Hold the Glamour

Well, our Thanksgiving dinner was a success I am thrilled to report. The six hours I spent labouring over dishes and prep the day before was certainly worth it. Standing on your feet in virtually one place is no joke. I was exhausted that day, having flown in at midnight the night before – it was all systems go!

As I have learn’t, there are traditional meals that go with the traditional turkey and this was my maiden journey into the most celebrated American holiday. Everyone I know that is from America, takes this traditional holiday very seriously. They will fly, drive or train it ‘home’ for four days – where ever that may be. Or they will celebrate it with those closest to them. This is what I have observed over the years of living in the U.S. of A. Fortunately for us, we had some of our dearest friends spend the afternoon and evening with us.

Brooklyn – Our Thanksgiving table

I had some wonderful guidance from my American friends (you know who you are so thank you) and they guided me into uncharted waters of green beans, corn pudding, home-made stuffing, cranberry sauce, mashed potato and of course the bird which my darling husband Steve took care of. Martha Stewart’s recipes featured heavily on this festive day and I must say, her recipes are easy, spot on and delicious.

I can’t believe the amount of butter these Thanksgiving dishes require. I wouldn’t go through that amount in a month or two! No wonder everyone complains afterwards of overeating and over-stuffing themselves. Why would you one day or two knowingly in a year? Why wouldn’t you I hear other’s say? I personally don’t get it. It was just another yummy meal in my life. It is as always, each to their own.

Steve also bought me and took care of my lobster that you see sitting on the table (not traditional Thanksgiving fare). I don’t eat meat. I’m a pescatarian which means, I only eat seafood. I have done this since my late teenage years and it is how I like to eat and live my life.

Anyway, Steve brined our organic turkey 24 hours prior ( I knew nothing of this) and prepped it before popping it into the oven (which took four hours to cook by the way). The verdict came in from our American friends and they loved it. I was so pleased and delighted that all our effort and trouble was worth it. It was a steep learning curve for me and I like to be challenged in positive ways.

What are your thoughts about eating a turkey?

Do you prefer it over another bird or meat? If so, why?

As always, I welcome your thoughts and experiences.