Your Holiday Checklist. Are you ready?

Financially, times are tough and more people will choose to cook at home rather than go out. With the holidays coming up, we need to make sure we have the proper tools for feasting with friends and family.

What does one really need in the tools and gadgets area to be properly prepared for the coming holiday feasts?

Let’s assume we are talking about larger events such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Hanukkah.

The list would include the following:

Roasting Pan – These can be as simple as the enamel coated stainless steel, light and thin. The most durable and sturdy are AllClad and Mauviel copper. These latter pans can shorten the cooking times of food. The best way to prevent problems like this is to use a thermometer. Using a thermometer also prevents dry over cooked turkey. As an aside, a large piece of meat, typically served during the holidays will continue to cook when removed from the oven. This is called carry over cooking. One can expect to see 5 – 7 degrees in temperature rise afterward. So pull it from the oven when it is 5-7 degrees from the target.

A fat separator is always important for making good gravies.

A good roasting rack is essential to a well roasted piece of meat. I like the one from Cuisipro best. It comes apart in the middle to ease removal from the rack, without the need to pierce the meat with forks. It cleans well also.

Cutting the meat will require a good surface. I like the Epicurean cutting board. It is made of natural fiber composite laminates. They are heat resistant, won’t harm your knives and can go in the dishwasher.

To get the best results from your presentation, a good carving set is necessary. I prefer a non-serrated knife. There will be less tearing of the meat and non-serrated knives can be sharpened. However, many people prefer an electric knife.

Many of you also enjoying brining your turkeys or hams. It is another good way to ensure a moister roast. If this is your intention, then a brining bag and a mix is what you will need.

Mashed potatoes are always a holiday favorite. You can use several methods to achieve the goal. One use a potato ricer, two use a food mill, or you can do it the old fashion way using a hand held potato masher.

Many of us find it difficult to get those side dishes in the oven and ready soon after the main meat dish comes out of the oven – lack of space is one reason. This device may be your answer. Multi-Tier Oven Rack.

And when all the cooking is done, you will need a nice serving platter to bring it to the table.

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