Thanksgiving Ravings

I am starting to feel a little panic as I come into the home stretch of Thanksgiving. The menu is pretty much set in stone as a family tradition so it becomes a little easier each year to produce this feast. This doesn't mean I don't still get nervous each year, especially this year with several sick kids going into the holiday.

This is our traditional menu -

Deep Fried Turkey - This is brined at least 12 hours in advance
Smoked Deep Fried Turkey - This was an experiment last year and it was a hit.. It is locally hardwood smoked not the petrified ones you find at the grocer and I also brine it to re-hydrate it a bit.

Sweet Potato Casserole With Praline Topping
Sage Turkey Dressing
Mashed Potatoes and Gravy
Buttered Corn - Frozen from my garden
Cranberry & Mandarin Orange blend
Rolls

Sour Cream Apple Pie
Pecan Pie
Pumpkin Pie

I make the pies a day in advance and chop everything ahead of time for sides so they are ready and waiting for me in the refrigerator on Thanksgiving morning. I am also making my stock a day ahead so is it chilled waiting for me to take the fat off the top and use it as I wish in my gravy and dressing recipes. I also bake and peel my sweet potatoes ahead of time so I have very little prep on Thanksgiving day.

Oh and I can't forget to pick up some apple cider today so I can make some Hot Mulled Cider. I would never be forgiven if I forgot this family tradition. ;)