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)
- Pick up RK's, marshmallows, and marshmallow fluff.
- Pick up whole broasted chicken (will use it as a shape guide).
- Pick up small bag of candies (will use it to make stuffing).
- Pick up Temperature Probes.
PHASE I (est. 5-10 minutes)
- 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)
- 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.
- Spread wax paper on working surface and coat with no-stick spray.
- Cook marshmallows and coat RK's per normal, mixing by hand in large bowl. (Hint: spray spoon and spatula with no-stick).
- Form the wings, legs, and thighs separately, eventually attaching them onto the carcass (using marshmallow fluff if required).
PHASE III (est. 5-20 minutes)
- Form the carcass around a "body cavity" using the shape template.
- Create paper socks for feet. Assemble pieces. Insert temperature probe.
- Wrap in plastic to hold shape while bird cools and shape sets up.
- 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!
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!
Use oatmeal and hummas next time
ReplyDeleteThe choice of ingredients is up to the consumer. Since I regularly make and consume RK Treats I thought this would be a fun way to spruce up the main entree and the dessert for the holidays.
ReplyDeleteSide Note: I too eat oatmeal for breakfast!