10 Proven Buys To Make Thanksgiving Entertaining A Breeze
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Happy Holidays, my Friends! So tell me, are you guys ready for the festivities? Thanksgiving can indeed be a stressful event to host and with it looming nearby, it made me think of all the important things I need to get in order. I thought it would be helpful to come up with a list of ten must-haves to be prepared for your Thanksgiving holiday this season. I hope you guys find this useful this Thanksgiving!
- Kitchenaid Mixer
Having a good mixer is crucial, especially for a holiday like Thanksgiving. If you are planning to make homemade baked goods Kitchenaid mixers are some of the best available. They are known for their versatility, reliability and efficiency. Dave is definitely the baker around here, I do not have a baking bone in my body 😆 Every thanksgiving, Dave loves to bake his famous peach cobbler and this year we will be using our new Kitchenaid mixer.
Photo by Chelsea Kyle | Prop Styling by Alex Brannian | Food Styling by Cyd McDowel
- Meat Thermometer
A Meat Thermometer can make all the difference between a done meal or one that is overcooked. This is vital when cooking meats such as ham or the main feature — the turkey. You definitely want to get this right and avoid any cooking disasters. This tool is one of my favorites and I use it every year to create a perfectly juicy Thanksgiving turkey.
- Serveware, Dinnerware & Utensils
After spending so much time preparing and cooking your lovely feast, why not display it in all its glory with gorgeous serveware. It doesn’t have to cost you too an arm and a leg. In fact, you can find plenty of beautiful items at your local thrift store. Make sure you have enough utensils and serving ware for all of your guests. Having these (especially if you plan on hosting Thanksgiving dinner this year) are important for its successful event.
- Dutch Oven
Dutch Ovens have been around and used for hundreds of years. With a good dutch oven you'll be able to make all a wide array of amazing dishes. Dutch ovens are made with heavy gauge metal and ceramic which serve to help food cook evenly. It's so versatile that it can be used to roast, fry, bread, braise and even boil. These pots are also oven proof so you can move it to the oven to finish cooking or to keep your finished dishes warm.
- Air Fryer
You can’t forget your air fryer this holiday. This one has recently become a favorite in our home. The ability to fry a meal in a healthier way without even using oil is so impressive! Using an air fryer can reduce the amount of calories, fat, and harmful compounds. Did I mention that it works fast and easy to clean?! So if you're short on time and rushing to get everything done before your guests arrive, this a definite must have!
- Turkey Baster
I don't know about you but I just love a moist and tender turkey. Grab your meat thermometer along with a turkey baster to ensure a juicy and not overcooked bird this year. For the first hour to an hour and a half, there will be no juice. After that, you can use the juices from the turkey or a prepared sauce to baste your turkey every 30 minutes or so.
- Measuring Spoons & Cups
I know some people do not like to use these when cooking and opt for the “pinch” of this and that but having these babies in the kitchen can be great especially for baking and following recipes. Many recipes require specific measurements and measuring cups and spoons will ensure you add precise amounts of those various ingredients. I love finding new recipes on Pinterest and trying them out! Without the ability to measure ingredients many of the recipes I’ve tried would’ve definitely failed so don’t forget to pick a set up!
- Roasting Pan
I have to say, using a roasting pan has helped to make the most delicious turkey! In the past I’ve used cheap aluminum pans but since switching to the roasting pan a few years ago, I’ve realized it has been a Godsend. The Turkey sits on a rack just above the bottom of the pan and prevents the bottom of turkey from getting soggy and grey. It helps to retain the moisture and cook the turkey evenly. If you don't have one of these I suggest definitely investing in one!
- Knife Set
Having a good knife set is probably one of the most important tools to have in your kitchen on any given day! Knives are used in just about every dish made. Quality knives can help with reduce slippage when cutting and prevent cutting accidents. There are many dishes that will need cutting on Thanksgiving day so these should be at the top of your list!
- Cutting Boards
There is no such thing as having too many cutting boards and Thanksgiving is the perfect time to whip them out. Cutting boards range in style and size and can be used to carve your turkey on. They are also great to use for serving items such as a beautiful array of cheese and crackers instead of purchasing an additional Cheeseboard or Charcuterie board. These would be beyond useful for this (and really any other) holiday!
What are Your thanksgiving Must-Haves? i’d Love to see — Let us know in the comments below!
Have a great and safe holiday, Friends!