There are, by my count, at least seven levels of fried chicken. The worst of them is good; the best, which I waited forty-four years to find, led to what can only be called an out-of-body experience. Let’s start at …
What Are Some Grocery Items That I Need to Buy for Thanksgiving?
As with any holiday meal, it's important to compose a list of the dishes you'll be making before taking the trip to the grocery store. It's always helpful to have recipes accessible to refer to and create a shopping list from the recipes of ingredients and measurements. For a traditional meal, you'll typically have turkey and gravy, cranberries, a vegetable or two, potatoes, bread and a dessert. Organize your list by produce, starches, baked goods, dairy, proteins and specialty items. Add this to my Recipe Box.
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Produce
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Look for the freshest produce and substitute frozen items for what is unavailable in the regular produce section. Some families prefer canned vegetables for specific dishes also. You'll need to purchase potatoes (regular and/or sweet potatoes), French-cut string beans, cranberries (cranberry sauce in a can may be substituted for fresh cranberries) and a second vegetable option, such as squash, broccoli or asparagus.
Baked Goods and Starches
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Traditional pumpkin pie is a staple at Thanksgiving dinner. You can purchase one from the freezer section, grocery store bakery or make your own. To make your own, buy canned pumpkin, evaporated milk, a ready-made pie crust, sugar, vanilla, pumpkin spice and cinnamon. An apple pie is also a good alternative and can be purchased or made. The only additional ingredient you'll need is flour. Add apples to your produce column if you choose to make your own.
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Dairy and Proteins
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This is the column you use to list your turkey and any other protein you want to serve. You may want to make sure you have enough milk on hand for cooking and drinking as well as eggs for any bakery items you decide to make from scratch. If you're serving a bread you can purchase from the freezer section, the baked goods boxed item section or the grocery store bakery. Buy butter to serve on the table. Many people use oils or butter to baste their turkey so purchase what you'll need.
Specialty items
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Always have a space on your grocery list for specialty items. Will you be serving wine or soft drinks, sparkling water, coffee or tea? This is a great place to list those items. If your making dishes from scratch, see if you need any kitchen tools or cookware. Are you purchasing any table setting items, such as napkins or additional serving utensils? Condiments such as ketchup, mustard, sour cream, salt and pepper need to go in this column also.
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References
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