Innovative Thanksgiving 2020: Nontraditional Entrees and Traditional Touches

Thanksgiving is a cherished holiday, but every year, families introduce new traditions and nontraditional entrees to make the celebration unique. This year, two families are embracing the spirit of innovation, introducing dishes that add a fresh twist to the classic Thanksgiving menu.

Our Family's "Crabby" Thanksgiving

My family is going with a classic seafood spin on a traditional dish. For 2020, we are serving crab cakes and king crab legs, accompanied by homemade creamed corn and air-fried potato wedges. The contrast between the delicate crab and crispy potatoes is sure to provide a memorable taste experience. For dessert, a homemade apple pie and mincemeat with real whipping cream will round off the feast. No recipes here—it’s all based on what I’ve found works best for my family.

A Frozen Chicken's Thanksgiving

My partner and I have a more traditional approach this year, with a frozen chicken taking the spotlight. Named Wilbur, our chicken is a long-term freezer staple, and the timing fits perfectly with our upcoming trip to Texas. The menu will feature mashed potatoes, a green bean casserole, and stuffing with a homemade gravy. Despite the slight deviation from the usual, the feast will still hold a special place in my heart, reminiscent of the grand gatherings of the past, usually catering to 23 people since 1968.

A Cajun Twist on Thanksgiving

This year, my family is experimenting with a nontraditional gluten-free turkey meatball meal, paired with a delicious Cajun corn porridge known as maque choux. These dishes are inspired by common Native American and Cajun recipes and are a hit in my household. The convenient aspect is that all ingredients were already on hand and could be prepared in advance, making it a stress-free Thanksgiving. Dessert will be a vegan cheesecake, adorned with homemade cranberry sauce, along with a selection of pistachios and dried apricots. To wash it all down, we’ll enjoy prosecco and sparkling water.

Passing the Torch

The tradition of hosting Thanksgiving has been in my hands for 52 years. At the age of 23, I was assigned this duty from my college-aged sister-in-law, because my mother-in-law was deemed to be "getting up there" in years. She was 25 years younger than I am now. Over the years, the meal grew from a handful of people to a grand gathering of 27, but thanks to the coronavirus pandemic, it has shrunk to a cozy 2 people. This year's simplified menu is a relief, allowing me to fully embrace the joy of cooking for a small, intimate gathering and pass the torch to the next generation.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving is all about creativity, family, and comfort. Whether you're serving crab cakes or traditional turkey, finding joy in a palate-pleasing meal is the goal. Here’s to a memorable and delicious Thanksgiving, filled with innovative dishes and cherished traditions!