Five Ways to Break the Rules this Thanksgivukkah

1. Start with Latkes, Put Your Guests to Work and Dress Like an Idiot!

The latke is best, by far, right out of the pan, after it has rested for only a moment on paper towels which soak up some oil. When they are part of the main course they are inevitably room temperature, greasy and limp. GROSS! By serving them as appetizers, they can be eaten fresh, as designed by God.

Don’t slave in the kitchen while everyone else is in the living room. Make the kitchen the room to live in! Set up a self-serve wine corner or cheese plate…it will entice them in. Who cares if you have a small kitchen, get crowded in there! To start the process just stick tongs in someones hands and push them towards the skillet. Give necessary instructions. Some are going jump to help, while others will just stick around to eat. Either way is good and will ensure a fun evening.

Kids love to be involved too. Last year I had 6 year-old Zachary and 4 year-old Jessica shape the latkes on a plate away from the skillet and then use their tiny fingers to sprinkle salt on the finished ones. They then “played waiter” and passed them around. Since their Auntie Elana was frying latkes with a menorah hat on her head (the year before it was dreidel ears), the kitchen atmosphere was immediately one of play and fun and they couldn’t wait to participate. I’m making good yentas and menches of them!

This year for Thanksgivukkah eat “>here. 

“>EASIEST Turkey Ever, au jus (with yummied-up pan juices) click “>beginners' Turkey Carving click “>Get the recipe for mine here.