Why Americans Really Love Eating Turkey on Thanksgiving and Christmas
For many Americans, turkey is a beloved fixture on the dinner table during key holiday seasons—Thanksgiving and Christmas. However, it's not the only time we eat it; rather, it's served primarily as a tradition handed down through families. This article delves into the reasons behind our love for turkey, exploring its preparation, history, and cultural significance.
The Tradition and History of Turkey
The tradition of eating turkey during Thanksgiving and Christmas is deeply rooted in American history. However, many assume it's a mandatory dish foisted upon us by family members who would just as soon forget about it. In reality, while turkeys do make an appearance during these holidays, many Americans forget about them the rest of the year, except for a few health enthusiasts who force themselves into believing they actually enjoy it.
Why Turkey is Amazing When Cooked Correctly
When cooked properly, a whole roasted turkey can be nothing short of amazing. The rich flavors and moist texture make it a delightful meal, especially for large family gatherings. Unfortunately, most people only think of cooking turkey for holidays, which is not frequent enough to master the art of cooking it. When the turkey turns out poorly—often overcooked and dry—most blame the bird itself, not their poor preparation skills. This reinforces a cycle where the turkey is only made for the next holiday, ensuring poor results each time.
Is Turkey Truely a Traditional Dish?
While turkey has become a traditional dish for Thanksgiving, it's important to note that it wasn't always so. Its rise to prominence is largely due to modern breeding practices that have created large, meaty turkeys that can feed a large gathering with minimal effort. The wild turkey, from which our domesticated turkeys descend, is actually a quite intelligent bird, quite different from its domesticated counterpart. The average cost of a turkey this year is $2.08 per pound, which is on par with that of a whole chicken. Geese, which are more traditional in the UK, can be four times more expensive than a turkey.
Personal Preferences and Alternatives
As for my personal experience with turkey, I must admit that I have not enjoyed a truly delicious roasted turkey in my lifetime. Instead, I opt for duck for holidays where Americans might normally go for turkey. Turkey is our edible national bird, but scientific breeding has limited its good qualities. While one might wonder if eating turkey is truly about loving the bird or simply the extra effort in preparing side dishes for a nice presentation on the table, for many, the enjoyment lies in the holiday season and the company gathered around the dining table.
Would You Rather Eat Buzzard?
A famous joke from my junior high days claimed that if the Pilgrims had hunted bobcats instead of turkeys, we'd be eating bobcat for Thanksgiving. This highlights the unique status of turkey in American culture, often seen as an alternative to other meats that might have been more commonly available.
American Love for Turkey
Despite these jokes and the occasional poor preparation, Americans still love turkey on Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner. It's not just about the bird itself but also about the effort and celebration that go into preparing it along with the accompanying side dishes that create a beautiful and memorable presentation on the table. Whether one truly loves turkey or simply enjoys the extra effort in making it a special occasion, the holiday season is a time to come together and appreciate the dish and the moments shared with loved ones.