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    10 tricks to a trouble-free Thanksgiving

    Photo by: Anson Smart
    Problem: You can’t buy all the food you’ll need for the big day in a single trip.-
    Solution: Divide and conquer. Besides the fact that an entire feast’s worth of ... more 
    Photo by: Anson Smart
    Problem: You can’t buy all the food you’ll need for the big day in a single trip.-
    Solution: Divide and conquer. Besides the fact that an entire feast’s worth of grocery bags is too much for one woman to carryor one trunk to hold―you’re more likely to forget a key ingredient or encounter depleted shelves if you try to buy everything in one go at the last minute.

    A month before Thanksgiving, make a master list of what you’ll need, then divide it into perishables (dairy products, eggs, produce) and nonperishables (canned goods, spices, baking supplies). Buy everything that won’t spoil as far in advance as you can. Return for the turkey, the herbs, and the cheeses a few days before you begin cooking.

    More holiday tips: How to Fix 10 Common Thanksgiving Problems

    Problem: You got everything inside the refrigerator, but closing the door is another story.

    Solution: Empty the refrigerator of all but the essentials. “I’ve found so many things in people’s refrigerators that don’t need to be in there, like vinegars and jars of unopened jellies,” says Jennifer Clair, owner of Home Cooking New York, in New York City.

    * Make space for Thanksgiving by cleaning out unidentifiable leftovers and expired condiments and using up as much a less 
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    Tue, Nov 8, 2011 4:31 PM EST
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    Quick fixes for common Thanksgiving cooking crises―from an overflowing refrigerator to an undercooked turkey―will guarantee a terrific meal.





    More Turkey Day tips from Real Simple:


    Scene-Stealing Thanksgiving Side Dishes


    The Best Turkey Essentials


    Easy Ways to Reduce Holiday Stress


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