Thanksgiving tips from metro Detroit’s top chefs

Moms and dads looking to rule an amazing Thanksgiving table can really change it up this year thanks to some local culinary marvels thought up by metro Detroit’s top chefs. 

The main event

No. 1 tip: Brine your turkey! I make a flavorful brine out of oranges, salt, apple juice, water, thyme, garlic and peppercorns, then brine the bird overnight. It’s not always possible with space issues, but if you can, your turkey will be majorly moist and flavorful.

– Mark Djozlija, Wright & Co 

The stuffing

For a fun twist on stuffing, I like to use corn bread instead of Stovetop or traditional white bread stuffing. Cornbread adds sweetness and some spicy pork sausage is a great way to give your Thanksgiving a little southern flare. 

– John Vermiglio, Grey Ghost Detroit

Nduja Stuffing is my jam! Add this spicy Southern Italian salami along with toasted ciabatta, oregano, chicken stock and onions for some nice complexity. Put the stuffing inside the turkey and bake into your casserole dish. Don’t forget the wine! Riesling will pair great with this to cut the spice. 

– Anthony Lomboardo, SheWolf 

A pop of color 

While it’s easy to grab a can of cranberry, it’s also easy and totally satisfying to make your own! Simply grab a bag of dried cranberries, macerate with sugar and simmer on the stovetop with orange juice, minced apples, shallot and thyme for about an hour and a half. It gives you a much more exciting cranberry sauce/chutney that compliments every dish on your table. 

– Joe Giacomino, Grey Ghost Detroit

Desserts

My favorite thing to eat on Thanksgiving is apple pie, but the crust has to be perfect. Don’t go cheap on the butter, it is the most important ingredient of a good crust. After you make the dough, make sure you let it rest for at least three hours wrapped in the refrigerator before rolling out. 

– Nick Janutol, Leila Detroit

Mise en place (setting up) is the key to success! Most people don’t realize that you can have 90% of your prep work done the day before, allowing you to relax (and more time for football!) Also, switch things up by pickling your cranberries (1 1/3 cup honey, 1 pound cranberries, 2/3 cup red wine vinegar – cook honey over medium heat until caramelized, add vinegar and simmer, then add cranberries ‘til softened). 

– Andy Hollyday, Selden Standard

Looking for even more Thanksgiving recipes? Check out our Kids Holiday Menu, which features six recipes kids can help out with.