Planning ahead is essential for any dinner party host. In his book Kitchen Confidential, Anthony Bourdain put it like this: “Prior Preparation Prevents Poor Performance, as they say in the army – and I always, always want to be ready.” Thanksgiving dinner is the ultimate test of culinary preparedness (it’s why there’s a turkey hotline and cannabis-infused gravy recipes). Prior preparation is the home chef’s best friend. (and if you’re looking for something a little different, swap out your white dinnerware for artisanal pieces in turquoise, the colour of the season.)
A delicious meal starts with the right equipment. Here are the kitchen must-haves to ensure your Thanksgiving dinner is executed with military-grade precision.
Kitchen must-haves for Thanksgiving
16″ Stainless Steel Roasting Pan with Rack
This roasting pan with a removable V-rack can hold a bird up to 20lbs and has gold-finished handles for an elegant touch. The rack allows for the fat and juices to drain off, allowing for crispier skin and easy removal. All you need now is the ingredients.
Price: $179.96shop now
4 Cup Fat Separator
A fat separator is a tool to separate fat from other cooking liquid. It’s a gravy godsend– just pour the drippings into the jug (with the spout plugged) and let it sit for a few moments until the fat floats to the top. Plus, it’s got the two magic words: dishwasher safe.
Price: 19.99shop now
Chateau Acacia Wood Cheese Board
Setting a holiday table can be a bit like a jigsaw puzzle. This versatile cheese board looks elegant for coffee table charcuterie or main meal accompaniment. If you’re a fan of this acacia wood finish, the collection also includes a pizza paddle that can be used as a round serving board.
Price: 74shop now
Pie Bird
Cute and practical is a winning combination for cookware. The pie bird helps release steam from your pie, ensure the filling and top crust stays in place and prevents your bottom crust from becoming soggy. This one comes in three colours and is made from durable stoneware.
Price: 15shop now
Classic Straight Carving Knife & Meat Fork Set
The Wüsthof family has been making kitchen knives since the 1880’s. Their custom steel formula has 40 steps to ensure maximum durability and sharpening ease. This set includes a hollow-ground carving knife and carving fork that slice through meat cleanly without tearing.
Price: 348shop now
Magnetic Strip
Always keep your knives within reach with this magnetic strip from the Canadian brand Kilne. Made from durable acacia wood, the accessory is meant to be mounted on your wall to create a handy storage spot for your most crucial culinary tools.
Price: 72shop now
Javelin Instant-Read Thermometer
Meat thermometers are no joke. This model has an excellent reputation and remains ever-easy-to-use. It turns on and off automatically when you release the probe, measures temperatures in 4 seconds, and has a magnet inside for easy storage.
Price: 39.90shop now
Complete Brush Set
Cooking a Thanksgiving dinner on a purely dishwasher-safe basis would be a miracle. If the sight of a green and yellow dish sponge makes you cringe, try these beautiful eco-friendly brushes made from beechwood and natural sisal bristles. The set includes a vegetable brush, pot brush and more.
Price: 44shop now
