Top 10 disaster solutions for Christmas dinner

★The turkey has defrosted quicker than expected Once thawed, a turkey can be kept for up to two days in the fridge. Place in a roasting tin, cover loosely with clingfilm and store below 4°C. ★The turkey won’t fit in the oven or in a roasting tin Cut the legs off, then cook the breast as a crown. Cook the drumsticks separately once the crown is ready. ★Can’t fit it all in the oven Cook sausages and stuffing balls after the turkey has come out. If you let the turkey ‘rest’ it makes it easier to carve. ★Can’t get the potatoes crispy Only open the oven when really necessary to avoid the temperature dropping. You can also brown spuds under the grill for a few minutes.

★Too much leftover turkey Freeze leftover cuts as soon as possible with a little gravy or stock to keep them moist.

★The gravy’s too runny If you’ve simmered it for too long, gravy thickened with cornflour can go runny again. Add more cornflour and simmer for a few more mins.

★ Forgot to steam the pud Don’t worry, Christmas pudding can be reheated in a microwave (but not for too long or it will dry out).

★Loads of vegetables left Puree them with any leftover gravy or some vegetable stock, to make a thick, hearty soup. ★Forgot to chill the wine Put some ice in a bucket, pop the bottles in and pour in some cold water. ★Dinner is ready, but my guests are late A turkey can stay warm for quite a while if wrapped well in foil. Remove the vegetables from the heat, drain and set aside, then boil or microwave them for a couple of minutes when your guests arrive.

Merry Christmas from the food team here at

Woman’s Weekly!