By Kelli Stovall
A friend asked that I share tips for the perfect thanksgiving turkey. I’ve tried many techniques to master the bird including tenting with aluminum foil while cooking, roasting in baking bags, and even brining in salt and ice for a couple of days.
While each method turned out satisfactory results, my best advice is to make sure the oven is on. Yes, on. My most fun thanksgiving memory is the year my toddler inadvertently hit the cancel button on the front of the oven. Of course, this was not discovered until the kitchen timer alerted that cooking time had ended.
I’ve lived many thanksgivings since that one, but none that make me smile as that one does. So my advice is this. If the turkey is cooked, then it’s a good day.
Here is a holiday appetizer that uses fresh cranberries and can be prepared in a flash with just a few ingredients. It will help bridge the gap caused by unforeseen dinner delays. Enjoy!
Cranberry Stuffing Bites
1 Box of Stove Top Stuffing (any flavor)
1 cup boiling water
1 cup fresh cranberries
1/4 cup granulated sugar
2 Tbsp fresh green onions, diced
3 slices thick slab bacon, fried and diced
1 Tbsp butter, softened
In a microwave safe dish, stir together 1 cup fresh cranberries and 1/4 cup granulated sugar. Heat in microwave on high for 45 seconds. Stir cranberries, then heat for an additional 45 seconds.
In a medium mixing bowl, add 1 box Stove Top Stuffing, green onions, bacon, and softened butter. Add 1 cup boiling water to stuffing mixture, and gently fold all ingredients together. Gently fold in cranberries.
Form small balls of stuffing and place on cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. Place in 350 degree preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes.
