Thanksgiving is often thought of as the official start to the Christmas rush, but for many it is a time when old recipes are revisited and the kitchen becomes a trusted friend. It’s not uncommon to see individuals who might otherwise eat out finding time and patience to create a masterpiece.

Tradition

Oddly Native Americans originally thought the turkey to be a lesser bird. Because it was easy to catch they did not routinely eat turkey. However somewhere along the line turkey came to symbolize this holiday. In fact, if Benjamin Franklin had his way it would be the turkey, not the eagle that would represent America. Franklin is quoted as saying, “For my own part I wish the Bald Eagle had not been chosen the Representative of our Country. He is a Bird of bad moral Character… The Turkey is in Comparison a much more respectable Bird, and withal a true original Native of America . . . He is besides, though a little vain & silly, a Bird of Courage.”

The Bare Necessities

If you will be hosting Thanksgiving at your house this holiday there may be tools you need to get the job done. The following list includes common kitchen items you will use to cook your meal.

Roasting Pan – This can be the more traditional covered roasting pan or the more versatile rack and pan sets. Either will cook your turkey, but the addition of a rack in your roasting pan can allow greater flexibility in what and how you roast.

Meat thermometer – Many will rely on the pop up indicator most turkeys come with, but they are not always accurate. A meat thermometer can allow you to be assured of the safety of the meal while allowing you to pull the bird from the oven without over roasting. The temperature of the meat should reach at least 170 degrees to be considered safe for consumption. Your thermometer should never touch the bone.

Sauce Pan – Most people who make turkey will also go the next step and make mash potatoes and gravy. The potatoes may be roasted with the turkey or boiled on the stove. A larger pan should be used when boiling potatoes, but a 3-quart saucepan should be used to manage the making of gravy according to your family recipe.

Platter and carving knife – This would be essential items in the display of the fully cooked bird along with the primary tool needed to carve the turkey. A separate platter or plate can be used to hold the carved turkey or each plate can be filled as the turkey is sliced.

Crock pot – More and more Americans are dispensing with the tradition of carving the turkey at the table and are opting to carve the turkey earlier and place the result in a crock pot of chicken stock. Many swear this provides enhanced flavor and a bird that is moister.

Other Items

You might also do well to have a cookie sheet to warn dinner rolls. You will need a turkey baster and gravy boat. A pie tin might also be required to bake a family pie. If you will have children visiting you should also consider mixing bowls and seasonal cookie cutters to allow for some family memories and great taste.

Nonessential, But Fun Thanksgiving Accessories

Apple Coring Machine – As much fun to use as it is to eat the resulting apple

Brining Bag – for added flavor to your turkey (used prior to cooking)

Cooking Twine – To sew up your bird

Silicon Poultry Lacer – Use instead of cooking twine

Cupcake Stencils, wrappers and pan – this can also be useful if you have young visitors

Fat Separator – This allows you to use the best juices for making gravy without all the fat

Flavor Injector – Often used in deep fried turkey recipes this can add flavor deep within the turkey

Turkey Lifters – an easier way to remove the bird from the roaster

Again, none of the items above are absolutely essential, but if you were to pick up a few new items each year it is likely the time in the kitchen at Thanksgiving would become more enjoyable and less chaotic.