In the United States, the fourth Thursday of November is celebrated as Thanksgiving Day – a time for family gatherings, gratitude, and, of course, food. While the iconic roasted turkey usually takes center stage at the dinner table, the rich assortment of side dishes that accompany the bird are essential to creating the full, festive experience. In many ways, these sides are the unsung heroes of the holiday feast. Let’s take a deeper dive into the history, variety, and significance of Thanksgiving sides.
A Brief History
The first Thanksgiving feast in 1621 was shared between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag tribe, and it was a far cry from the contemporary tables laden with buttery mashed potatoes and green bean casserole. Historians believe that the first feast likely consisted of corn, venison, fowl, seafood, and beans. As the holiday evolved over the centuries, so too did the dishes served alongside the main course, reflecting the region, culture, and available ingredients of the times.
Popular Sides across the Nation
Different regions in the US have their own favored sides, deeply rooted in local traditions and available produce. Here’s a roundup of some of the most beloved side dishes:
1. Stuffing or Dressing: Perhaps the most ubiquitous of Thanksgiving sides, the stuffing (or dressing, as it’s called in the South when baked outside the bird) is a savory mix of bread cubes, herbs, celery, onions, and often a mix of meats or dried fruits.
2. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, fluffy, and buttery, mashed potatoes are a staple at most Thanksgiving tables. Many families have their own special twist – be it adding roasted garlic, cheese, or herbs.
3. Green Bean Casserole: Introduced to American households in the 1950s by the Campbell Soup Company, this dish combines green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and fried onions.
4. Cranberry Sauce: Whether you prefer the canned, jellied version or a homemade cranberry relish, this tangy side is essential to complement the richness of other dishes.
5. Sweet Potato Casserole: Often topped with marshmallows or a pecan crumble, this sweet and savory dish is a Southern favorite.
6. Mac and Cheese: Particularly popular in the Southern states, a creamy, baked macaroni and cheese dish often makes its way onto the Thanksgiving spread.
7. Cornbread: Another Southern favorite, cornbread can be served as a side or used in the stuffing.
8. Brussels Sprouts: Roasted, sautéed, or shredded into a salad, these mini cabbages have gained popularity in recent years.
Beyond Tradition: New Twists on Classic Sides
As the nation becomes more diverse, Thanksgiving tables reflect a beautiful melding of cultures. It’s not uncommon to find sides like tamales, pierogi, or curried dishes sharing space with the traditional roast turkey. Families are incorporating their own ethnic foods and culinary traditions, leading to an even richer celebration of gratitude and community.
Moreover, with the rise of dietary preferences and lifestyles like veganism, gluten-free, and keto, many households are introducing healthier or alternative versions of the classic sides. Cauliflower mash, for instance, has become a popular low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes.
The Significance of Side Dishes
While the turkey might be the centerpiece, it’s the side dishes that truly encapsulate the spirit of Thanksgiving. They tell a story of family traditions, regional peculiarities, and personal tastes. They represent the bounty of the harvest and the richness of shared meals. Each dish, with its unique flavors and textures, contributes to the symphony of tastes that is the Thanksgiving dinner.
Furthermore, the preparation of these dishes often becomes a communal activity. Families come together in the kitchen, passing down recipes, sharing the workload, and building memories. The act of cooking, as much as the act of eating, is central to the Thanksgiving celebration.
In the panorama of the Thanksgiving meal, it’s evident that while the turkey is important, it’s the myriad of side dishes that truly complete the festive spread. They hold the history, the traditions, and the evolving tastes of the American people. So, this Thanksgiving, as you pass the gravy, spare a thought (and perhaps an extra helping) for these wonderful sides that do so much to bring warmth and flavor to our tables.