If you are like me then Thanksgiving leftovers are the best part of the holiday. But as we all know, cold turkey sandwiches can wear out fast. You eat and eat and eat, but still there are refrigerators and freezers full of food. I mean there is so much food you can barely think about consuming another bite. No more. Below are eight creative and unique way to help you conquer those leftovers.
Mashing Up Mashed Potatoes
I am more of a sweet potato guy myself, but no judgement if you prefer mashed potatoes. In fact, mashed potatoes are one of the easiest meals to transform into something new. For instance, you can make a pizza out of them. Seriously! First pre-bake your favorite pizza dough until the edges are just set, then spread the leftover mashed potatoes over the crust. After that sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the top and add crumbled bacon and green onion. Mmmmm
Here Is Another Thing To Add Eggs To
It seems like eggs are on everything these days. Burgers, salads, I even had a Chipotle employee ask me if I wanted egg in my steak burrito (not really I am just being dramatic). So why not turn your Thanksgiving leftovers into an eggtravaganza? First, stir-fry chopped cooked beans and any other leftover veggies in oil, then add cold cooked rice, and toss until coated. Next, fold in leftover turkey or ham, and add a splash of soy sauce. Serve topped with a fried egg.
For Cereal?
For all you cereal lovers out there I have a winner for you. This recipe is nice because most of the time Thanksgiving leftovers are consumed at lunch or dinner. But I am about to change that right now. Swirl a scoop of cranberry relish into hot oatmeal, cereal, granola, quinoa porridge, or cream of wheat for a sweet-tart and colorful addition to breakfast. You can experiment with this recipe by mixing your cranberry relish into cream cheese for your morning bagel.
Here Comes The Gravy Boat
Who doesn’t love homemade gravy? It is so important and versatile. You can use it to add flavor to your meat, mashed potatoes, and stuffing. And now, you can add it to your fries. Try drizzling your hot french fries with warm leftover gravy for the classic Canadian late-night snack. Thank you to our friends north of the border.
Stuffing
I am not much of a stuffing fan (I can hear the jaws hitting the floor). The reason being is I am not much of a bread eater (I know it is shocking). Regardless, for many the stuffing is the best part of the Thanksgiving meal. Well, get ready because I am about to make breakfast your favorite meal (if it isn’t your favorite already…it’s not mine =D). Begin by warming your stuffing in a nonstick oven-proof skillet. Then add beaten eggs and your favorite shredded cheese and cook until just set. After that pop it under the broiler until cooked through and golden.
Sweet Potatoes
Now it’s time for my personal favorite. If your not a sweet potato fan then I am feel sorry for you because you are missing out big time. Don’t believe me? Let me prove it to you. Start by simmering leftover sweet potatoes with curry paste, chicken stock and coconut milk for a fragrant soup that is great with any leftover green vegetables you may have on hand.
My Little Dumpling
My sister loved chicken and dumplings. They were her favorite meal. So this recipe is for her. Begin by tossing finely chopped roasted turkey, carrots, scallions and ginger into homemade dumplings. Then put them in a hot pot of chicken stock and rice. Serve and enjoy.
America’s Favorite–Apple Pie
Everyone knows that America’s past-time favorites are watermelons and apple pie. And who can turn down a fresh baked apple pie? Not me that’s for sure. Here is a nice twist on traditional apple pie to shake things up this year. Add a slice of apple pie to your favorite milkshake and top it with a drizzle of caramel sauce, nuts, or both.
Say goodbye to boring leftovers and hello to an entourage of new cuisine. Happy cooking and happy Thanksgiving!
Resources:
Food Network
https://www.foodnetwork.com/thanksgiving/leftovers/creative-thanksgiving-leftovers