Q: I have 4 American people coming over. I am doing turkey, mash, gravy, pumpkin pie and brownies. What veg should I have? What goes with the pumpkin pie (we'd eat custard but I don't suppose you do)? Do you eat butternut squash with brown sugar and cinnamon as dessert or on the main meal plate? What extent do you decorate your home? Should any other food be provided? What non alcoholic drinks should I serve? Thank you so much!!
A: This is a great start at a menu, and I would really like to say that you are on the right track. Whatever you do, the best advice is not to get overstressed. Our typical menu is a turkey with stuffing, garlic smashed potatoes, gravy, peas with pearl onions, and pumpkin pie. My cousin has contributed a fruit compote that is wonderful. You will probably want a dinner roll or baguette to (a) sop up the gravy, or (b) eat the leftovers in sandwiches. One of the best and easiest stuffing recipes comes from the Betty Crocker Cookbook. The link is provided below. When making stuffing, we make an extra batch to provide snacks for the kids -- serving a little bit in bowls. Using margarine or olive oil in the recipe makes it a little healthier. My sister always insists on cranberry sauce. I don't. While I am cooking dinner, my wife is usually busy decorating the home for Christmas. That way we are all busy. It is a good Thanksgiving tradition. As far as drinks, we like to serve a mulled apple cider, which also adds to the aromas and flavors of the holiday. Milk, tea, and coffee are also appropriate. Other food? Wow... I am not sure you will be able to handle much after that! (humor intended) And by the way, as someone else said, thank you so much for your thoughfulness. Thanksgiving is really my favorite holiday because there is little expectation or pressure around it. It is just a day for fellowship and for the family to get together. You are definitely observing the spirit of Thanksgiving.