a dairy-free option.

mini marshmallows

Healthier: toasted pecans

Cheaper: regular marshmallows

Pecans add crunch and flavor without added sugar.

cinnamon

Healthier: pumpkin pie spice

Cheaper: allspice

Pumpkin pie spice adds a warm flavor profile.

Techniques

boilingbakingmixing

Equipment

large potbaking dishsaucepanmixing spoon
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowdairy

Also Known As

Sweet Potato CasseroleGlazed Sweet Potatoes

Mac and cheese is a beloved comfort food in the United States, often associated with childhood and family gatherings. Its origins trace back to European pasta dishes, but it gained popularity in America during the 18th century. Today, it is a staple in many households and is often served as a side dish or main course, especially at gatherings and celebrations.

Ingredients

  • elbow macaroni
  • cheddar cheese
  • milk
  • butter
  • flour
  • bread crumbs

Instructions

  1. 1Boil water in a large pot.
  2. 2Add elbow macaroni and cook until al dente.
  3. 3In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  4. 4Stir in flour to create a roux, cooking for a minute.
  5. 5Gradually whisk in milk, stirring until thickened.
  6. 6Remove from heat and add cheddar cheese, stirring until melted.
  7. 7Combine cheese sauce with drained macaroni and mix well.
  8. 8Transfer to a baking dish and top with bread crumbs.
  9. 9Bake in a preheated oven until golden and bubbly.
  10. 10Let cool slightly before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

cheddar cheese

Healthier: reduced-fat cheese

Cheaper: processed cheese

Lower calorie option or more budget-friendly.

elbow macaroni

Healthier: whole grain pasta

Cheaper: any pasta shape

More nutritious or versatile.

Techniques

boilingbaking

Equipment

large potsaucepanwhiskbaking dish
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowdairygluten

Also Known As

Macaroni and CheeseMacaroni Cheese

Mashed potatoes are a staple side dish in American cuisine, often served during family gatherings, holidays, and comfort food meals. They are typically made with simple ingredients and can be customized with various add-ins like garlic or cheese. This dish has roots in European cooking, particularly in the British Isles, where potatoes were first cultivated.

Ingredients

  • potatoes
  • butter
  • milk
  • salt
  • pepper

Instructions

  1. 1Peel and chop the potatoes into even pieces.
  2. 2Place the potatoes in a pot and cover with cold water.
  3. 3Add salt to the water and bring to a boil.
  4. 4Cook the potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  5. 5Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
  6. 6Add butter and milk to the potatoes.
  7. 7Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy.
  8. 8Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  9. 9Serve warm as a side dish.

Ingredient Alternatives

butter

Healthier: olive oil

Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is healthier with unsaturated fats.

milk

Healthier: almond milk

Cheaper: water

Almond milk is lower in calories; water is budget-friendly.

Techniques

boilingmashing

Equipment

potmashercolanderstirring spoon
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowdairy

Also Known As

MashCreamy Potatoes

Ingredients

  • 3-4 lbs turkey breast
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 tsp dried rosemary
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cup carrots, chopped
  • 1 cup celery, chopped

Instructions

  1. 1Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. 2Season the turkey breast with salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary.
  3. 3Sear the turkey breast in the skillet for about 4-5 minutes on each side until browned.
  4. 4Place the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery in the bottom of the slow cooker.
  5. 5Pour the chicken broth over the vegetables in the slow cooker.
  6. 6Place the seared turkey breast on top of the vegetables in the slow cooker.
  7. 7Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the turkey is cooked through and tender.
  8. 8Once cooked, remove the turkey breast and let it rest for 10 minutes before slicing.
  9. 9Serve the turkey with the vegetables and broth from the slow cooker.

Equipment

slow cookerskilletcutting boardknife

Ingredients

  • 4 cups turkey drippings
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder

Instructions

  1. 1In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. 2Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes until it turns golden brown.
  3. 3Gradually add the turkey drippings while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
  4. 4Pour in the chicken broth and continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth.
  5. 5Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens.
  6. 6Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to taste.
  7. 7Remove from heat and serve hot over turkey or mashed potatoes.

Equipment

saucepanwhiskmeasuring cupsmeasuring spoons

Ingredients

  • 1 whole chicken (about 4-5 lbs)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
  • 1 lemon, halved
  • 4 cloves garlic, crushed

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the air fryer to 360°F (182°C).
  2. 2Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
  3. 3Rub the olive oil all over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated.
  4. 4In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, and rosemary.
  5. 5Sprinkle the spice mixture all over the chicken, rubbing it into the skin for maximum flavor.
  6. 6Stuff the cavity of the chicken with the halved lemon and crushed garlic cloves.
  7. 7Place the chicken in the air fryer basket, breast side down.
  8. 8Cook the chicken for 30 minutes at 360°F (182°C).
  9. 9After 30 minutes, carefully flip the chicken over to breast side up and cook for an additional 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  10. 10Once cooked, remove the chicken from the air fryer and let it rest for 10 minutes before carving.

Equipment

air fryermeat thermometermixing bowlcutting boardknife
gluten-free

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
  • 4 slices bacon, chopped
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 1/4 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2In a large bowl, toss the halved Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
  3. 3Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  4. 4Sprinkle the chopped bacon over the Brussels sprouts.
  5. 5Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the Brussels sprouts are tender and the bacon is crispy, stirring halfway through.
  6. 6If using, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the Brussels sprouts during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
  7. 7Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Equipment

baking sheetlarge bowlmeasuring spoonsknifecutting board

Cornbread dressing is a traditional Southern dish often served during Thanksgiving and other festive occasions. It combines crumbled cornbread with vegetables and seasonings, creating a flavorful side that complements roasted meats. The dish reflects the culinary heritage of the American South, where cornbread is a staple. Variations exist, with some recipes incorporating sausage or nuts, showcasing regional preferences and family traditions.

Ingredients

  • cornbread
  • celery
  • onion
  • vegetable broth
  • sage
  • thyme
  • black pepper
  • salt
  • butter

Instructions

  1. 1Prepare cornbread according to recipe or package instructions and let it cool.
  2. 2Crumble the cornbread into a large mixing bowl.
  3. 3Sauté chopped celery and onion in butter until softened.
  4. 4Add sautéed vegetables to the crumbled cornbread.
  5. 5Pour in vegetable broth and mix until well combined.
  6. 6Season with sage, thyme, black pepper, and salt to taste.
  7. 7Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish.
  8. 8Bake in preheated oven until golden brown and heated through.

Ingredient Alternatives

cornbread

Healthier: whole grain cornbread

Cheaper: store-bought cornbread

Whole grain cornbread offers more fiber, while store-bought is often more economical.

butter

Healthier: olive oil

Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is a healthier fat option, while margarine can be less expensive.

Techniques

bakingsautéing

Equipment

mixing bowlbaking dishskilletoven
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowglutendairy

Also Known As

Cornbread StuffingSouthern Dressing

Ingredients

  • 1 box Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix
  • 1/3 cup milk
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/4 cup vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. 2In a mixing bowl, combine the Jiffy Corn Muffin Mix, milk, egg, and vegetable oil.
  3. 3Stir the mixture until just combined; do not overmix.
  4. 4Grease a muffin tin or line it with muffin liners.
  5. 5Pour the batter into the muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
  6. 6Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. 7Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before transferring to a wire rack.

Equipment

mixing bowlmuffin tinwhisktoothpickwire rack

Peach cobbler is a classic American dessert, particularly popular in the Southern United States. It showcases fresh peaches, typically in season during the summer months, and is often served warm with ice cream. The dish reflects the agricultural heritage of the region, where peaches are a staple fruit. Variations exist, with some recipes incorporating different fruits or spices, but the essence remains the same: a comforting, sweet treat that celebrates seasonal produce.

Ingredients

  • peaches
  • sugar
  • flour
  • butter
  • baking powder
  • milk
  • cinnamon

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2Peel and slice the peaches, placing them in a baking dish.
  3. 3Sprinkle sugar over the peaches and mix well.
  4. 4In a bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and cinnamon.
  5. 5Add milk and melted butter to the dry ingredients, mixing until smooth.
  6. 6Pour the batter over the peaches in the baking dish.
  7. 7Bake for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
  8. 8Let cool slightly before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

sugar

Healthier: honey

Cheaper: brown sugar

Honey is a natural sweetener; brown sugar is often less expensive.

butter

Healthier: coconut oil

Cheaper: margarine

Coconut oil is plant-based and lower in saturated fat; margarine is usually cheaper.

Techniques

baking

Equipment

baking dishmixing bowloven
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowglutendairy

Also Known As

Peach CrispPeach Pie

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