She’s definitely going to haunt me for writing this.
For most cooks, dry turkey is the ultimate nightmare of preparing Thanksgiving dinner.
And by-and-large, theyve all delivered approximately the same results.
Credit: Photographer- Alison Miksch / Prop Stylist- Kay E. Clarke / Food Stylist- Mary Claire Britto
On the contrary, she says that my turkey is TOO moist.
I like dry turkey, she says.
Frustrated, I asked her why in the world she prefers her bird drier than the Sahara Desert.
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Her answer surprised me.
Its how Mama made it.
My grandmother, May, was abig-hearted, graciousSouthern queen who I recall being a stellar cook.
My grandmother, Mary Rowland Bass (AKA May) in her favorite plaid Christmas skirt.
Mama didnt do anything to her turkey, she remembers.
No basting, brining, or anything.
Mama cooked her turkey overnight, she says.
Yes indeed, overnight.
My grandmother habitually procrastinated at the holidays and wouldnt really start cooking until 10 oclock the night before.
Shed put the turkey in the oven around midnightyes, MIDNIGHTand then shed go to bed!
Oh, the humanity!
I know Im in trouble, and Im sorry.
And you did it wonderfully.
The memories made around your table are ones I will cherish my whole life.
But thats another story.
Wishing all of you moist turkeys and happy memories this holiday season.
