Thanksgiving fundamentals with Andrew "Kappy" Kaplan from Rachael Ray/Watch Entertainment.

I was lucky to meet Andrew “Kappy” Kaplan, in the process of fulfilling a lifelong dream of doing some recipes for the Rachael Ray Show. Kappy is technically Rachael’s Vice President of Culinary Operations and co-founder and Director of Yum-o!, but he’s basically Rachael’s right hand man in all things culinary production, and philanthropy. Kappy is also host and creator of the fantastic Beyond the Plate podcast where he interviews the most well-loved chefs in the food business about their culinary journeys and the ways they give back. He’s also a producer on Rachael’s new podcast, I’ll Sleep When I’m Dead where she interviews chefs and celebrities about drive, resilience, and how we face life’s challenges.

The list goes on, but this man has a hand in so many cool culinary projects I can’t name them all here. While his resume makes for some long show notes, it also makes him the perfect guest for today’s discussion on all thing Thanksgiving, and I’m grateful we were able to find time to chat!

In today’s episode, Kappy and I discuss all of our favorite Thanksgiving recipes and techniques, and answer some listener questions. Below are links to some of the recipes discussed on the show. I hope this episode of Talking to Smart People is helpful and makes you hungry for Turkey Day.

And if you have more questions? Send me a DM here on Substack or at catherinesmart_ on Instagram.

Happy Thanksgiving everybody!

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RECIPE LINKS:

This crunchy topping from Samin Nosrat that Catherine is obsessed with.

The sous vide turkey breast Kappy is making this year

The low and slow dark meat Kappy is making this year

Rachael Ray’s Negroni Cranberry Sauce

Rachael Ray’s apple, celery and onion stuffing

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit smartcooks.substack.com