19+ Thanksgiving Traditional Recipe You Won't Believe The Taste!
Published on: Mar 4, 2024
Thanksgiving is a time for expressing gratitude and coming together with loved ones to enjoy a delicious meal. One of the most anticipated parts of this holiday is the traditional Thanksgiving meal, filled with comforting and familiar dishes. While there are many variations of recipes, turkey is undoubtedly the star of the show. This Thanksgiving traditional recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own special touches. In this article, we will explore the history and components of this beloved dish, and provide a step-by-step guide on how to prepare it for your own Thanksgiving feast.
Main Ingredients: Apple Cider, Sugar, Clove, Cinnamon Sticks, Allspice
Impress your guests this Thanksgiving with a festive and flavorful Thanksgiving Cider Sangria. This refreshing drink combines the flavors of apple cider, cranberry juice, and a hint of cinnamon and cloves for the perfect fall-inspired cocktail. Serve it in a large pitcher or punch bowl for easy sharing and enjoy all the warm and cozy flavors of the season.
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Thanksgiving Stuffing
Main Ingredients: Sourdough Loaf, Cornbread, Butter, Large Onion, Celery
No Thanksgiving meal is complete without a delicious stuffing. This classic Thanksgiving side dish is a crowd-pleaser and can be made with a variety of ingredients to suit any taste. Whether you prefer a traditional bread stuffing or a more unique cornbread or sausage stuffing, this dish is sure to be a hit at your holiday table.
The star of the Thanksgiving show, the roasted turkey is a must-have for any Thanksgiving feast. Whether you opt for a traditional roasted turkey or a more modern twist like a deep-fried or smoked turkey, this main dish is sure to be the centerpiece of your meal. Don't forget to brine your turkey for maximum flavor and juiciness.
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Thanksgiving Sides
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Eggs, Whole Milk, Grated Nutmeg, Ground
While the turkey may be the star, the sides are what truly make a Thanksgiving meal memorable. From creamy mashed potatoes to honey glazed carrots, there are endless options for delicious and creative Thanksgiving side dishes. Don't be afraid to add some new and unique flavors to your sides this year.
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Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce
Main Ingredients: Cranberries, Cranberry Juice, Maple Syrup, Orange Juice
No matter how you feel about cranberry sauce, it's a staple on every Thanksgiving table. Whether you prefer a homemade sauce or a canned version, this tart and sweet condiment is the perfect accompaniment to your Thanksgiving meal. Serve it warm or chilled and let the flavors of the cranberries shine.
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Classic Traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, French Bread, Vidalia Onion, Celery
For a taste of nostalgia, stick with a classic traditional Thanksgiving stuffing. Made with bread, herbs, and spices, this dish is a staple on every holiday table. Add in some crumbled bacon or sausage for an extra burst of flavor.
There's nothing quite like a heaping mound of mashed potatoes on your Thanksgiving plate. Creamy, buttery, and oh-so-comforting, these mashed potatoes are a must-have. Add in some garlic or herbs for an extra kick of flavor.
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OREO Cookie Balls - Thanksgiving Turkey
Main Ingredients: Oreo Cookies, Cream Cheese, Semi Sweet Baking
For a fun and festive dessert, try making OREO Cookie Balls in the shape of turkeys. These bite-sized treats are made with crushed OREO cookies, cream cheese, and dipped in chocolate. Add some candy corn for the feathers and you have a sweet and adorable Thanksgiving dessert.
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Thanksgiving Punch
Main Ingredients: Apple Cider, Caramel Syrup, Pumpkin Pie Spice, Cinnamon
If you're looking for a delicious and alcohol-free option for your Thanksgiving drinks, try making a Thanksgiving punch. This fizzy and flavorful drink combines cranberry juice, orange juice, and ginger ale for a refreshing and festive beverage.
Switch up your traditional coleslaw for a Thanksgiving-inspired version. Made with shredded Brussels sprouts, cranberries, and maple syrup, this slaw is a tasty and healthy addition to your holiday meal. Serve it as a side dish or top your turkey sandwich with it for a tasty leftover meal.
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Thanksgiving Sangria
Main Ingredients: Honey, Water, Apple Pie Spice, Pinot Grigio, Apple
For a more adult version of Thanksgiving punch, try making a Thanksgiving sangria. This fruity and flavorful drink combines red wine, apple cider, and a splash of brandy for a delicious and festive cocktail. Serve it over ice and garnish with apple slices for a beautiful presentation.
For a unique twist on traditional Thanksgiving leftovers, try making Thanksgiving croquettes. These crispy and flavorful bites are made with mashed potatoes, turkey, and stuffing, and are fried to perfection. Serve them with a side of cranberry sauce for dipping and enjoy a whole new way to enjoy your Thanksgiving leftovers.
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Pumpkin Crunch – The Perfect Thanksgiving Dessert
Main Ingredients: Pumpkin Puree, Evaporated Milk, Granulated Sugar, Large
For a tasty and easy-to-make Thanksgiving dessert, give pumpkin crunch a try. This dessert is made with layers of pumpkin puree, cake mix, and butter, and is baked to perfection. Top it off with some whipped cream and cinnamon for a decadent and delicious treat.
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Thanksgiving Pockets
Main Ingredients: Roasted Turkey, Buttermilk Biscuits, Mashed Potatoes
For a portable and make-ahead Thanksgiving meal, try making Thanksgiving pockets. These flaky and savory pockets are filled with all your favorite Thanksgiving ingredients, from turkey to gravy to cranberry sauce. They make for a delicious and easy meal for those busy holiday days.
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Multi-Cooker Thanksgiving Stuffing
Main Ingredients: Low Sodium Chicken Broth, Large Eggs, Salt, Pepper
If you're short on oven space, try making your Thanksgiving stuffing in a multi-cooker. This handy appliance allows you to cook your stuffing while your turkey is in the oven, freeing up valuable oven space. Plus, the multi-cooker gives your stuffing a crispy and flavorful crust that is sure to be a hit.
For a tasty and comforting way to use up your Thanksgiving leftovers, try making a leftover turkey pot pie. This hearty and flavorful dish is made with a flaky pie crust, leftover turkey, vegetables, and a creamy gravy. It's the perfect way to enjoy your Thanksgiving leftovers in a whole new way.
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Thanksgiving Meatless Loaf
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potato, Onion, Celery, Medium Carrot, Garlic
For a vegetarian option at your Thanksgiving table, try making a Thanksgiving meatless loaf. Made with lentils, quinoa, and vegetables, this loaf is packed with protein and flavor. Serve it with your favorite Thanksgiving sides for a delicious and hearty meal.
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The Ultimate Thanksgiving Turkey Brine
Main Ingredients: Ice Water, Tap Water, Dark Brown Sugar, Kosher Salt
For a juicy and flavorful turkey, it's all about the brine. Give your Thanksgiving turkey the ultimate flavor boost by brining it overnight. This simple mixture of salt, sugar, and herbs will infuse your turkey with all the flavors of Thanksgiving and ensure a moist and delicious bird.
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Bacon and Cheese Brussels Sprouts Casserole + My...
Main Ingredients: Brussels Sprouts, Olive Oil, Salt, Ground Pepper
For a decadent and indulgent Thanksgiving side dish, try making a bacon and cheese Brussels sprouts casserole. This dish combines the flavors of bacon, cheese, and Brussels sprouts for a creamy and delicious casserole that is sure to be a hit. Plus, it's a great way to get picky eaters to enjoy their vegetables.
For a warm and comforting drink to enjoy on a chilly Thanksgiving evening, try making a batch of Thanksgiving cider. This cozy beverage combines apple cider, fall spices, and a splash of bourbon for a delicious and comforting drink that will warm you up from the inside out.
The History of Thanksgiving Turkey
Native American Influence
Native Americans were the first to introduce turkey to European settlers in the 1600s. The bird was a staple in their diet and was often used in celebratory feasts. When the Pilgrims arrived in America, they were introduced to this new and exotic bird, which soon became a symbol of the Thanksgiving feast.
Traditional Preparation
The traditional way of preparing a Thanksgiving turkey involves brining the bird in a saltwater solution overnight to ensure it stays moist and flavorful. It is then stuffed with a flavorful mixture of herbs, spices, and vegetables, such as sage, thyme, onion, and celery . This adds depth of flavor to the meat and creates a deliciously moist stuffing.
Modern Twists
While the traditional preparation method remains a favorite, many families have put their own spin on the classic recipe. Some opt for a deep-fried turkey, which results in a crispy and succulent bird. Others prefer to smoke their turkey, infusing it with a smoky flavor that pairs well with the traditional Thanksgiving sides.
Preparing Your Thanksgiving Turkey
Now that we have explored the history of the Thanksgiving turkey, let's dive into how to prepare it for your own feast.
Ingredients:
- 12-14 lb whole turkey
- 1 cup kosher salt
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1 gallon water
- 4 sprigs of fresh sage
- 4 sprigs of fresh thyme
- 1 onion, quartered
- 2 celery stalks, halved
- 1 stick of butter, softened
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
1. Begin by preparing the brine for the turkey. In a large pot, combine the water, kosher salt, and brown sugar. Stir until the salt and sugar have dissolved.
2. Place the turkey in a large container, breast side down. Pour the brine over the turkey, making sure it is completely submerged. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
3. Preheat your oven to 350 degrees F.
4. Remove the turkey from the brine and pat it dry with paper towels. Discard the brine.
5. In a small bowl, mix together the softened butter, chopped sage, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Gently separate the skin from the turkey breast by using your fingers. Spread the herb butter mixture under the skin.
7. Stuff the turkey with the onion, celery, and remaining herbs.
8. Tie the turkey legs together with kitchen twine and tuck the wings under the body.
9. Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a roasting pan. Roast for 2.5-3 hours, or until the internal temperature of the turkey reaches 165 degrees F.
10. Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving and serving.
In Conclusion
The Thanksgiving turkey is more than just a dish, it is a symbol of gratitude, family, and tradition. With this step-by-step guide, you can create your own delicious and memorable Thanksgiving meal that will be cherished for years to come. Take the time to savor each bite and give thanks for the abundance in your life. Happy Thanksgiving!