November 2017 Food and Wine Recipe Roundup - a time to embrace the crisp autumn air, the changing colors of the leaves, and the bounty of the season's harvest. The fall season brings a cornucopia of rich flavors, vibrant colors, and an opportunity to indulge in comfort foods. This year, we've rounded up a selection of recipes from the pages of Food and Wine magazine that perfectly encapsulate the essence of November. From hearty dishes ideal for Thanksgiving to lighter options for those who prefer a little less indulgence, here's your guide to creating memorable meals this month.
Fall Harvest Bounty
November heralds the peak of autumn’s harvest with a variety of produce that fills the markets with vibrant colors. Here are some recipes that utilize the seasonal ingredients:
- Butternut Squash Risotto - A creamy and rich dish that turns butternut squash into an umami masterpiece.
- Roasted Root Vegetables with Herbed Yogurt Sauce - A medley of carrots, parsnips, and turnips, roasted to perfection.
- Apple and Fennel Salad - Crisp apples and fennel create a refreshing side dish or starter.
These dishes not only highlight the abundance of autumn produce but also cater to different tastes, textures, and cooking styles.
Thanksgiving Staples
No roundup of November recipes would be complete without addressing the centerpiece of Thanksgiving, the turkey:
- Herb-Roasted Turkey with Savory Gravy - The classic approach, with a twist of fresh herbs to elevate the traditional flavors.
- Chestnut and Sausage Stuffing - A rich, flavorful stuffing that combines the sweetness of chestnuts with the spice of sausage.
🍁 Note: Don't forget to let the turkey rest after roasting to ensure it remains juicy and tender.
Vegetarian Delights
For those looking for alternatives to the traditional Thanksgiving fare, we’ve got some inspired vegetarian options:
- Stuffed Acorn Squash - Filled with quinoa, cranberries, and pecans for a hearty, vegan-friendly entree.
- Spiced Pumpkin Soup - A bowl of velvety soup that’s both comforting and nourishing.
Desserts that Celebrate Fall
Desserts are a highlight of any November feast, and this selection captures the essence of the season:
- Apple Crisp with Maple Ice Cream - The warm apple crisp topped with a homemade maple-infused ice cream.
- Pumpkin Cheesecake - A luxurious dessert that combines the traditional pumpkin pie flavors with the rich creaminess of cheesecake.
- Cranberry Orange Upside-Down Cake - A vibrant, tangy cake that’s as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate.
🥧 Note: Ensure that your cheesecake is set by checking the internal temperature should be around 150°F (65°C) before removing from the oven.
Wine Pairings
| Dish | Wine Pairing |
|---|---|
| Butternut Squash Risotto | Chenin Blanc |
| Roasted Turkey | Pinot Noir |
| Pumpkin Cheesecake | Late Harvest Riesling |
These pairings not only complement the flavors of your dishes but also enhance the dining experience, making your November meals even more special.
As we wrap up our November 2017 Food and Wine Recipe Roundup, it's clear that this season is a celebration of flavors and culinary traditions. From the richness of butternut squash risotto to the warmth of spiced pumpkin soup, and from the tradition of herb-roasted turkey to the modern twist of a cranberry orange cake, these recipes offer something for every palate. Remember, the key to a successful November feast lies not just in the ingredients but in the care and love with which they're prepared. These dishes, paired with the right wines, create a symphony of tastes that define the season of gratitude and togetherness.
What makes November special for food enthusiasts?
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November is synonymous with the Thanksgiving holiday, which brings families and friends together to share a meal. It’s a time when seasonal ingredients are at their peak, leading to an abundance of hearty and comforting dishes.
Why is it important to let the turkey rest after roasting?
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Resting the turkey allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making it more flavorful and tender. If you cut into a turkey too soon, the juices escape, resulting in drier meat.
Can these recipes be adapted for vegetarians?
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Absolutely! Many of the recipes, like the Stuffed Acorn Squash and the Apple Crisp with Maple Ice Cream, are naturally vegetarian or can be easily modified. For others, substituting meat with plant-based proteins or mushrooms can offer similar textures and flavors.
