Christmas dinner cooking hacks
For most of us Christmas time is all about the food, and here at Good Housekeeping we've picked up a few foolproof tips and tricks to ensure your recipes are a success. Whether you want advice on cooking your turkey or need to save a gravy disaster, the GH Cookery Team have you covered.
1
Stale mince pies
Sometimes our stock of mince pies is too much even for us. If you've got some that are past their best, use them as an ice cream topper.
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2
Berry decoration
Add a finishing touch to your presentation with berries, just make sure they're dry before you start.
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3
Poultry garnish
Add stuffing balls for the perfect poultry garnish.
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4
Marzipan alternative
If you don't like marzipan, you can save the Christmas cake with 2 layers of sugar paste or one layer and an added layer of royal icing.
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5
Gravy flour fails
Dinner isn't dinner without the gravy, so use these foolproof tips to salvage yours.
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6
Gravy disaster
Try our ultimate gravy recipe, but don't worry if you've over seasoned.
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7
The size of your turkey
Use our foolproof time planner to get your cooking times just right.
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8
Using dried herbs
Never underestimate the power of a dried herb.
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9
Icing your Christmas cake
Get prepared by icing your Christmas cake early.
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10
Boring mincepies
Save time by buying your mincemeat from the supermarket, but add some extra flavouring.
Add 1-2tbsp brandy, the zest of one lemon and one chopped ginger stem per 454g jar.
Or try our ultimate mince pie recipe.
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Add 1-2tbsp brandy, the zest of one lemon and one chopped ginger stem per 454g jar.
Or try our ultimate mince pie recipe.
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11
Canapé question
If you're throwing a soiree that is all about the canapés, ensure you have enough to go round.
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12
Spoilt appetites
Don't fill people up with pre-dinner snacks when you've put so much effort into the main event.
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13
Baste your bird
Keep your turkey from going dry by basting it at least three times as it cooks.
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14
Leftover gravy
Don't throw gravy away. You'll be happy to have less work a week later when the festive season has past.
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15
Bread sauce
If you're adding this classic touch to your bread sauce, give it a crumple - you'll notice the results.
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