In the aftermath of Thanksgiving, when the dining table has been cleared and the guests have departed, there is often an abundance of leftovers remaining. Casey Barber, in an article published by CNN, explores creative ideas for utilizing these Thanksgiving leftovers in a way that transforms them into delicious meals. From reinventing the remaining turkey into comforting pot pies and sandwiches to repurposing the mashed potatoes into crispy potato pancakes, this article provides practical and resourceful solutions for maximizing the use of Thanksgiving food. So, instead of letting those leftovers go to waste, readers can discover new and inventive ways to enjoy the remnants of the feast.
Thanksgiving leftovers: What to do with all the food
Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones and enjoying a delicious feast. But what happens when you have cooked for 20 people and there are only 6 people to feed? Leftovers, of course! Leftovers are a common occurrence after Thanksgiving, and knowing how to make the most out of them can help prevent food waste and provide delicious meals for days to come. In this article, we will explore various ways to repurpose Thanksgiving leftovers and turn them into new and exciting dishes.
H3_1: Creating sandwiches and wraps
One of the simplest and most convenient ways to use Thanksgiving leftovers is to create sandwiches and wraps. Turkey sandwiches are a classic choice, but you can also get creative by adding cranberry sauce, stuffing, and even mashed potatoes to your sandwiches. Another option is to wrap the leftovers in tortillas or lettuce wraps to create flavorful and easy-to-eat wraps. These handheld meals are perfect for quick lunches or on-the-go snacks.
H3_2: Making soups and stews
Another great way to transform Thanksgiving leftovers is to make soups and stews. The turkey carcass can be used to create a flavorful broth, which can then be used as the base for a comforting soup. You can add leftover turkey meat, vegetables, and even stuffing or mashed potatoes to create a hearty and satisfying meal. Don’t forget to season with herbs and spices to enhance the flavors.
H3_3: Repurposing sides into new dishes
Leftover sides, such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, and green bean casserole, can be transformed into new and exciting dishes. Mashed potatoes can be used as a base for shepherd’s pie or turned into potato pancakes. Stuffing can be used to stuff vegetables, such as bell peppers or mushrooms, or even made into a savory bread pudding. Green bean casserole can be combined with pasta and cheese to create a delicious baked pasta dish.
H3_4: Creating turkey pot pie
If you have a lot of leftover turkey meat, why not make a turkey pot pie? This classic dish is comforting and can easily be made using Thanksgiving leftovers. Simply mix the turkey meat with vegetables, such as carrots, peas, and corn, in a creamy sauce. Top it off with a flaky pastry crust and bake until golden and bubbly. This dish is perfect for a cozy dinner on a cold night.
H3_5: Incorporating cranberry sauce into desserts
Cranberry sauce doesn’t have to be limited to just the main course. It can also be used to create delicious desserts. Use it as a filling for muffins or swirl it into cheesecake batter for a tangy and sweet flavor. You can also mix it into yogurt or oatmeal for a nutritious and flavorful breakfast. The possibilities are endless when it comes to incorporating cranberry sauce into desserts.
H3_6: Freezing leftovers for future meals
If you find yourself with an abundance of leftovers, consider freezing them for future meals. Cooked turkey can be portioned and stored in freezer bags or containers for up to three months. Soups, stews, and casseroles can also be frozen and enjoyed later. Just make sure to label them with the date and contents for easy identification. Freezing leftovers not only prolongs their lifespan but also provides convenient meals for busy days.
H3_7: Donating to food banks or shelters
If you find that you still have a surplus of leftovers even after exploring all these options, consider donating them to food banks or shelters. Many organizations accept food donations and can distribute them to those in need. This not only helps prevent food waste but also helps provide meals for individuals and families who may not have access to a Thanksgiving feast. Contact local food banks or shelters to inquire about their donation policies and procedures.
H3_8: Repurposing leftovers into appetizers
Thanksgiving leftovers can also be transformed into tasty appetizers. Use leftover turkey or ham to create sliders, topped with cheese and cranberry sauce. Stuff mushrooms with leftover stuffing and cheese for a flavorful bite-sized snack. Mashed potatoes can be shaped into balls, coated in breadcrumbs, and fried to make crispy potato croquettes. Get creative and experiment with different flavor combinations to wow your guests with unique appetizers.
H3_9: Incorporating leftovers into breakfast dishes
Don’t limit Thanksgiving leftovers to just lunch and dinner. They can also be incorporated into delicious breakfast dishes. Use leftover turkey or ham to make breakfast burritos or omelets. Stuff pancakes or waffles with cranberry sauce and cream cheese for a sweet and tangy twist. Leftover roasted vegetables can be mixed into scrambled eggs or omelets for a nutritious and flavorful start to the day.
H3_10: Getting creative with desserts
Lastly, get creative with desserts using Thanksgiving leftovers. Crumble up leftover pie crusts and mix them with melted butter and sugar to create a delicious pie crust crumble topping for ice cream or fruit desserts. Leftover pumpkin puree can be used to make pumpkin bread or muffins. Combine leftover pie fillings with a scoop of ice cream and blend to create a decadent milkshake. The possibilities are limitless when it comes to repurposing Thanksgiving desserts.
While Thanksgiving leftovers may initially seem overwhelming, they present a wonderful opportunity to experiment and create new and exciting dishes. From sandwiches and wraps to soups and stews, there are countless ways to repurpose Thanksgiving leftovers and turn them into delicious meals. Whether you choose to create savory pot pies or sweet desserts, don’t let those leftovers go to waste. Get creative in the kitchen and enjoy the flavors of Thanksgiving long after the holiday has passed.
