Thanksgiving Sides & Sauces

Classic Side Dishes: A Nostalgic Journey

Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without certain traditional sides that have graced tables for generations. These dishes evoke a sense of nostalgia and comfort, reminding us of shared meals with loved ones.

• Stuffing/Dressing: This savory dish, often made with bread, vegetables, herbs, and sometimes sausage or other meats, is a staple on most Thanksgiving tables. Whether cooked inside the turkey or separately as a dressing, it’s a flavorful and satisfying addition.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a crowd-pleaser, offering a comforting and versatile base for gravy or other toppings.
• Cranberry Sauce: The sweet and tart flavor of cranberry sauce provides a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of other dishes. While the canned variety has its fans, homemade cranberry sauce with fresh cranberries, orange zest, and spices offers a burst of flavor.
• Green Bean Casserole: This classic dish, featuring green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions, is a Thanksgiving icon, albeit sometimes a subject of playful debate.
• Sweet Potato Casserole: Often topped with marshmallows or a pecan crumble, sweet potato casserole delivers a delightful balance of sweetness and richness.

The Importance of Sauces

Sauces play a crucial role in Thanksgiving meals, adding moisture, richness, and depth of flavor to the dishes.

• Gravy: Arguably the most important sauce on the table, gravy is typically made from turkey drippings, flour, and seasonings. It adds a savory richness to the turkey, mashed potatoes, and stuffing.
• Cranberry Sauce: As mentioned earlier, cranberry sauce provides a bright counterpoint to the savory flavors. It pairs beautifully with turkey, stuffing, and even cheese plates.