Photo by James Merrell
Given recent events in American politics, and the inevitable outpourings that have followed, now feels a fitting time to honour a holiday that encompasses everyone in America, regardless of culture, religion or beliefs. The 24th November will no doubt see families coming together in the face of differing views and opinions, so it is worth reminding ourselves that this holiday's sole and pure purpose is to celebrate the act of being together with loved ones, being thankful for what we have, and feasting.
So let’s talk food. First up, the bird of the day; The Turkey. I’ve talked at length about my Spiced and Superjuicy Brined Turkey, and while I would never dream of stopping you from making that, may I draw your attention to a Turkey Breast Stuffed with Italian Sausage and Marsala-Steeped Cranberries? For me, gravy alongside is non-negotiable - and here I commend my Allspice Gravy to you. For (but by no means limited to) vegetarians, I’d suggest my Roast Stuffed Pumpkin with Gingery Tomato Sauce - with its jewelled rice, it makes for a fabulous centrepiece.
Moving on to sides: it wouldn’t be Thanksgiving without Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallows - with just enough lime to offset the sweetness, they won over even my sceptical European self. As an alternative to regular mash, I suggest my Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes; they really do make your cooking life much easier on the day. Panettone Stuffing Squares gladly do double-duty, working either as a side to the main meal, or as savoury nibbles to go alongside a pre-dinner drink.
Now for the sweet stuff. I know that pumpkin pie is traditional, but I take the radical step of making a Pumpkin Cheesecake instead, and of course there is my Pecan-Plus Pie. But, having said that, my Holiday Hot Cake with Eggnog Cream can be rustled up in a matter of minutes - and, with its seasonal spice, is the edible equivalent of a warm embrace.
All that’s left is for me to wish you a very happy Thanksgiving.
