The Chicago Journal

Indulge in the Splendors of Indienne’s Michelin-Starred Thanksgiving To-Go Extravaganza

Leah Cooper Leah Cooper on November 27, 2023

As the vibrant city of Chicago revels in the glory of autumn, there’s a new culinary star on the horizon. Freshly adorned with its inaugural Michelin star, the esteemed establishment, Indienne, beckons you to transcend the ordinary this Thanksgiving. Step into a realm where tradition meets innovation, as Indienne unveils a specially curated to-go menu designed to infuse your festive table with the enchanting flavors of India.

Elevated Thanksgiving To-Go Options: A Fusion of Cultures:

Indienne’s culinary artisans have masterfully woven a tapestry of flavors, fusing the warmth of Thanksgiving traditions with the aromatic spices of India. Each dish on the meticulously crafted to-go menu is a testament to the restaurant’s commitment to culinary excellence. Priced at $75 per person, with a minimum order for two, this gastronomic journey encompasses an array of delights, including soul-warming soup, artisanal bread, tantalizing starters, sumptuous mains, delectable sides, and a grand finale of dessert.

Key Details:

Ordering Deadline: Seize the opportunity by placing your order before the curtain falls on November 20.

Pickup Schedule: On November 22, between 1-3 p.m., embark on a culinary adventure as you collect your Thanksgiving feast from the exquisite Indienne, nestled at 217 W. Huron St.

Indienne’s Michelin Star and Culinary Distinction:

Indienne, with its Michelin star adorning its culinary crown, stands as a testament to the city’s diverse and dynamic dining scene. A trailblazer in its own right, Indienne not only secured a Michelin star but also etched its name as the first Indian restaurant in Chicago to receive this prestigious accolade.

Explore the Feast: A Glimpse into Indienne’s Thanksgiving To-Go Menu:

1. Soup: Butternut Squash Symphony

Elevate your senses with the opulent butternut squash soup, a harmonious blend of fennel, ginger, and coconut milk.

2. Bread: Masala Babka Elegance

The air is filled with the heady aroma of masala babka, a luscious creation featuring caramelized onion, garlic, chili, and house-churned truffle butter.

3. Starters: A Prelude to Flavorful Delights

  • Turkey Gustaba: Organic turkey meatballs dance in a rich Kashmiri sauce with a medley of house blend spices.
  • Jackfruit Cutlet (V): Immerse yourself in the vegetarian delight of a tender jackfruit patty, crumb-fried to perfection, accompanied by green mango mustard and tomato chutney.

4. Mains: A Culinary Journey Unfolds

  • Chicken (Mussulam) Roulade: Succulent yogurt-marinated chicken takes center stage, embraced by a house spice blend and saffron musallam gravy.
  • Mushroom Manti (V): Delight in the symphony of flavors as homemade manti pasta is stuffed with spiced mushroom mixture, Parmesan yakhni, walnut, and truffle.

5. Accompaniments: Perfect Complements to the Feast

  • Creamy Mashed Potato: A velvety blend infused with bay leaf and nutmeg.
  • Roasted Brussel Sprouts: A twist of lentils and coconut elevates this Thanksgiving classic.
  • Berry Pulao: Fragrant basmati rice adorned with dried berries and caramelized onions.

6. Dessert: Sweet Finale with Doda-Pecan Tart

Conclude your gastronomic journey with the pièce de résistance, the Doda-Pecan Tart, a sublime creation melding caramelized milk and pecan indulgence.

Takeaway:

Indienne’s Michelin-starred Thanksgiving to-go menu transcends the ordinary, inviting you on a culinary odyssey where every bite tells a story. Immerse yourself in the fusion of Thanksgiving traditions and the exotic allure of Indian spices, meticulously crafted by the culinary maestros at Indienne.

The Art of Safely Thawing Your Thanksgiving Turkey for a Flavorful Feast

Edward Anderson Edward Anderson on November 27, 2023

Taking the helm of Thanksgiving’s centerpiece, the turkey, can be an intimidating responsibility. The concerns expressed by nearly half of Americans, as revealed in a 2021 survey, highlight the anxiety around achieving that perfect, succulent bird. Fear not, as success begins with a crucial step – the proper thawing of the turkey, ensuring not only a safe but also a delicious Thanksgiving celebration.

Understanding the Importance of Thawing:

In the realm of holiday cooking, the Centers for Disease Control underscores the significance of correctly thawing a frozen turkey to mitigate the risk of food poisoning. Fortunately, Butterball, a trusted source in poultry wisdom, provides valuable insights into two recommended thawing methods, each accompanied by its unique considerations.

Thawing Methods:

  1. Refrigerator Thawing:
  • Procedure:
  1. Place the turkey breast side up, in its unopened wrapper, on a tray in the refrigerator, maintaining a temperature of 40°F or below.
  2. Allocate at least one day of thawing for every 4 lbs of turkey.
  3. Keep the turkey in its original packaging and on the tray.
  4. Utilize the thawed turkey within four days.
  • Additional Insights:
  1. The CDC recommends keeping the turkey in the freezer until ready to initiate the thawing process. Furthermore, a turkey thawed in the refrigerator can be stored there for 1 to 2 days before embarking on the cooking journey.
  1. Cold Water Thawing:
  • Procedure:
  1. Thaw the turkey breast side down, in its unopened wrapper, with enough cold water to submerge it completely.
  2. Change the water every 30 minutes; if the turkey cannot be fully submerged, rotate it every 30 minutes to maintain an optimal chill.
  3. Anticipate 30 minutes of thawing per pound of turkey.
  • Special Considerations:
  1. The CDC recommends placing the turkey in a leakproof plastic bag in the sink during cold water thawing. This not only prevents the spread of turkey juices in the kitchen but also ensures the turkey doesn’t absorb excess water, which could impact its final texture.
  2. A turkey thawed in cold water must be promptly cooked after the thawing process.

Takeaway:

Regardless of the chosen method, Butterball emphasizes the cardinal rule – never thaw a turkey at room temperature. Both approaches have their merits, with refrigerator thawing being favored for its simplicity, albeit requiring more time. On the flip side, cold water thawing offers a quicker alternative but demands attentive water changes.

Additional Consideration:

For those grappling with time constraints, Butterball suggests exploring Fresh Whole Turkeys, a convenient option that promises equal delectability with minimal preparation.

Exploring Alternatives:

In the spirit of flexibility, for those contemplating alternatives to the traditional cooking route, a list of 13 Chicago restaurants offering Thanksgiving takeout dinners is thoughtfully provided.