the menu: week of november 24

Ah, the week of food is finally here. I mentioned last week that my mother-in-law is cooking this year and I am thrilled. I have been charged with bringing gravy, stuffing, and cranberry. I can handle that. We will be trying this (make-ahead) gravy from Food and Wine this Thanksgiving. Will let you know how it goes as it may reappear at Christmas.

On Friday, we will be heading up to camp in a yurt with family friends. This fantastic tradition was started by some good friends several years ago and we haven’t missed a year since. We head out the morning after Thanksgiving, each family bringing one meal to share. We play games, sled, make snow angels, ski, and completely unplug while the rest of the country hits Black Friday. I love this tradition. This year, I’ll be bringing dinner to share. A little post-Thanksgiving crock pot action that you should try sometime during the week for an easy, tasty supper.

What to do with the rest of the week? An excellent question. Certainly no turkey. I’m not all that inclined towards chicken either but I guess I have to give my kids some protein. So here we go…

Monday. Cod with Lemon and Thyme and Cauliflower Mash 

Tuesday. Baked Chicken and Baked Gnocchi with Brown Butter, Pancetta, and Sage 

Wednesday. Wheat Berry Salad with Roasted Vegetables 

Thursday. Big Turkey Dinner

Friday. Slow Cooker Pork Chops with Black-Eyed Peas 

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

And I would be remiss if I didn't say happy birthday to our oldest twins, Abby and Logan, who turn 16 today. You two crack me up. You are wonderful kids and wonderful siblings. Hope 16 is your best year yet!