Robert’s Recipe for a Great Thanksgiving Feast

Thanksgiving is quickly approaching, and Exquisite Catering’s own Robert Egert is ready to create some amazing holiday feasts! Here’s a peak into how Robert prepares the perfect turkey-day meal, while also providing some tips for those who may tend to stress holiday prep.

1. Thaw your turkey out in the fridge for a few days. On Thanksgiving morning, take it out of the fridge, rinse it off in the sink, and pull out the neck and giblets. People tend to quickly stick their hand inside the turkey and give up if they don’t immediately feel the giblets. It’s important to avoid doing this; giblets will always be inside the turkey, so make sure to keep looking until you find them.
2. Traditional prep is a great way for turkey seasoning. We typically rub the entire bird down in olive oil, which helps season the turkey as well as giving it a crispy skin once it’s cooked. Season with kosher salt, black pepper, paprika, and granulated garlic (avoid garlic salt, as it is way too salty). If you want to give your turkey seasoning a tweak, go ahead! Cajun spices can be a great alternative.
3. Add onions, celery, and carrots in the bottom of the pan with an inch of water. This will add some flavor while also keeping the turkey moist. You can later lay the cooked turkey in the pan drippings and vegetables to enhance the flavor and can also use this to make a gravy as well.
4. Cover your turkey in aluminum foil or use a covered roasting pan. Typically, you will cook your turkey at 350 degrees for a half hour to seal it in for a bit. Then, continue to cook it anywhere from 200 to 300 degrees at half hour to hour long increments. This may vary depending on the size of the turkey.
5. Using a thermometer is the best- and safest- way to tell if your turkey is fully cooked. The breasts will typically be done first, so check those, and then stick the thermometer into the biggest part of the leg and thigh to check the rest.

When it comes to side dishes, Robert says…the more, the merrier! People often end up eating more of the side dishes than the turkey itself, so he believes that a lot of the focus should be put on them. From whipped mashed potatoes and baked sweet potatoes with fluffy marshmallow topping, to green bean casseroles and warm cornbread stuffing, there are so many different sides that are carefully prepared by Robert, so that there is surely something for everyone. Your family is sure to love these delightful dishes.

“Thanksgiving should be a time for relaxation, not stress,” says Robert. “A lot of people overthink Thanksgiving prep, but there’s really no reason to. Don’t overstress- it’ll take away from the fun and festivities.” That’s where Exquisite Catering comes in. Allow Robert and the rest of the team to create a decadent, memorable Thanksgiving feast for your family, so that you can enjoy the day with your family, instead of having to spend the holiday in the kitchen.

If you’re interested in leaving the cooking to Exquisite Catering this year, give us a call at 305-622-FOOD (3663) and ask about our Traditional Thanksgiving Feast or our Latin Holiday Feast. We’ll handle every delicious detail of your holiday meal and deliver right to your door!