As you may or may not have noticed, I have no problem cutting corners when it seems appropriate. My time is valuable, and as much as I love food, I love my down time even more.
Therefore, on days where I'll be preparing massive amounts of food (i.e. Thanksgiving or Christmas Eve), I admit to taking a shortcut or two, especially if it saves me money. Hell, I'll even admit to liking Stove-Top more than homemade dressing.The one thing I refuse to do the easy way on days like that, regardless of time or cost, is nutmeg. I love freshly grated nutmeg. The pre-grated stuff from the store is fine, but for big meals, I grate my own. Always.
What is your one thing you refuse to do without on big-meal holidays?
