With the first hint of fall (also known as the end of hurricane season here in Florida), I begin the ritual of rummaging through my stash of cookbooks in search of the perfect recipe to amaze and delight my family. And just like every year before that, I search bookmarks and narrow the choices to three or four interesting new dishes. But, come the big day, I end up right back to the “old” favorites!
Tried and true family recipes are a big part of this food centric holiday. Recipes are often passed along for generations, each cook making the recipe their own with little twists and tweaks. These meals artfully crafted and presented with pride to waiting and hungry guests and or family. Every table has a tale to tell.
In the last few years, Thanksgiving has gone through several versions and upgrades. Young adults who are out forging their way at college, work, and or other locations far from home have established new traditions and ways to celebrate. “Friendsgiving” is one of these gatherings, as are “family meals” shared at work, and tailgating feasts at sporting events.
When I had to work on the holiday, we would have a “Charlie Brown” Thanksgiving. Sometimes we even added jellybeans and popcorn to the “not really leftover” Turkey sandwiches. We’d buy some deli sliced turkey the day before and have our “leftover” meal before the real deal. It was a bit different but, my kids loved getting to watch holiday cartoons while eating jelly beans. The best part was that we shared with the people we loved!
Wherever or whenever you are celebrating Thanksgiving, sharing time and food with our friends, peers or family is the beginning of the many winter celebrations and holidays.
This Thanksgiving promises to be a challenge for folks all over the USA. COVID-19 has tossed a cog in the well oiled traditions of Thanksgiving. People are dealing with social distancing, masking up, being particular about hand washing and sanitizing! Some folks are isolated due to illness or self quarantine… or even the sadness of an empty chair at the table. I pray you all stay well and safe, and that you are able to celebrate in a meaningful way.
This Thanksgiving will be a nod to the historical significance of the holiday. People are struggling in many different ways from dealing with food insecurity, the loss of loved ones, to unemployment and illness, just to name a few. Like our forefathers we are having to dig deep and find resilience in ways we never imagined.
This year, due to the pandemic, my kids are all here to celebrate. For me, being together with all my kids is a blessing. Having worked in the food industry for so many years, holidays and special occasions were times I had to work the hardest. I missed out on much time with my kids while they were younger.
This year, I’ve tried to view the time in COVID “lock down” as reclaiming some of what was lost during the busiest years.. Of course it’s not exactly the same, but in these uncertain times we are grateful of any tiny ray of sunshine that appears through the dark clouds.
This week, I began my recipe ritual. Deep inside I know my shopping list will be familiar… regardless of what I had originally planned! In this time of chaos and uncertainty, there is comfort in predictability. Turkey, homemade cranberry sauce, Stuffing and dressing (to satisfy those from each starch camp), and green bean casserole because there would likely be mutiny if this were left out! Then, to top it off, pumpkin pie. I’m full just thinking about it!!
What are your favorite dishes? Do you make turkey? Seafood? Ham? Roast beef? I’d love to hear about your traditions! (Comments can be made below).