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Chef Tips: Perfectly Carve Your Turkey This Thanksgiving

11/28/2025

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Chef Carving Tips

Chris Shepherd, award-winning chef, advises resting the turkey for 30–45 minutes to retain juices.
He recommends using a sharp knife for clean cuts, demonstrating how to remove the breast, legs, and wings.
Chef Michael Handal advises inexperienced cooks to carve in the kitchen.
Handal also recommends using a dedicated carving set.
After carving, Handal says to make stock from the carcass or dispose of it properly to avoid plumbing issues.

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Thanksgiving Efficiency Redefined

The author adopts a practical, non-traditional approach to Thanksgiving, prioritizing efficiency over tradition.
They favor quick methods like slicing and chopping over elaborate carving.
The stepfather handles the turkey, aligning with the author's pragmatic philosophy.
The brother-in-law's elaborate Turducken is described as a behind-the-scenes effort.
The piece portrays a casual, non-traditional tone in holiday cooking compared with festive norms.

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Chef Carving Tips

Chris Shepherd, award-winning chef, advises resting the turkey for 30–45 minutes to retain juices.
He recommends using a sharp knife for clean cuts, demonstrating how to remove the breast, legs, and wings.
Chef Michael Handal advises inexperienced cooks to carve in the kitchen.
Handal also recommends using a dedicated carving set.
After carving, Handal says to make stock from the carcass or dispose of it properly to avoid plumbing issues.

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