Thanksgiving RV Style

11-16-2015

Thanksgiving RV Style
By Tammy Daly

As the holidays approach and plans are made, fulltime RVers can still enjoy turkey and all the trimmings on Turkey day. Although, there may be some differences in your preparation, living in your RV does not have to lessen your holiday cheer or spirit. I will save you the “Home Is Where the Heart Is” portion of this holiday story and move directly into the meal and how to prepare for it.

The Turkey
These days there are so many new ways to cook your turkey. If you choose to go the traditional route and your coach has an oven, it is a good idea to begin cooking what side dishes you can a few days ahead of time. That way you have time to cook your turkey in your smaller oven. If you do not have an oven, the holidays can still be as hearty. Try using a deep fryer or barbeque to cook your bird. Smoking a turkey is one of the tastiest ways to cook a turkey and fried turkey is said to be one of the juiciest turkeys.

Side Dishes
Many side dishes can be cooked in a toaster oven and many can be prepared ahead of time. Mashed potatoes and stuffing can be made the day before and warmed up. I personally love next day stuffing. Sweet Potatoes are also really good when rewarmed in a microwave. There are also thousands of slow cooker recipes for your sides. If you are having guests or want to join other RVers in the festivities you can make it a Pot Luck. The more the merrier I always say, and maybe you can learn some new tips from your neighbors for next year.

Desserts
There are so many dessert options from baking ahead of time to making the run to your local large membership store (Costco, Sam’s Club) and purchasing a pie to die for. Personally, I love Marie Callender’s pies and as long as you call ahead of time you can pick up a fresh one the night before or the day of if they are open.

Other Dining Options
Many local restaurants are open to host Thanksgiving dinner. You can relax and have a stress free dinner with all of the trimmings. It is a good time to enjoy your family and friends without having to be tied up in the kitchen all day. Another option is to call your local homeless shelter and donate your time to serving those less fortunate. Your meal is typically included for volunteering and it is a great way to start the holiday season by giving back.

All in all, whether you decide to have a feast or serve those in need, it is all up to you. Now here comes the “Home Is Where the Heart Is” portion. The holidays are what you make them and whether you are in your RV with the ones you love or spending time around the table at a fine restaurant, home truly is…where the heart is. Happy Thanksgiving!

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Tammy Daly

Author: Tammy Daly

Tammy Daly has been working as a freelance writer since 2005. She began writing for her college paper, as a movie critic, while she attended college in Riverside, CA. Her informative articles and how-to guides have appeared on numerous websites and in several magazines. Tammy is also employed as a Parts Manager at Leale’s Fleet & RV Service Center in San Jose, CA and has been in the automotive industry for over 15 years. She is considered an expert in this field as well as in the sports/fitness industry. Tammy has coached gymnastics and fitness classes for over 20 years. She holds coaching certificates in both gymnastics and cheerleading from USAG.