That new thing you tried at Thanksgiving--what worked, and what didn't?

[Anonymous]

What did you cook at Thanksgiving this year that you hadn't done before, and how did it come out? What would you do the same or differently next time?

If you were a first-timer this year, that would include the whole meal.

No tried and true stories, please. Just the new stuff.

[Anonymous]

I made Ruth Chris' sweet potato recipe and it was a big hit.

[Anonymous]

I made roasted green beans from November's Bon Appetit: http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/Slow-Roasted-Green-Beans-with-Sage-51123150. They were so good and couldn't be easier! The green beans I've been looking for all these years to become my go-to side dish! Now to find carrots as tasty...

[Anonymous]

I made reservations for the first time and it worked beautifully!

The last 12 months have been difficult, my spouse has been having some major health issues, we have toddler twins and I was just not up to making Thanksgiving dinner or hosting for even just a few extra people.

[Anonymous]

I went to a Thanksgiving buffet at a restaurant. While the food was good, it was expensive. And you miss out on leftovers!

[Anonymous]

I made a new sweet potato recipe with a oatmeal cookie crust...yum!

[Anonymous]

We set up the kids tables downstairs and feed them early/ordered pizza. While all the adults love the traditional thanksgiving meal we had some picky kids and it was just easier to give in and let them have their own seperate party in the basement. Worked really well!

[Anonymous]

Nesco Turkey Roaster - hated it.

[Anonymous]

What a great idea on feeding the kids early and feeding them what they want. Let them have their fun and let the adults have theirs.
Pizza for the kids reminds me of the poster who fed steak to the adults. Give them what they want.

[Anonymous]

Dry brine instead of wet brine. It was fantastic. Easier. Less messy. The juiciest turkey we've ever made.

[Anonymous]

First time hosting:

We ordered a smoked turkey from Rockland's BBQ, and that was delicious.

I made a reasonable approximation of my mom's stuffing.

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:I made a new sweet potato recipe with a oatmeal cookie crust...yum!

Share the recipe?

[Anonymous]

Made Ginger Glazed Ham instead of the usual Ham in Cherry Coke. Turned out very well.

Mom brined her turkey and I actually liked it, for once.

[Anonymous]

Wrapped the turkey in bacon- best ever!

[Anonymous]

Anonymous wrote:Dry brine instead of wet brine. It was fantastic. Easier. Less messy. The juiciest turkey we've ever made.

Can you share the recipe? Did the drippings come out too salty for the gravy or were they ok?