The holiday season has arrived, bringing with it a festive atmosphere and, of course, the all-important holiday meal. To help make your celebration and holiday feast stress-free and memorable, Chef Cody Abrams, Director of Culinary Operations at M Culinary, gave us his top holiday cooking tips. Whether you’re hosting a dinner for family or friends, these expert insights will help you spend more time enjoying the festivities and less time in the kitchen.
MORE NEWS: Ranking Arizona: Top 10 golf courses for 2024
Brine Your Turkey for Maximum Juiciness
Cooking a turkey can be a challenge, especially when it comes to keeping it tender and juicy. Chef Cody’s secret weapon? Brining. By soaking your turkey in a flavorful saltwater brine (enhanced with herbs, spices, and a bit of sugar for sweetness), you’ll ensure the meat remains moist—even if you accidentally cook it a bit too long. Let your turkey soak for at least 24 hours before roasting, and your guests will notice the remarkable difference in both flavor and texture.
Prep Ingredients Ahead of Time
Take some of the pressure off the big day by prepping your ingredients in advance. Spend the day before chopping vegetables, mincing herbs and preparing sauces or dressings. This advance work will save you valuable time on the day of your holiday meal, allowing you to focus on the fun of cooking and spending time with your guests. With everything ready to go, you’ll be able to enjoy the celebration without a last-minute rush in the kitchen.
Clean as You Go
One of the most dreaded parts of hosting a holiday meal is the post-meal clean up. To avoid a pile-up of dirty dishes, make it a habit to clean as you cook. Wash utensils, cutting boards and bowls after each task, and tidy up as you go along. This way, when the meal is over and everyone is relaxing, you won’t be left with a mountain of dishes.
Use Your Oven as a Warming Station
Timing is key when serving a multi-course holiday meal with various side dishes. Chef Cody recommends using your oven as a warming station to keep everything at the right temperature. Set the oven to a low 185ºF, cover your dishes with aluminum foil, and place them in the oven. This will keep your food warm and ready to serve without the risk of overcooking, so when it’s time to eat, everything will be perfectly heated and ready to enjoy.
Consider a Potluck for Less Stress
Hosting a holiday meal doesn’t mean you have to do it all on your own. Encourage your guests to bring a dish or two to lighten the load. A potluck adds variety to the menu and gives you a break from the kitchen, so you can enjoy the event just as much as everyone else. Plus, sharing favorite family recipes creates a warm, communal atmosphere around the table.
With Chef Cody’s expert advice, your holiday feast will be as easy to prepare as it is delightful to enjoy.
Bonus Tip
For a truly stress-free holiday, let M Culinary Concepts handle the catering for you. No need to worry about chopping, cooking, or cleaning up—just enjoy the meal and the company of your loved ones. This year, take the pressure off and savor the celebration!
Author: Madison LaBerge is Content Specialist at M Culinary Concepts, Arizona’s largest catering and hospitality company. To learn more and enquire with M Culinary Concepts, visit www.mculinary.com.
