Traditional Thanksgiving

Cooking Buzz is produced in partnership with the Junior League of Houston, a women’s charitable and education organization founded in 1925.

For as long as I can remember, Thanksgiving has been my favorite holiday. My birthday typically falls on or during the week of the holiday, so I consider myself a “turkey baby,” and cooking has long been a part of my birthday tradition.

Holidays are a time for beloved dishes, but also a time to try new takes on flavor profiles, impressing guests at your dinner table or potluck meal. The centerpiece of our Thanksgiving meal is the turkey, and for us preparing the turkey begins while watching the Thanksgiving Day Parade on TV.

The Thanksgiving Turkey from Stop and Smell the Rosemary has a traditional preparation, but I love the punch of the Jalapeño and Cranberry Jelly paired with the meat. Leftover turkey slices and jelly are perfect to have on hand for company or visitors during the holiday season.

As a newlywed, it’s been fun to discover the food traditions of another family. I’ve spent time in the kitchen with my husband’s sisters learning some of their grandmother’s favorite recipes. I now know the Adler Thanksgiving includes plenty of cranberry sauce served with delicious turkey and sides.

Holiday meals are balanced in flavor and require a plan for balancing coveted time in the oven as well.  Cooking and chilling the Cranberry Cheesecake from Peace Meals the day before your celebration is a way to get ahead and introduce another seasonal flavor in your dessert lineup. 

Entertaining is meant to be enjoyed, and if cooking is not a part of your tradition, The Junior League’s Pantry is an option. The Pantry sells a complete Thanksgiving dinner or à la carte side dishes, rolls and desserts. My favorite side to pick up is the Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Brown Sugar and Pecans.

To buy a Junior League of Houston cookbook, or reserve your Thanksgiving meal with The Pantry, see jlh.org or call 713-871-6608.