Turkey does have the effect of making people sleepy due to the tryptophan it contains. This compound has the effect of making people sleepy, so it is probably not wise to drive a long distance after eating a turkey dinner or eating a turkey sandwich. Parents can use this to their advantage before going out for the evening. Feed the kids lots of turkey before going out and the babysitter will appreciate how well behaved your children were because they went to bed early.

Before we get to the recipes however, I would like to share a picture of a very large salmon that I caught last weekend in the Feather River in Northern California. I estimated its weight to be around 40 pounds, the largest I have caught to date. I cooked it using my recipe for smoked salmon and several who tried it claimed it was the best fish they had ever eaten! I had to agree. This fish was not in prime condition having a condition of fungus and fin rot common to salmon in fresh water, yet the meat was of very good quality. It took about half an hour to land this animal, and even after a formidable fight this fish had enough energy left to bite my fingers and draw a bit of blood. A fair exchange, I would say.

The recipes presented this month are from my yet to be published cookbook, Phil's Family and Friends Cookbook. Feel free to email me at with your comments and requests. Be well, and good eating!

Now, on to the recipes!

• Honey Turkey
• The Gravy
• Rich and Creamy Mashed Potatoes