The Pilgrims risked their lives in 1620 to cross a dangerous ocean for the right to say how they worshipped, where they worked, and what they wanted for dinner. If the thought of turkey this Thanksgiving is more gag than gobble, then it’s time to embrace that ancestral spirit of the risk-takers for a more adventurous menu.
A nicely prepared Beef Wellington with all the trimmings would be an honorable tip of the hat to the early Puritans’ English roots, although mushy peas are still an acquired taste. Instead, consider stirring the pot on the idea of fish and chips to create a spicy Gulf Coast gumbo with the catch of the day. Shrimp, oysters, and blue crabs, all now at their peak on the Texas coast, are great gumbo go-to’s. Be sure to add that cornbread you rescued away from the very tired stuffing recipe as the perfect side dish with a Cajun potato salad!
If the heart of your family’s celebration is the pie, make it a pizza pie! Create a buffet of favorite toppings from pepperoni to prosciutto, black olives to beet pesto and even pineapple and anchovies (because some people can’t accept that these don’t belong on pizza). Roll out the crust, shred some good cheese, and let everyone create their own perfect masterpiece. You never worry about what to do with the leftovers as they’ll be long gone by breakfast the next day. And, while the oven is preheated, go ahead and pop in a pumpkin pie. You do still need dessert!
While Plymouth Rock may be settling in for winter, it’s still grilling season in Texas. It's hard to beat a good brisket, smoked for hours, when college football is a big part of the day. A thick cut steak is always the right answer, and you can always make room on the grill and spatchcock that turkey for the traditionalist.
Whether your family’s heritage traces back to the Mayflower or not, celebrate those who came before with those you treasure most. Embrace your own history and traditions with a meal everyone will be thankful they showed up for: a Middle Eastern lamb tagine or Filipino lumpia, a pig roast or tamales. Would a Scottish haggis or Peking roast duck remind everyone of home? Thumb through your grandmother’s recipe box and recreate all her favorites, including the Jell-O mold with tangerines.
And remember, there’s also no shame if what you make best is reservations!