Preparing for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving will be upon us in no time and our friend, Rick Rodgers, is riding in on his white horse (or donning his apron carrying a perfect turkey) to save the day. He won’t actually arrive at your house with a turkey, but he will be here at Eat Your Books to help our members with any cooking or baking questions. Even the most experienced cook can benefit from Rick’s knowledge.

The Wednesday before Thanksgiving, I will post a Thanksgiving Day help article. For one week, November 16th through the 23rd at 3 p.m. – Rick will answer any questions left on that post throughout each day, several times a day. After 3 p.m on the 23rd, Rick will be busy making his own Thanksgiving dinner – so get your questions in early! Be sure to look for that post on the 17th to leave your comments.

Why are we posting this news so far in advance? We want everyone to have plenty of time to plan their menus, check out the books Rick personally recommends to help you through the Thanksgiving Day meal and for Eat Your Book members to share this post (and the post on the 16th) so that we can take full advantage of Rick’s generous offer.

Rick Rodgers has written some great books and I will highlight a few for you today that are guaranteed to guide you through a tasty holiday.

Thanksgiving 101: Foolproof Recipes for Turkey, Stuffings and Dressings, Cranberry Sauce, Pumpkin Pie, and More! 

In this book you will find step-by-step instructions for classic dishes, as well as new twists on old favorites. Whether you’re looking for new ways to cook turkey; traditional trimmings, chutneys, or chowders; a vegetarian entrée; or fresh ideas for regional classics, including Cajun or Italian inspired tastes, this title serves up a delicious education for the novice or experienced cook. Foolproof recipes, detailed menu timetables, and down-to-earth advice – keep this book handy for all your Thanksgiving day needs. 

The Big Book of Sides: More Than 450 Recipes for the Best Vegetables, Grains, Salads, Breads, Sauces, and More 

For me, Thanksgiving is all about the sides and this tome is the ultimate side dish lovers dream. Rick has carefully compiled a variety of wonderful options, from traditional to inspired, Americana to ethnic, Southern fare to California cuisine and everything in between. Sections include “Eat Your Vegetables,” “From the Root Cellar,” “A Hill of Beans,” “Righteous Rice and Great Grains,” and “Pasta and Friends.” This book is not only a perfect resource for holiday menu planning – it is also a lifesaver throughout the year. Tired of the same old side dishes during the weekly rotation? Switch it up with one of the many variations in this encyclopedia of side dishes!   

Kaffeehaus: Exquisite Desserts from the Classic Cafés of Vienna, Budapest, and Prague

Kaffeehaus is truly one of my favorite baking books – it is simply beautiful. I have gifted this title to many friends. I’ve added it to this holiday arsenal to level up your dessert planning. I understand the need for tradition – but along side that pumpkin pie I like to offer something show stopping and this title delivers. 150 impeccable recipes for recreating legendary cakes and pastries in the home kitchen from some of the dessert capitals of the world. The Vanilla Crescents are to die for – if your dessert menu is set – this book can offer options for breakfast or brunch as well. 

The Model Bakery Cookbook: 75 Favorite Recipes from the Beloved Napa Valley Bakery

I can never pass up a bakery cookbook and when I bought this title, I didn’t even realize that Rick had help to write it (even through his name is clearly on the cover). Model Bakery is known for their sensational artisan baked goods that build lines of guests out the door! Featuring 75 recipes and 60 photos, it shares their most-requested breads, classic desserts, and fresh pastries. Pain au Levain, Sticky Buns, Peach Streusel Pie, Ginger Molasses Cookies are examples of the recipes contained in this baking book. Breakfast, brunch or dessert can be a surefire hit with the addition of a recipe from this title. 

Christmas 101: Celebrate the Holiday Season-From Christmas to New Year’s

It’s never too early to start thinking about Christmas. Christmas 101 offers carefree ways to entertain with proven recipes including old favorites, menus, timetables, make-ahead tips, and more. How to throw a fabulous cocktail party, traditional buffet, cook a perfect roast, and spice up your favorite recipes with a contemporary twist. Breads, candies, and desserts that are the tokens of this special time of year are also included. 

Check out Rick’s library of work – there are many books besides the titles listed here – use the Buy Book button on the library listing to support Eat Your Books and Rick Rodgers. Check back on the 16th to submit your comments to Rick and take some pressure off yourself. Happy planning!