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Chefs Anastassia Batsoula and Mike Deuel, with their one-year-old sous-chef Mila, share their low-and-slow Thanksgiving tradition in this month’s Chefs’ Choir(SM). Their slow-roasted turkey with apples, citrus, and root vegetables pairs beautifully with a Russian-inspired beet and walnut salad — a heartfelt celebration of family, flavor, and the joy of cooking together.

As the holiday season approaches, our kitchen fills with the smells of roasting vegetables, citrus, and herbs — and the happy clatter of our one-year-old, Mila, “helping” from her high chair. Thanksgiving looks a little different these days, but the heart of it remains the same: taking time to slow down, share food, and make memories around the table.

Professionally, we’ve always loved the ingredients that mark this season — earthy root vegetables, crisp apples, sweet squash, and tart cranberries. At home, we reach for the same palette but with more simplicity and warmth. The key to both is balance: rich and savory, sweet and bright, rustic and refined.

And when it comes to the centerpiece — the turkey — our best secret is no secret at all: cook it low and slow. Forget the frantic basting and high-heat rush. A gentle roast allows the bird to stay moist, lets the flavors of fruits and vegetables infuse the meat, and fills your home with that comforting Thanksgiving aroma all day long.

Recipe: Slow-Roasted Turkey with Apples, Citrus & Root Vegetables

by Chefs Anastassia Batsoula-Deuel and Mike Deuel

Serves 8-10

Prep Time: 30 minutes

Cook Time: 5-6 hours (plus resting)

Ingredients

  • 1 whole turkey (12–14 lbs), patted dry
  • Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper
  • 4 tablespoons butter, softened
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 apples, quartered
  • 1 orange, quartered
  • 1 bulb fennel, sliced thick
  • 3 carrots, cut into large pieces
  • 3 parsnips, cut into large pieces
  • 1 large onion, quartered
  • 6 garlic cloves, smashed
  • 4 sprigs fresh thyme
  • 2 sprigs rosemary
  • 1 cup chicken or turkey stock

Procedure

  1. Preheat your oven to 275°F.
  2. Season the turkey generously inside and out with salt and pepper. Rub the skin with butter and olive oil.
  3. Create the bed: In a large roasting pan, layer apples, orange, fennel, carrots, parsnips, onion, garlic, and herbs. Pour in the stock.
  4. Place the turkey on top of the vegetables, breast side up.
  5. Roast uncovered for about 20 minutes per pound, until the internal temperature reaches 160°F in the breast and 170°F in the thigh.
  6. Rest the bird for at least 30–45 minutes before carving. The temperature will continue to rise slightly as it rests.

The result: tender, juicy meat with subtle sweetness from the fruit and deep flavor from the caramelized vegetables — plus an effortless pan gravy from the drippings.

Bonus Recipe: Russian-Inspired Beet & Walnut Salad (Свекольный Салат с Орехами)

Every family has a heritage dish that finds its way onto the table, no matter the holiday. For us, a nod to Russian cuisine connects generations — a bright, earthy salad that brings color and contrast to the Thanksgiving spread.

Ingredients

  • 3 medium beets, roasted or boiled until tender
  • ½ cup walnuts, lightly toasted and chopped
  • 1 small garlic clove, finely grated
  • 2 tbsp mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
  • 1 tbsp sour cream
  • 1 tsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh dill or parsley for garnish

Procedure

  1. Peel and grate the cooked beets once cooled.
  2. In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, garlic, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
  3. Fold in the grated beets and chopped walnuts.
  4. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. Garnish with dill or parsley.

It’s vibrant, slightly sweet, and earthy — a refreshing balance next to the richness of turkey and stuffing. Mila loves the color (and occasionally the mess), and it’s a perfect way to add a touch of Russian comfort to a very American feast.

Our Thanksgiving table is a mix of tradition and invention — a slow-roasted turkey beside a Russian beet salad, a giggling toddler beside two tired but happy chefs. The food tells the story of where we’ve been, who we love, and how we grow together — one slow-cooked bite at a time.

More Recipes by Chefs Anastassia Batsoula-Deuel and Mike Deuel

This past October 18–20, 2025, Great Performances once again joined Open House New York Weekend, the city-wide festival that invites the public to explore New York’s most fascinating spaces. Now in our second year of participating, we were thrilled to open our South Bronx home and offer a behind-the-scenes look at how we unleash joy through genuine hospitality.

Open House New York (OHNY) is an organization close to Liz Neumark’s heart — as a native New Yorker, entrepreneur, and advocate for civic engagement, she deeply values OHNY’s mission to foster openness, accessibility, and pride in our city. For our team, it’s a meaningful opportunity to welcome our community into the kitchens, offices, and creative spaces where so much of the Great Performances magic begins.

Last weekend, Great Performances once again had the great honor of participating in Open House New York. We welcomed 75 lucky guests into our home in the South Bronx, giving them a behind-the-scenes look at where so much of the magic happens.

The tour wound its way through all three floors of our commissary — from our bustling kitchens to our walk-ins and offices — each space offering a glimpse into the heart of what we do every day. Along the way, guests had plenty of questions, and our team was ready with answers! Some were fun (“How much sugar does the pastry kitchen go through?” — over 150 pounds per day!), while others were more reflective (“How many guests have you served since opening?” — more than 10 million and counting).

Before heading off to their next Open House New York stop, visitors were treated to one of our freshly baked chocolate chip cookies — a small taste of Great Performances to take on the road.

Participating in Open House New York is always such a joy. Each year, we’re reminded how meaningful it is to open our doors and share the energy, creativity, and care that fuel our work behind the curtain. It’s not just a tour; it’s a chance to connect with our community, celebrate craftsmanship, and show the dedication that goes into every event we create.

If you’d like to experience Great Performances firsthand, we encourage you to sign up for the Open House New York newsletter and keep an eye out next September for a full list of participating sites. It’s one of the city’s most inspiring weekends — a celebration of openness, accessibility, and civic pride in the place we’re so proud to call home.

Open House New York is more than a weekend of tours — it’s a celebration of the people, places, and ideas that shape the city we love. Through programs like these, OHNY builds bridges between communities and inspires a deeper appreciation for New York’s vibrant cultural and creative landscape.

To learn more or support OHNY’s mission, visit ohny.org — where you can become a member, volunteer, or donate to help keep New York open, accessible, and inspiring for all.

Explore what’s happening this month across the Bronx—from outdoor concerts and art festivals to family paddles and open mics. Scroll by venue to find your favorite neighborhood spots or discover somewhere new.

Hip-Hop Turkey Trot 2025

Date: Thu, Nov 27, 2025 • 9:00 AM

Location: Soundview Park, Bronx, NY

Description: 5K Thanksgiving run celebrating the Bronx’s hip-hop roots with a course through Soundview Park on the Bronx River Greenway.


Step to the Next Dimension (Shiro Solo Exhibition)

Date: Oct 25 – Nov 21, 2025

Location: WALLWORKS NEW YORK, 710 Tiffany St, Bronx, NY 10474

Description: International graffiti artist SHIRO-1 returns with vibrant characters and works tied to her new visual book Party Planet.


First Friday at The Bronx Museum

Date: Fri, Nov 7, 2025 • 6:00–9:00 PM

Location: The Bronx Museum of the Arts

Description: Free after-hours art and music with DJ BlkShine & HeadCount; all ages welcome (RSVP optional).


Bronx Green-Up's Pumpkin Smash 2025

Date: Wed, Nov 5, 2025 • 3:30–5:30 PM

Location: Lehman College Quad, 250 Bedford Park Blvd W, Bronx, NY 10468

Description: Give your pumpkins a second life—smash and compost them for local parks and community gardens.


The Pelham Bay Super Hike

Date: Sat, Nov 22, 2025 • 11:00 AM

Location: Pelham Bay Park

Description: Urban Park Rangers lead a long trek through forests and coastal habitats; registration opens Nov 10.


Community Paddle at Concrete Plant Park

Date: Sat, Nov 1, 2025 • 11:00 AM–3:00 PM

Location: Concrete Plant Park, 1370 Westchester Ave, Bronx, NY

Description: Free first-come paddling with waves every hour; brief safety orientation provided. Family-friendly.


Bronx Brewery Trivia Night

Date: Thu, Nov 13, 2025 • 7:00–9:00 PM

Location: The Bronx Brewery – South Bronx, 856 E 136th St, Bronx, NY 10454

Description: Weekly Thursday trivia—grab a team, a pint, and bragging rights. (Check venue calendar for any schedule changes.)


THE THREE KINGS & THEIR QUEENS

Date: Sat, Nov 8, 2025 • 8:00 PM

Location: Lehman Center for the Performing Arts

Description: A high-energy celebration from producer David Maldonado—classic hits and powerhouse performances.


Foliage Frolic Weekend

Date: Sat–Sun, Nov 8–9, 2025

Location: Wave Hill

Description: Peak-color weekend with themed walks, crafts, and kid-friendly activities across the gardens.


Jose Alberto “El Canario” Concert

Date: Sat, Nov 22, 2025 • 5:00 PM

Location: Lehman Center for the Performing Arts

Description: “Los 50 de El Canario” — a 50th-anniversary salsa celebration from the multi-Grammy winner.


Beeswax Candle Making

Date: Sat–Sun, Nov 8–9, 2025 • 12:00–4:00 PM

Location: Wave Hill, Mark Twain Room

Description: Drop-in workshop to roll and decorate autumn-themed beeswax candles; space is limited.

Thanksgiving week in New York City is filled with festive fun, cultural gems, and cozy experiences for every mood and age group. Whether you’re hosting family or exploring the city with visiting friends, there’s something for everyone — from art and live music to design, mindfulness, and nature walks. Here’s your guide to some of the best ways to celebrate gratitude, creativity, and connection this Thanksgiving week.

Brooklyn Museum

A cornerstone of New York’s cultural scene, the Brooklyn Museum offers art, history, and storytelling across eras and mediums. This Thanksgiving week, explore inspiring exhibitions, join guided gallery tours, or enjoy a special film screening celebrating creativity and cultural identity.

Featured Events & Exhibits:

  • Gallery Tours: A Few of Our Favorite Things

    • 📅 November 22–23, 26, 28–30 | 1–2pm

    • View details

    • Take a guided look at beloved works from the museum’s collection — perfect for first-time visitors or longtime fans.

  • Beyond Keita’s Frame: Finye (The Wind)

    • 📅 November 23 | 2–4pm

    • Film info

    • A moving film celebrating creativity and cultural identity, expanding on the themes in Seydou Keïta: A Tactile Lens.

  • Monet and Venice — Exhibit info
    Step into the shimmering world of Claude Monet and experience his luminous depictions of Venice.

  • Breaking the Mold: Brooklyn Museum at 200 — Exhibit info
    A celebratory exhibition highlighting two centuries of creativity, innovation, and artistic dialogue.

  • Rubin Museum Tibetan Buddhist Shrine Room — Exhibit info
    A serene, contemplative space offering a moment of calm amid the holiday rush.

These are just a few highlights from the museum’s extensive lineup this season — visit the Brooklyn Museum website to explore the full schedule of exhibitions, films, and tours.

Dizzy’s Club at Jazz at Lincoln Center

For a soulful evening in the city, head to Dizzy’s Club, where the energy of live jazz sets the tone for celebration. From legendary performers to rising stars, it’s the perfect place to unwind after a day of Thanksgiving festivities.

Performances:

  • Mary Stallings Featuring The Aaron Goldberg Trio — Tickets
    Jazz royalty brings timeless standards and soulful vocals.

  • Future of Jazz Orchestra — Tickets
    Discover tomorrow’s greats in this vibrant showcase of young talent.

  • David Amram 95th Birthday Celebration — Tickets
    Celebrate a music legend in a night of tributes and collaboration.

  • Herlin Riley and Friends — Tickets | More dates
    New Orleans rhythm meets New York swing — pure joy on stage.

  • Tammy McCain: Merry Christmas Baby — Tickets
    A jazzy, heartfelt kickoff to the holiday season.

Poster House

At Poster House, design lovers will find fascinating insights into art, propaganda, and visual storytelling. Thanksgiving week features accessible, in-depth tours of one of their most powerful exhibitions — available both in-person and virtually.

Events:

  • In-Person Vibrant Verbal Description Tour: The Changing Face of Fascist Italy — Event info
    An inclusive, guided exploration of how design reflected and shaped history.

  • Virtual Vibrant Verbal Description Tour: The Changing Face of Fascist Italy — Event info
    Join the conversation online from the comfort of home.

Wave Hill

Nestled in the Bronx overlooking the Hudson, Wave Hill offers nature, art, and mindfulness in perfect harmony. This Thanksgiving week, the gardens come alive with gratitude-themed activities and creative family fun.

Events:

  • Family Art Project: Tiny Terrariums — Saturday session | Sunday session
    Create miniature worlds inspired by nature’s beauty.

  • Tree as Medium: Ursula Endlicher, sTo Len, Sam Van Aken — Event info
    A multidisciplinary exploration of trees as creative collaborators.

  • Gratitude Weekend — Event info
    Reflect on the season with workshops, walks, and wellness activities.

  • Gratitude Sound Meditation — Event info
    A restorative sound experience to center the spirit.

  • Family Art Project: Grateful for Trees — Event info
    Craft nature-inspired art celebrating gratitude and growth.

  • Garden Highlights Walk — Event info
    Guided tours of seasonal plantings and scenic views.

Keep Exploring

Whether you’re in the mood for world-class art, live jazz, or peaceful garden walks, New York City offers endless ways to celebrate Thanksgiving week with meaning and joy. Explore, connect, and make memories with the people who matter most.

Exciting Events Around New York – November 2025

As autumn deepens and the air turns crisp, Great Performances continues to celebrate the rich cultural landscape of New York City. From inspiring concerts and art exhibitions to family-friendly performances and intimate dinners, our partner venues offer countless ways to embrace the beauty of November. As the exclusive caterer for many of these institutions, we’re proud to share some of the events that remind us why this season—and this city—are so special.

Apollo Theater

  • Apollo Comedy Club – November 6, 2025
    Enjoy an evening of laughter at the Apollo’s signature stand-up series featuring emerging and established comedians in an intimate setting.
  • Hang Time
    Join host Bob Sumner for a night of conversation, music, and storytelling celebrating the Apollo’s deep cultural roots.

Asia Society

  • Mahsa and Marjan Vahdat in Concert: Deep Roots, Fresh Leaves
    Experience the enchanting harmonies of Iranian sisters Mahsa and Marjan Vahdat as they blend Persian classical traditions with contemporary sounds in a moving performance about defiance, hope, and sisterhood. (See also: Music Workshop with Mahsa and Marjan Vahdat: Songs of Defiance, Hope and Sisterhood the day before.)
  • Elena Moon Park and Friends: Rabbit Days and Dumplings
    Beloved children’s musician Elena Moon Park returns with a joyful celebration of folk songs from East and Southeast Asia. Families can extend the experience with the Rhythm and Song Making with Elena Moon Park workshop the previous day.

BAM (Brooklyn Academy of Music)

  • Sing for Hope Family Jam
    A lively, interactive concert where families can sing and dance together, celebrating music’s power to connect and uplift communities.
  • Best of BAMkids Film Festival: Ages 6–8
    Enjoy a curated selection of short films from around the world designed to spark imagination and laughter in young audiences.
  • FOR REAL
    An inventive stage performance that blends theater, movement, and storytelling to explore authenticity and the search for truth in modern life.

Brooklyn Museum

Caramoor

  • Christie Dashiell presented in collaboration with Jazz at Lincoln Center
    A mesmerizing evening of jazz vocals as Christie Dashiell brings her soulful sound to Caramoor in a performance co-presented with Jazz at Lincoln Center.
  • Poiesis Quartet
    The award-winning string quartet performs an exquisite program that bridges classical repertoire with bold, contemporary works.
  • The Arcadian Wild
    Blending bluegrass, folk, and chamber music, this Nashville-based trio delivers intricate harmonies and heartfelt storytelling in an intimate concert setting.
  • Rosanne Cash Benefit Concert
    Legendary singer-songwriter Rosanne Cash takes the stage for a special benefit performance supporting Caramoor’s music and education programs.

Jazz at Lincoln Center

  • Cyro Baptista at 75: A Banquet for the Spirits
    Celebrate Brazilian percussionist Cyro Baptista’s 75th birthday with an exuberant performance blending jazz, world rhythms, and improvisation.
  • Steve Miller
    Rock icon Steve Miller joins Jazz at Lincoln Center for a unique concert fusing blues, rock, and jazz influences in a rare live appearance.
  • Journey Through Jazz: The Mighty Negro Spirituals
    The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis explores the deep roots and enduring influence of the spiritual in jazz and American music.

Poster House

Wave Hill

  • Fall Terrace Party
    Celebrate the season surrounded by autumn color at Wave Hill’s annual fall gathering featuring live music, cocktails, and scenic views of the Hudson River.
  • Fiery Fall Sunset Yoga
    Unwind and reconnect with nature during an outdoor yoga session timed perfectly with the vivid colors of sunset over the Palisades.

From soulful concerts and interactive family jams to art tours and culinary pop-ups, November at our partner venues offers something for everyone. Great Performances is honored to collaborate with these institutions to make every event—and every season—an experience to savor.