Meatless Turkey Talk

A neighbor's sister-in-law just delivered a baby. The new parents are vegetarians. How should we convey congratulations this thanksgiving holiday?

 

Here's the plan for a RK Vegetarian Turkey (does anybody wish to make useful suggestions?):

PRELIMINARY (SHOPPING)

1. Pick up RK's, marshmallows, and marshmallow fluff.

2. Pick up whole broasted chicken (will use it as a shape guide).

3. Pick up small bag of candies (will use it to make stuffing).
4. Pick up Temperature Probes.

PHASE I (est. 5-10 minutes)

5. Trim and remove one wing, one thigh, and one leg from the bird and then wrap individually in plastic (use for shape guides).

PHASE II (est. 10-15 minutes)

1. Make a template of the candy bag and candies (wrapped in plastic and coated with no-stick spray) to hold the body shape. Set aside.                           
2. Spread wax paper on working surface and coat with no-stick spray.

3. Cook marshmallows and coat RK's per normal, mixing by hand in large bowl. (Hint: spray spoon and spatula with no-stick).                                         
4. Form the wings, legs, and thighs separately, eventually attaching them onto the carcass (using marshmallow fluff if required).

PHASE III (est. 5-20 minutes)

5. Form the carcass around a "body cavity" using the shape template.

6. Create paper socks for feet. Assemble pieces. Insert temperature probe.
7. Wrap in plastic to hold shape while bird cools and shape sets up.

8. Place completed bird on platter arranged with cranberries.

Good to Go!

Now for the unknowns:

• I photographed and documented the steps of my progress (using tripod to hold camera and attempt to maintain cleanliness). Since there were two temperature probes in the pack I plan to make two birds (Note: update photos too if required). Also bird #2 should be quicker to make tomorrow (learning curve). I will collect elapsed times.
• I followed the routine instructions for one batch of RK Treats: 3 Tbs butter, 6 cups of RK's and 10 oz bag of marshmallows. My intention is that this bird is good enough to eat. The recipe should complete each bird (what's a henway?)
• Instead of spraying a pan with no-stick I sprayed my hands prior to working the shapes. First I  made "stuffing" template. Then I made (6) "limbs" and the carcass. I worked fast enough before the treats set up..I wasn't concerned with adding sprinkles. Perhaps "dusting" with a crushed RK coat is desired (especially if any trimming of completed shapes is required)!
• I didn't use toothpicks (didn't need them) but if so I would poke them into the carcass first and attach limbs second so picks will not be visible.
• Finally I transferred the "small turkey" to the platter with the cranberry ring glued using marshmallow cream. I wrapped the whole thing and will deliver it tonight,

The moral of the instruction is never allow an engineer too much time on his hands over the holidays.

Finale: Turkey #2 is finished. The time estimates were fairly accurate. Unfortunately #2 is not as pretty as #1 was. The no-stick spray was not nearly so invasive, plus it was nice to relinquish the hassle of a camera. I believe the taste and general effect will be pleasant...especially for a surprise gift.

What's next? Have you ever heard of such a thing as a chocolate moose!