Sage

Fried sage works on two levels to make these carrots spectacular: First, the leaves' crisp texture offsets the carrots' tenderness, and second, the aromatic oil that remains in the skillet after frying infuses the vegetable with deep flavor.

The chicken needs to marinate for at least four hours (or overnight), so be sure to start in advance. What to drink: Crisp, full-bodied white wine like Chablis or unoaked Chardonnay from California.

We ran many jelly recipes in the 1940s, but this one impressed us the most. Sophisticated and subtle, it makes a light, delicious alternative not only to the shocking-green mint jelly that often accompanies lamb but even to gravy: Try it with any roasted or grilled meat. It's also an indispensable condiment for blue cheese.

If you aren't making the schmaltz manié ahead of time, there's no need to form the paste into balls. Simply add the paste by teaspoonfuls to the simmering stock until the gravy has reached the desired consistency.

For convenience, make the cornbread one day before preparing the stuffing.

Unlike most brined turkeys, this one can be stuffed because the apple-cider brine contains less salt than the typical recipe. Begin brining two days ahead.

Contrary to popular opinion, Thanksgiving turkey, when not butter-basted, can be a healthful centerpiece to the meal. It's a superb source of lean protein, B vitamins, magnesium, and potassium. To add flavor without adding fat, this recipe uses a garlic-herb rub and a small amount of grapeseed oil, which raises good cholesterol. Another calorie-saving trick: In the gravy, roasted garlic replaces most of the fat from the drippings.

Que delicioso! A Spanish makeover for this simple pudding creates an elegant dessert for any fiesta.

Flavored teas such as Meramieh are served mainly in the afternoon when friends come over to visit. The tea is presented on a tray, surrounded by small colored or clear delicate glasses or tiny cups and saucers. Sugar and spoons are placed on the tray for each guest to add as much sugar as he or she likes.

Unlike many stuffings, which are cooked inside the turkey and/or include chicken broth, this wild mushroom version is completely vegetarian. Packed with the robust essence of dried porcini, it will win the approval of everyone at the table.

Most chestnut soups are fairly substantial. We've made our version lighter and brothier to serve as a first course for a big meal. Chopped chestnuts mixed with tangy croutons add texture and extra layers of complexity.

The grapes and vinegar cook down into a sweet, complex sauce. What to drink: A deep, concentrated red. Try: Rosenblum Cellars 2003 Zinfandel, Richard Sauret Vineyards, Paso Robles ($20).

An inventive new take on a classic fall side. What to drink: A fruity red with a nice acidity. Try: Keenan 2002 Merlot, Carneros, Napa ($25).

These make a lovely breakfast or side dish.

While this calls for four herbs, just one or two—rosemary and thyme, for example—would be fine.

The classic apple and cheese combo gets a fun twist in this delicious dish. What to drink: Taz 2003 Chardonnay, Santa Barbara ($20).

The quality of the ricotta made near Florence inspired cooks there to create these dumplings. Seasonal leeks add their earthiness to the gnocchi, and bright green favas sautéed in butter with sage are the edible garnish.