November is here and that means one thing: Thanksgiving! Thanksgiving is by far my favorite holiday which is probably no surprise considering it focuses on great food, wine and most importantly good company! Over the years I have come across a lot of people who find it to be a very stressful holiday trying to get the entire meal prepped, cooked and served hot at the same time. In reality with some proper planning Thanksgiving is a meal that can easily be organized so that the morning of you can enjoy mimosas with your guests and leisurely cycle dishes through the oven. Here is a recipe for a homemade cranberry sauce that can be made and placed in the freezer to be pulled out the day before thanksgiving. At this point in the month you could also think about making pie shells to place in the freezer.
INGREDIENTS:
1 large bag of cranberries (about 6 cups)
3 apples peeled and diced (pears would be great as well)
1 sweet onion diced
1 cinnamon stick
1 star anise
1 bay leaf
1/2 bunch of thyme
4 cups sugar
1/2 bottle red wine
1 cup vinegar ( I used balsamic because that is what I had but cider vinegar or red wine vinegar would also be great options)
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups chopped walnuts
METHOD:
1. In a large sauce pot heat up a small amount of oil and begin to caramelize your onions.
2. Once they begin to lightly brown add your diced apple, spices, and thyme. Stir and continue cooking until the apples begin to sweat.
3. Add your sugar and mix well.
4. As the sugar begins to dissolve add your vinegar and cook until almost reduced.
5. Add the wine. Let everything slowly simmer and reduce into a sauce consistency. Stir frequently. Once it reduces to your desired consistency remove from the heat and season with salt and pepper. Allow to cool completely. Once it is cool you can place in the freezer to save until thanksgiving.
6. Stir in the chopped walnuts just before serving for a nice crunch!
About Chef Alisa:
Viaggio Charter is excited to introduce Chef Alisa Jestel, the newest member of the Viaggio team! Chef Tristin was offered an exciting land based opportunity in Seattle that was too good to pass up. With Tristin moving ashore, Captain Trig found himself in need of a new chef so he turned to his long time friend and prior co-worker Alisa.
Alisa has been cooking professionally around the Seattle area for the past fifteen years, the last six of which have been spent aboard a variety of luxury yachts cruising the Pacific Northwest! Alisa thrives on the abundance of local products available in the area and enjoys creating memorable dining experiences at every opportunity! She customizes each and every meal to the individual needs of VIAGGIO’s guests, and loves taking time to share her passion and knowledge for food with anyone that is interested. Alisa has been known for giving impromptu cooking classes on cooking what you catch, fresh pasta making, and seasonal cooking.
Alisa spends her free time during the off season traveling and exploring her love for food in other countries. She finds her self often revisiting Italy for more extensive training on pasta making and other old world culinary arts! Viaggio Charters is excited to welcome Alisa aboard and looks forward to sharing her culinary delights with you!
Viaggio Yacht Charter – Captain Trig in SE Alaska
For more information visit: www.viaggiocharter.com
Seasoned Crew – Custom Designed Itinerary – Relaxation – Majestic Alaska Beauty
